Give Them Movement- Omar Robles Fuji Film InstaMeet

I was on the A train headed downtown about three weeks ago when I see a post on Facebook from Omar Robles, one of my favorite dance photographers that I follow on social media. As an Official FujiFilm X-Photographer he would be hosting a "Dance InstaMeet." The first 30 photographers to sign up would have the opportunity of observing Omar photographing dancers and shoot along side him.

I'm reading this on the train and I'm freaking out- I HAVE TO BE A PART OF THIS! I notice that Omar had posted it 45 minutes earlier. "I hope the event isn't already full yet," I think to myself. Despite the spotty cell signal I had going through different subway stations, everything miraculously worked as I signed up and got accept for the InstaMeet! Wohoo!!!

Words cannot describe how excited I am to have been a part of this meet. Ever since I discovered Omar's work, I've become such a huge admirer of his. I'm constantly in awe of his use of light and shade, shapes, reflection, and perspective. He has such a distinct style, and I draw so much inspiration in my work from his images. Getting to meet Omar and learn from him at this InstaMeet was an extreme pleasure and education. If I were to name off every little piece of knowledge I gained from him that day this would be long (longer than it already is) however, I will share my favorite;

     (To paraphrase)
"Never give your dancers poses. Give them movement. When you give them a pose it creates a stagnant image, but if you think of a movement it will create the same energy and expression they project when they are performing."

It was a day I'll not soon forget.

Much thanks and gratitude to Omar, FujiFilm, and our beautiful dancing models, Eriko Sugimura and Eric Lehn.