So Sakina and I spent a dance-filled afternoon at the old river mill in Saxapahaw, N.C.  I’ve taken 14 weeks of contemporary dance under her instruction, but it was great to get to know her better outside of the studio.  She shared a bit of her story with me, and learning about what drives her passion for dance made me appreciate even more the beauty and talent of this amazing dancer.

Sakina has always danced, but she took a long break from it when her then-boyfriend persuaded her to pursue a more lucrative career. After several of years of living without dance, she realized how much it was a part of her and decided to pursue her dreams of being a professional dancer, choreographer, and dance instructor.

Her boyfriend didn’t approve, but she chose to not let go of her passion again. So Sakina broke off their engagement and moved to Durham.  When I asked her if she regretted any of this, she told me, no- she is so happy now and wouldn’t change any of her decisions. Dance is who she is.

Stories like Sakina’s really inspire me to keep dancing, expressing myself, making, creating. It is never too late to pursue your dreams and do what you love. It doesn’t matter that I never trained as a dancer when I was younger; I can find joy in it now and really push myself to grow as a dancer and artist.

Loved these photos? Are you a dancer, musician, artist, or a maker in need of  artful portraits that convey your passion? Choose between my two packages tailored just for creative professionals!

The post Sakina | Hip-Hop Dancer | Branding Photography for Dancers appeared first on Courtney Potter Studio.

Dance has become an important part of my life since college.  I did the whole “ballet/jazz/tap” thing as a kid, dropped out to focus on gymnastics, and then dropped out of that to focus on music, then photography.  I never did pointe or more advanced dance work and always regretted it….until I discovered the fabulous Ninth Street Dance in Durham.  It’s a gem of a dance studio that offers classes to anyone- dance background or no dance background.

I’ve danced into my thirties, quite joyfully! But since I’ll probably never have the swag of a hip-hop dancer or the grace and balance as a pointe dancer, I’ll settle for collaborating with them on creating dance portraits, living vicariously through their beautiful movements.

Loved these photos? Are you a dancer, musician, artist, or a maker in need of  artful portraits that convey your passion? Choose between my two packages tailored just for creative professionals!

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