Dancing with Emotion

Empowerment Portrait Photography in Columbus, Ohio

Embracing Motion & Meaning

Dance-Inspired Portrait Photography in Columbus, Ohio

When Kahlan reached out to me about capturing her love for dance and art, I knew this shoot would be something truly special. Kahlan isn’t just a talented performer; she’s a friend, an artist, and an inspiring partner to a gifted magician. Our goal for the session was to create images that celebrated the beauty and discomfort in all things—reflecting not just her skills, but also her passion and complexity as an individual.

The Setting:

The Tall Pines of Walnut Park

The backdrop for this shoot was the Tall Pines area of Walnut Park in Groveport, Ohio. This serene location provided a natural stage for Kahlan’s movements, allowing her to flow freely amidst the towering pines and soft sunlight. The contrast between the dense forest and her dynamic energy brought the theme of “beauty and discomfort” to life, balancing elegance with raw emotion.

Kahlan and I have shared countless conversations over the years about life, love, and creation, so I felt deeply connected to her vision for this shoot. My goal as her photographer was to capture not just the aesthetics of her dance, but the essence of who she is: powerful, vulnerable, and utterly captivating. We focused on her movements, the shapes she created, and the intensity of her gaze.

One of my favorite moments from the session happened after we wrapped up. It was my first time meeting her partner, an insanely talented musician, and at the end of the shoot, we took a moment to enjoy a blunt together under the canopy of the pines. With impeccable timing, I was then treated to some jaw-dropping magic tricks, courtesy of Kahlan’s partner, bringing an unforgettable close to the day.

Technical Aspects of the Shoot

For this session, I used my Sony A7IV paired with a mix of lenses: the Sigma 85 Art 1.4, Sony GMaster 24-70 2.8, and Sigma Art 35 1.4. I also incorporated Prism FX’s kaleidoscope filter, adding a touch of surrealism to the images. The focus was on shape, motion, and capturing her eyes—the windows to her creative soul.

Why Choose Me as Your Portrait Photographer in Columbus, Ohio?

I believe my strength as a portrait photographer lies in my ability to capture people the way they view themselves—or, even more importantly, the way they wish they did. My style is defined by uncompromising creative vision, 3D storytelling, and an unparalleled experience that goes beyond traditional portraiture. If you’re looking for an empowerment portrait session that captures the real, raw beauty within, I’d love to help you express your vision.