Holiday Magic in Motion :: Photographing Dancers from Center for the Performing Arts in North Andover, MA for the Holidays
A Celebration of the Season and of Storytelling Through Dance
Every December, the halls of the Center for the Performing Arts in North Andover hum with excitement. Costumes are steamed, pointe shoes are laced, and the familiar energy of show week fills the studio. In honor of both the holiday season and CPA’s beloved annual ballet production of Not So Nutcracker, I had the joy of photographing a special series of mini session holiday photos featuring their older dancers. This is an inspiring group of pre-teens and teens who bring elegance, dedication, and pure heart to every pose. Getting the chance to capture holiday dance portraits for them was so much fun! Christmas dance mini sessions and studio ballet portraits are such a great way to celebrate teen dancers in Massachusetts!
These sessions were designed in part to celebrate the artistry of each dancer. And also to capture the unique spirit of CPA Dance’s holiday tradition. The result is a gallery filled with movement, storytelling, and the unmistakable sparkle of performance season.
Two Holiday Sets, Two Distinct Stories
To give dancers the opportunity to express different moods and characters, we worked with two beautifully styled sets, each offering its own tone and visual personality. These were the same sets I used for all of my holiday photos that year.
The Rustic Cabin & Toy Shop Set
Warm, dark, and rich with texture, this set looked like it was pulled straight from a vintage holiday storybook. Weathered wood, old fashioned toys, and soft, moody lighting created a backdrop that felt theatrical and timeless. The dancers slipped into expressive poses, soft arabesques, sculpted lines, gentle port de bras, bringing the set to life as if they were characters stepping out of a winter tale. This was perfect for rustic holiday dance portraits.
The Winter Window & Light Set
Our second scene brought a bright, airy contrast that was equally fantastic for holiday dance portraits. A faux window framed a peaceful snowy landscape, casting a soft glow that felt like early morning on a December day. This setting beautifully showcased the dancers’ crisp technique and festive costumes. The lighter tones made every gesture feel delicate and serene, perfectly complementing the dreamier moments of Not So Nutcracker.
Solo Portraits, Duos, Trios, and More
Throughout the holiday dance portraits session, each dancer had a chance to shine on their own and alongside friends. Some stepped into challenging ballet poses to highlight their training; others focused on storytelling with expressive shapes and theatrical moments. The duos and trios added a sweet behind-the-scenes feel. The shared laughs, synchronized lines, and that unmistakable camaraderie that grows only from hours spent rehearsing together.
These portraits weren’t just about documenting dance. They were about capturing confidence, growth, and the pride that comes from performing pieces they’ve practiced for months.
Show Costumes & Iconic “Not So Nutcracker” Moments
One of the highlights was seeing the dancers in their show costumes. Sequins, tulle, sparkle, and bold colors reflected the fun and whimsical personality of CPA’s Not So Nutcracker. Many of the girls recreated scenes from the production. These moments that their families and the local community have come to love year after year.
From dramatic shapes inspired by key characters to playful poses lifted right out of the choreography, these photos carry the heart of the show while giving each dancer a keepsake they can treasure for years.
A Gift for Families and for the Dancers Themselves
These sessions were more than a photo opportunity. They offered dancers a quiet moment to step into the spotlight, show what they’ve been working so hard on, and celebrate their love of performing. For parents, it’s a chance to see their child’s growth up close and captured through portraits that blend holiday nostalgia with artistry. I know that these portraits will become beloved keepsakes for all.
As CPA continues its tradition of spreading joy through dance each winter, I feel grateful to help document the magic behind the scenes. Where dedication meets imagination, and where every dancer brings her own light to the story.
Interested in photographing your own journey and creating keepsakes to treasure? Reach out now! And follow along on Pinterest and Instagram for all the Crabapple news!
