Elegance in the City: A Joffrey Summer Intensive Ballerina Photoshoot with Scarlett
Scarlett's mom, Brett — a former dancer herself — reached out to me, likely after finding my Instagram or website. This was actually the first time I'd worked with Scarlett, though summer intensive season is when I do a lot of my first-time sessions; dancers travel to Chicago from all over the country, and even internationally, for the Joffrey Summer Intensive, and a good number reach out for a shoot while they're in town.
Morning Light at The Bean: A Dance of Reflection
We started early at The Bean, catching Scarlett in a red leotard with a flowing black tulle skirt, using the sculpture's reflective surface and the skyline behind her as a backdrop. One of the strongest shots from that stretch was taken from underneath The Bean looking up — Scarlett in a red leotard and black pointe shoes, on top of the concrete steps, the curve of the sculpture framing her like an arch, sunlight flaring through the gap above her. The third shot is what some ballerinas call "The Egg". It's not an official ballet technique, but it's a personal favorite of mine as it as a reserved and comforting vibe. Just next to The Bean offers a view of the street lined with tall buildings. It's one of my go to spots to use the city as the background.
City Streets and Bold Lines at the Chicago Theatre
Then we found the Chicago Theatre marquee, where she changed into a blue leotard for a series of shots working the sidewalk in front of the sign — passé turns, an attitude derrière with her arm reaching up toward the marquee lights, and a striking silhouette leaning against the theater's ironwork with the CHICAGO letters glowing behind her. This is the first time I shot at this particular location. The iconic CHICAGO sign made it clear where she is. Simple elegant poses en pointe, emphasizing her lines, complimented by the cityscape.
Working with Scarlett and Brett: A Seamless Experience
One of the things that made this shoot so enjoyable was how incredibly easy it was to work with both Scarlett and her mom, Brett. From the initial planning to the shoot day itself, Brett was supportive, organized, and completely invested in creating a positive and memorable experience for her daughter. She allowed space for creative direction while making sure Scarlett felt comfortable and confident.
Brett’s support clearly plays a vital role in Scarlett’s development—not just as a dancer, but as a grounded young artist. Watching the two of them work together with such mutual respect and affection was heartwarming. It shouldn't come as a surprise as Brett was a dancer herself. It reminded me of the essential role family plays in a dancer’s journey, especially in the early years when support systems matter most.
The most dramatic moment of the day happened under the L tracks downtown. Scarlett jumped with a long piece of flowing red maxi skirt that caught the light and motion beautifully, striped shadows from the tracks above cutting across the empty street — one of those images that only comes together with the right light, the right timing, and a dancer who commits fully to the movement. We wrapped up back near the theater, with Scarlett stretching upward under a string of marquee lights, one of the quieter, more reflective shots of the day.
Partway through the session, a few passersby actually stopped to watch and cheered as Scarlett held a pose — one of those unplanned moments that ends up meaning more than half the shots you'd planned for. It's part of why I love shooting in real city locations instead of a studio: Chicago gives you texture, light, and occasionally an audience you didn't ask for but are glad showed up.
Final Thoughts
As a chicago dance photographer, I’m always honored to meet and work with dancers like Scarlett—talented, humble, and completely immersed in their passion. This shoot was not just about photographs; it was about witnessing a young artist step more deeply into her craft and create memories that will live far beyond the summer.
To Scarlett and Brett—thank you for trusting me to be part of your Chicago story. Your energy, elegance, and kindness made this one of my most memorable sessions to date.
Ready to Book Your Summer Intensive Photoshoot in Chicago?
Interested in a similar summer intensive session, or planning a trip to Chicago for an audition or workshop? Take a look at my portfolio, or read about another Joffrey summer intensive session with Zali and Harriet. Summer tends to be my busiest stretch of the year with dancers in town for intensives, so if you know your dates, I'd plan to reach out with plenty of runway before your trip.
