Your audition photograph is the first thing a panel sees, usually before you ever step into the room. Ashkan Image has photographed more than 800 audition sessions in Houston over fifteen years, and the job of the session is simple: clean lines, real technique, and images that read at a glance.
Who these sessions are for
College dance programmes, summer intensives, company auditions, agency submissions and competition portfolios. We photograph to the requirements you have been given, whether that is first arabesque, a la seconde, fifth position or a clean headshot, and then keep going into images that show who you are as an artist.
Ballet and contemporary audition photos
Ballet programmes usually ask for set positions: first arabesque, tendu à la seconde, fifth position and a clean headshot. We photograph each one for clean lines and correct placement, with feet, hands and fingers fully in frame. Contemporary submissions allow more movement, so we build images that show your range, and you watch every frame on the live-view monitor as the session happens.
What it costs
Every session starts with a one hour sitting at $190 and grows from there:
- One hour sitting fee, $190
- Final images $30 each, chosen from your own online gallery
- 30 minute extension $100, or a full extra hour $150
- Hair and makeup $250
- In-house wardrobe $45, luxury boutique wardrobe $550
- Paper backdrop $45
Every session includes the Ashkan Image team and one lighting setup, a live view of the session as it happens, music of your choice, a private online proofing gallery, and final images delivered within 72 hours. Full pricing for every session is on the sessions page.
Add a creative set
While you are already in the studio, add thirty or sixty minutes and step past technique. Flowing fabric, statement dresses from the in-house wardrobe or the luxury boutique collection, and images built for your portfolio rather than a submission form. Most dancers leave with both.
How to prepare
Bring your audition attire and arrive with hair and makeup done, or add our artist to the session. If your programme sent a photo requirements list, bring it, and we will plan the hour around it. Pack a couple of extra changes if you want range in the final set. The tips for dance audition photos on the blog cover what panels most often ask for.
Questions we get asked
How much does an audition session cost?
A one hour sitting is $190. Final images are $30 each and you pick them yourself from a private gallery, so you only pay for what you use.
How fast will I get my photos?
Within 72 hours of your selection, which is built around audition deadlines.
Can I make the session longer?
Yes. Thirty minutes more is $100, a full extra hour is $150.
Can you match my programme’s photo requirements?
Yes. Send the list before the session and the session is planned around it.
Do you offer hair, makeup and wardrobe?
Hair and makeup is $250, in-house wardrobe is $45, and the luxury boutique wardrobe is $550.
How do I book?
Online, below or on the contact page. Payment is taken before the session.
Book an audition session
Pick a date and book online at the audition session calendar, or call (346) 335-7973 if your deadline is tight and you need to talk it through. More dance work is on the dance photography page and in the portfolio.
Photographing a whole company or studio? See dance company photography.
