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Dance Photography Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Live Action Photographer

Dallas, TX ยท On-site

$150 - $400/day

... dance community. We capture tens of thousands of performances annually and provide studios with top-tier photography, videography, streaming, and competition software. ๐ŸŒ Learn more about usThe ...

Live Action Photographer

Philadelphia, PA ยท On-site

$150 - $400/day

... dance community. We capture tens of thousands of performances annually and provide studios with top-tier photography, videography, streaming, and competition software. ๐ŸŒ Learn more about usThe ...

... dance community. We capture tens of thousands of performances annually and provide studios with top-tier photography, videography, streaming, and competition software. ๐ŸŒ Learn more about us The ...

... dance community. We capture tens of thousands of performances annually and provide studios with top-tier photography, videography, streaming, and competition software. ๐ŸŒ Learn more about us The ...

... dance community. We capture tens of thousands of performances annually and provide studios with top-tier photography, videography, streaming, and competition software. ๐ŸŒ Learn more about us The ...

... dance community. We capture tens of thousands of performances annually and provide studios with top-tier photography, videography, streaming, and competition software. ๐ŸŒ Learn more about us The ...

... dance community. We capture tens of thousands of performances annually and provide studios with top-tier photography, videography, streaming, and competition software. ๐ŸŒ Learn more about us The ...

... dance community. We capture tens of thousands of performances annually and provide studios with top-tier photography, videography, streaming, and competition software. ๐ŸŒ Learn more about us The ...

... dance community. We capture tens of thousands of performances annually and provide studios with top-tier photography, videography, streaming, and competition software. ๐ŸŒ Learn more about us The ...

$17/hr

Background in sports, music, drama, dance, photography, crafts, sewing, or the arts is a plus. * Must enjoy working with children BCS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Auxiliary aids and services are ...

Live Action Photographer

Boston, MA ยท On-site

$150 - $400/day

... dance community. We capture tens of thousands of performances annually and provide studios with top-tier photography, videography, streaming, and competition software. ๐ŸŒ Learn more about usThe ...

Live Action Photographer

Columbus, OH ยท On-site

$150 - $400/day

... dance community. We capture tens of thousands of performances annually and provide studios with top-tier photography, videography, streaming, and competition software. ๐ŸŒ Learn more about usThe ...

Live Action Photographer

Atlanta, GA ยท On-site

$150 - $400/day

... dance community. We capture tens of thousands of performances annually and provide studios with top-tier photography, videography, streaming, and competition software. ๐ŸŒ Learn more about usThe ...

... dance community. We capture tens of thousands of performances annually and provide studios with top-tier photography, videography, streaming, and competition software. ๐ŸŒ Learn more about us The ...

... dance community. We capture tens of thousands of performances annually and provide studios with top-tier photography, videography, streaming, and competition software. ๐ŸŒ Learn more about us The ...

$17/hr

Background in sports, music, drama, dance, photography, crafts, sewing, or the arts is a plus. * Must enjoy working with children BCS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Auxiliary aids and services are ...

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Dance Photography information

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How much do dance photography jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for dance photography in the United States is $20.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $21.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Dance Photography vs Portrait Photography?

AspectDance PhotographyPortrait Photography
Required CredentialsPortfolio, photography skills, possibly certificationsPortfolio, photography skills, possibly certifications
Work EnvironmentPerformances, studios, outdoor locationsStudios, outdoor settings, client locations
Employer & Industry UsageDance companies, performers, event organizersIndividuals, corporate clients, families
Common Search & Comparison IntentDifferences, skills, career pathsTechniques, styles, career options

Dance Photography and Portrait Photography both require strong photography skills and portfolios. Dance Photography focuses on capturing movement and performances, often in dynamic environments like stages or outdoor settings. Portrait Photography emphasizes capturing individuals or groups, often in controlled studio environments or natural settings. While they share foundational skills, their environments and subject focus differ significantly, catering to different client needs and industry sectors.

What are some common challenges faced by dance photographers during live performances, and how can they be managed?

Dance photographers often face challenges such as low-light conditions, fast and unpredictable movements, and restrictions on flash usage during live performances. To manage these, photographers typically use cameras with high ISO capabilities, fast lenses, and anticipate movements by familiarizing themselves with the choreography. Building good communication with dancers and production staff can also help in planning shots and minimizing disruptions. Adaptability and technical proficiency are key to capturing dynamic, expressive images in these environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Dance Photographer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Dance Photographer, you need a solid understanding of photography techniques, lighting, and composition, often supported by formal training or a degree in photography. Mastery of professional camera equipment, photo editing software like Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop, and familiarity with fast shutter speeds are typically required. Creativity, timing, and the ability to collaborate with dancers are essential soft skills that set outstanding professionals apart. These skills ensure the capture of dynamic movement, emotion, and artistry, which are crucial for producing compelling dance imagery.

What is dance photography?

Dance photography is a specialized genre of photography focused on capturing dancers, dance performances, and movement. It requires a keen understanding of both photography techniques and the art of dance to freeze moments of motion, emotion, and artistry. Dance photographers work in studios, theaters, and on location, often collaborating closely with dancers to highlight their skill, form, and expression. The goal is to convey the energy, grace, and story of the dance through compelling images.
More about Dance Photography jobs
What cities are hiring for Dance Photography jobs? Cities with the most Dance Photography job openings:
What states have the most Dance Photography jobs? States with the most job openings for Dance Photography jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Dance Photography jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Dance Photography jobs are:
Infographic showing various Dance Photography job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 23% Full Time, 61% Part Time, 4% Temporary, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,345 per year, or $20.4 per hour.

Live Action Photographer

DanceBUG Inc.

Dallas, TX โ€ข On-site

$150 - $400/day

Contractor

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Live Action Photographer
Duration: February - May 2026
Location: Nationwide travel across the U.S.
Compensation: $150-$400 Per Day + ALL ExpensesAbout DanceBUG
DanceBUG is the industry leader in Dance Media and Software, celebrating 25 years of innovation serving the dance community.
We capture tens of thousands of performances annually and provide studios with top-tier photography, videography, streaming, and competition software.
๐ŸŒ Learn more about usThe Role
We're seeking experienced event or sports photographers to capture dynamic dance performances across the country.
You'll travel to dance competitions and recitals, work in fast-paced lighting environments, and deliver professional images that highlight each dancer's best moments.What You'll Do
  • Photograph live dance performances in low-light and stage lighting conditions
  • Adjust exposure, ISO, and white balance on the fly for optimal results
  • Manage and back up images using DanceBUG's software tools
  • Upload or ship event media as required
  • Communicate with on-site team and managers
  • Travel nationwide by car or plane to assigned events. (DanceBUG will provide car/flights)
Requirements
  • 3+ years as a Photographer (event, sports, concert, theatre, or live action)
  • Skilled with manual camera settings under changing light
  • Comfortable working long production days
  • Valid U.S. driver's license & airport proximity (within 1 hour)
  • Clear criminal background & vulnerable sector check
Equipment Needed
  • 2 professional DSLR or mirrorless bodies (Canon, Nikon, or Sony only)
  • 2 of the following lenses (F2.8 preferred): 24-70 mm, 24-105 mm, 24-120 mm, 70-200 mm
  • 4+ memory cards (โ‰ฅ 64 GB each), 2+ batteries & charger, monopod
Perks & Pay
  • ๐Ÿ’ฐ $150-$400 per day
  • All travel, accommodation (single room), and transport covered
  • ๐Ÿ•“ Travel time is paid
  • ๐ŸŽ“ Paid training (January & February 2026)
  • ๐Ÿ’ผ Equipment stipend ($700)
Key Dates
Virtual Training: 4 hours per week in January.
On-Site Training: 2 events in January & February
Priority Weekends: Feb 27-Mar 1, Mar 6-8, Mar 13-15, Mar 20-22, Mar 27-29; Apr 10-12, Apr 17-19, Apr 24-26; May 1-3, May 8-10, May 15-17
Additional events run through July for interested photographers.