Jane Mack Photography

Sometimes the best portraits come from happy accidents.

When I arrived at Upper Falls Dance Academy for this year’s dance portrait sessions, one of my light diffusers was nowhere to be found. Not exactly how I planned to start the day! So I improvised—creating a makeshift Vanity Fair-inspired lighting setup and hoping for the best.

It turned out to be one of those unexpected mistakes that pays off beautifully.

I’ve had the joy of photographing this incredible dancer for three years now, and watching her grow—in both confidence and artistry—has been such a privilege. She and her sister are both amazingly talented, and every year I’m inspired by the grace and dedication they bring in front of my camera.

When I edited this portrait tonight, I knew it needed something more. So I pushed myself outside of my comfort zone—leaning into deeper tones, richer mood, and a more painterly finish than I usually create.

And honestly? I love where it led.

Sometimes the best creative moments happen when things don’t go according to plan. A missing piece of gear. A lighting setup you didn’t intend. An edit that takes an unexpected turn. Sometimes those “mistakes” become the magic.

So grateful for dancers who trust me to create something special for them.

Upper Falls Families - All galleries should be out by this weekend! Thank you for your grace and patience. You are going to adore your daughters’ portraits. 💜

At Upper Falls Dance Academy, excellence matters—and dance portraits should be the same.

Some “volume photographers” move dancers quickly through a single pose, apply batch edits, and move on.

That’s not how I work.

For every dancer I photograph, I take the time to connect with them, help them feel comfortable, and coach them through poses that highlight both their technique and their personality. Every image is then carefully hand-edited—one by one—to create portraits that feel polished, artistic, and truly special.

It takes more time.

It takes more intention.

But it allows me to do it my way—and I believe the results speak for themselves.

Dance is an art form. Your dancer’s portraits should be, too.

I’m so grateful to partner with Upper Falls Dance Academy and photograph these talented young dancers. Thank you for trusting me to preserve these moments.