DANCE, ON STAGE

Working with me


I LOVE DANCE! 🩰 Former dancer, part-time dance teacher, and your go-to photo maestro for all things dance. I'm committed to helping you create stunning images for your audition submissions and social media platforms.



For solo sessions, it's a 1 on 1 experience where we dive deep into your movement. We'll start with some improv and arm-prov, building on what feels fun and organic. Warning: these sessions can be a bit of a workout, so don't forget your water bottle!


If you're booking for your dance company, I'll bring the fun to you! Let me know your backdrop and lighting preferences, and have your dancers come with pose ideas. It's a fantastic way for them to experience photographing in a professional environment and walk away with show-stopping images – as Lady Gaga might say, talented, brilliant, incredible, amazing, and totally unique!


And for those recital moments, I've been there – cleaned pieces, backstage, onstage, and in the audience. I'll set each dancer up with a pose tailored to their costume/genre and capture a group pose, all within a quick 15-minute session (per group, of course – I'm good, but not THAT good!. Let's dance into unforgettable images together!

CHICAGO ILLINOIS DANCE PHOTOGRAPHER
Person wearing bright orange fluffy sweater and blue jeans poses against red background with hand gestures.
Dynamic dancer performs energetic breakdance moves on red background in dramatic lighting and shadows.
Four close-up shots show black boots and flowing red fabric against a vibrant red studio background.
A sequence of 4 dramatic silhouette photos against a vibrant red background showing a person crouching down in motion.
Dance sequence against vibrant red backdrop showing figure in blue dress moving dynamically through multiple poses.

"Not only does she have amazing ideas when it comes to the shots, she is always willing to collaborate and bring her client's vision to life through her lens."

Abby M.

A dancer in a black outfit performs an expressive movement against a brick wall with framed artwork in a dance studio.
Ballet dancer in black dress performs graceful pose en pointe near large window in dance studio.
A silhouetted dancer in a black dress stretches gracefully against a bright window with curtains in a studio space.
Portrait of a person in a black sleeveless top resting their chin on their hand, photographed against a wooden backdrop.
Figure in an elegant black dress poses in front of a brick wall decorated with framed artwork in a minimalist setting.
testimonials
Modern dancers perform an expressive duet with graceful arm movements on a darkened stage.

Danielle

Nicole's vision, attention to detail, and care is simply everything you could ask for in a photographer. She has such a balance of collaboration and individual expression that makes working with her one of the most seamless processes I have ever experienced. There's no doubt that her experience as a dancer lends itself so flawlessly to her work behind the camera, capturing the essence of not just the art, or the subject but also the human. I would recommend her time and time again!

A person in turquoise outfit does aerial dance moves in a sequence across wooded terrain on a sunny day.

Maria

Nicole was an absolute joy to work with! As a photographer she is extremely personable and works to make her clients feel comfortable in their own skin. She is very encouraging when giving directions and truly works with the client to create stunning shots. I would definitely work with her again and highly recommend her, especially to dancers and other movement artists!

A dancer in a black dress poses dramatically near a large window with soft natural light streaming in.

Sydney

Nicole is so fun to work with and has such a bubbly and encouraging personality. She made me feel so empowered and proud of myself! I seriously almost cried seeing some of the photos and immediately just put the thought in my head of "when can I do this again!?!?!?" (in a good way!!!). I appreciate her so much!

Figure in a denim cap and white tied shirt poses artistically against gray backdrop in a studio portrait setting.
Dynamic studio shot capturing a dancer in mid-leap wearing a white button-down shirt, gray skirt and blue tights.
Woman in light blue cap, white cropped shirt and dark shorts strikes a dance pose against gray backdrop.
Person in white long-sleeved top holds blue fabric to forehead in dramatic artistic pose against grey background.
A person in blue tights and a cropped white top strikes a dynamic dance pose against a gray studio backdrop.
Dancers perform contemporary ballet movements on a dark stage illuminated by blue lighting.
Dancers in blue costumes perform a synchronized modern dance formation around a central figure on a dark stage.
Ballet dancers in white tutus perform a synchronized dance routine on a dimly lit stage during a performance.
Modern dancers in red costumes perform an expressive group movement on a dark stage.
Dancers perform an elegant contemporary piece on stage with dramatic lighting and flowing costumes.


Solo Sessions

Just me, you, and the camera. We’ll play with improv and styling ideas to create images as unique as your personality. This 1-on-1 session elevates every detail and angle, so your photos feel editorial, confident, and truly you. Contact me for more information!



Starting at

$550




Company Sessions

Showcase your dancers and your studio in the best light! I’ll capture the energy, style, and personality of your company so you have professional images for portfolios, competition teams, and promotional materials. Jump in and see more here!



Starting at

$75 per dancer



Recital Photography

From pre-show smiles to those tiny costume details, I catch the magic that parents want to remember forever and studios want to showcase. Your backstage pass right here!




Ready to strike a pose?

Lock in your date!


Event & Stage

From local showcases to dance conventions across the country, I’m there to capture every leap, turn, and behind-the-scenes smile. Whether it’s a big stage or an intimate performance, I’ll make sure every moment is preserved. Your front-row seat to moments here!




Starting at

$350/hour


Contemporary ballet dancer in black leotard performs graceful aerial jump sequence on white background.
Dancer in black leotard performs graceful contemporary movement against white background.
Contemporary dancer in black leotard performs graceful high kick pose on white background.
Contemporary dancer in black leotard performs graceful movement against white background.
Female dancer in black leotard performing a graceful jump with outstretched limbs against white background.
Athletic dancer in red top and gray pants performs dynamic lunging movements against blue studio backdrop.
Athletic dancer in black performing a graceful airborne leap against a dark blue studio background.
Dancer in turquoise leotard performs high kick split pose against dark blue studio background.
Ballet dancer in black performing graceful movements and poses against deep blue background in fluid motion sequence.
A modern dancer performs a dramatic side-tilting movement sequence against a dark blue backdrop.

faqs

Q: Where do you shoot solo sessions?

A: Here are some locations you can find in my portfolio!
Melody Farms - Vernon Hills
Independence Grove
Rosewood Beach
Evanston - Evanston has some great murals if you're looking for fun funky color backgrounds
Buckingham fountain
Millennium Park
Navy Pier
Milton Lee Olive Park
Chicago - ALL OVER! Seriously. A lot of my work in the Chicago is done by us exploring what the city has to offer! We generally pick some landmarks and work from there.
Delnor Woods Park
Fox River Railroad & Pedestrian Bridge
Milwaukee Art Museum
Big Bay Park-MKE
Swing Park Pedestrian Bridge-MKE
Your local downtown area!

Q: Do you take action shots during the show?

I absolutely do! Send me an invite to your recital and I will be there cheering on your students while capturing their greatness!!!

Q: When should we book?

A: It's common for recital clients to book 12 months out! I do not hold dates. First to sign a contract along with a retainer paid will secure their preferred dates. For solo sessions and studio companies I highly suggest booking 12-6 months ahead to ensure you get your date!!

Q: What comes next?

You can send me an email at nicole@nehamashots.com or fill out my contact form online with all the details of your event to get the ball rolling! We'll make sure your dates are available and I'll send you a guide with details about my collections and prices.

Have more Questions?