This image was taken during a publicity photo shoot for Miami City Ballet. The images would be distributed to all the major newspapers and publications. The performers are Jennifer Kronenberg, Luis Serrano, and Carlos Guerra.

Before going to film, I would share Polaroids with the dancers to allow them to scrutinize their positioning as it would be captured. They would position themselves at a tiny “T” that I would tape onto the floor to guide them. It was never necessary to shoot very many images during the studio sessions.

I had assisted fashion shooters during my post-college years and brought a very simple umbrella on a boom to my work with the Ballet. I would often work alone, with no assistant, as this was shortly after ending my trajectory as a photo assistant. I had worked for good shooters and had my own training to lean on.

This image was shot at one of the studios at the Miami City Ballet, where this massive canvas background would hang suspended in a large studio. The production team would be lowered for our photo shoots.

I shot this moment out of instinct.

Often, in between shots, characters would add street clothes to their costumes to keep warm and flexible. Each of them reflected something personal and unguarded about themselves in the moment. Lightning in a bottle.

Later, Jennifer and Carlos would marry, and they often worked together with me as two Principal Soloists. I watched them fall in love through the lens.

Location: Miami City Ballet Studios, Miami Beach.
Costuming: Haydee and Maria Morales.
Public Relations: Nicolle Ugarriza.

What are the TWO most impactful features that make your image a good photograph? Don’t be shy!

Their dedication and professionalism are reflected by their intensity and calm. Dancers at this level are skilled at positioning in the correct manner; you’re seeing years of training in their manner. They had the benefit of performing during Edward Villella’s directorship. Edward was very much about heart and projection. Edward had been a principal soloist under George Balanchine at New York City Ballet.

If you could make this photo again, what would be the ONE thing you would like to do better or differently?

Nothing. The spontaneity of the moment gives this a raw yet sophisticated look. There was nothing set up about it, and all is genuine and not camera-conscious. It’s a moment amongst professional ballet dancers and a lensman who adored them.

Joe Hidalgo-Gato shared this photograph with the FRAMES Facebook Group.

Photographer

Joe Hidalgo-Gato, Miami Beach, USA

LENS CULTURE

Equipment and settings

Hasselblad
Profoto lighting