The Spark of an Idea
I had the absolute pleasure of working with 15 aerialists at this year’s International Pole Convention, also known as PoleCon. If you’re not familiar, PoleCon is an annual convention held in a selected city in the US, where aerialists—including pole dancers and lyraists—and non-aerialists from all walks of life gather to celebrate and immerse themselves in the pole community. They can learn from some of their favorite pole dancers as classes are conducted throughout the weekend and watch performances in an abundance of categories, such as Black Girls Pole, Comedy, etc.
My journey with PoleCon began in 2016 when I attended my first convention. I had so much fun learning new tricks from the industry’s elite at the time, shopping at the various vendor tables, and making new friends! When I returned home, I immediately had a massage and bath afterward because one thing about PoleCon is that you don’t want to miss ANY of the action, so you will overdo it! In 2017, I took the stage and performed with my home studio at the time for Groups and Troops! I even picked up Lyra later on that year! I was fully immersed in my journey and owe a lot of it to PoleCon and the community the organizer created. So doing photoshoots this year at the event was a fully circle moment for me.
The Concept and Test Shoot
This year, I had the exciting opportunity to do photoshoots at PoleCon2024, and the process wasn’t without its challenges. Initially, I struggled to decide on a theme. I couldn’t decide if I wanted to keep it simple with a backdrop or if I wanted to be extra and have gelled lights or maybe a set. Talking with my assistant, we decided to have a test shoot day so I could get a better idea of what I wanted before it was time to start promoting the event.
For the test shoot, I pulled out some fun gels for my second light and a smoke machine! I had it lying around and thought it would be good to use. I even bought a laser machine to try but quickly abandoned that idea for the dancers’ safety.
The smoke machine, while great in theory, was not as practical. When we turned it on for the photos, it quickly filled the room and lingered, altering many of the shots. It did produce a nice dreamy effect once settled in the air, but it often obscured the dancers and their expressions, which is a big no-no for me. I was willing to try it during the actual shoot, but the venue didn’t allow smoke machines, ending that experiment. As I reviewed the shots, I realized that clean and simple, would be the best way to go and I couldn’t be happier with the results!
Here are some behind-the-scenes shots from our test shoot:
The Big Day: Session Day
The day of the actual shoot still came with some technical difficulties such as me not finding the loading dockbecause no event is perfect. My second light decided not to work that day, so I had to quickly adjust the set for a one-light setup! Thanks to my studio experience, this was a quick adjustment.
Despite that minor mishap, I met 15 dancers, each bringing their unique energy and style. Watching them pose, perform their tricks, express themselves, and have fun was incredibly rewarding. The atmosphere was filled with creativity and camaraderie. My assistant of the day was absolutely AMAZING!! She helped them with their moves ensuring they were facing the right direction to be photographed, fixed their hair and clothing straps to make it picture-perfect, and also suggested and demonstrated moves so that all I had to do was focus on getting the right angle and shot for the aerialist!
Here are some of the highlights from the aerialists during their sessions:
Despite the initial hurdles, the shoot was a resounding success. We captured stunning images that truly reflected the spirit and artistry of PoleCon2024. I am incredibly thankful for my support system who pushed me to keep going even when I thought I couldn’t. And the best part? I sold out my first PoleCon photoshoot!! Like what!! I am still on cloud nine! Selling out my first PoleCon photoshoot was an exhilarating experience, and I couldn’t be more elated.
Reflection and Gratitude
Looking back, this journey has been a testament to perseverance and passion. Never in a million years did I think I would be back in the space that restarted my movement journey, let alone photographing it! From the spark of an idea to the final creation, every moment was worth it. PoleCon2024 not only rekindled my love for the pole community but also allowed me to capture the beauty and strength of its members. Also, happy to say, I started taking classes again! I can’t wait to be more consistent like I was in 2015-2018.
Thank you to everyone who supported me along the way and here’s the hoping I get to do it all over again at next year’s events!!
Interested in a Pole Photoshoot?
Are you currently interested in a pole photoshoot of your own? I’d love to chat! I am a pole dance photographer based in Maryland. Whether you’re experienced or just starting your journey, capturing your unique style and strength is a moment you don’t want to miss!
Feel free to reach out to me to discuss your ideas and schedule a session. I look forward to working with you and creating stunning images that celebrate your passion for pole and aerial arts!
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