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The Myth and the Magic

Learn more about Ashkan Roayaee, a Houston photographer known for his dramatic and mesmerizing dance images.

Photographers are our eyes into a world we can not experience for ourselves. Their work inspires us, informs us, and puts our world into a broader context. Photos, especially in the digital age, are our universal language. Although we all have hundreds of images at our fingertips and the ability to snap a picture constantly, a good photographer captures the moments we miss in our everyday lives. 

 

Through his lens, Ashkan Roayaee takes us into the world of dance, movement, strength, and artistry. Self-taught, he began taking photos in 2008 and is one of Houston's most celebrated and sought-after photographers. I asked Roayaee how he became a photographer, why he is drawn to dance images, and what is next. 

Where are you from, and how did you end up in Houston? 

I was born in Tehran, Iran, and lived there on and off until I was 16 years old when I moved to Turkey to attend University. My parents and brother moved to Houston in the early 2000s, and I moved to be with them 12 years later.

 

When did you become interested in photography? 

In my junior year in college, I was bored with pre-med classes and would find photography books in the library to give myself a break from studying. I also played volleyball in college, but got injured. This allowed me extra time to start photographing with my first film camera and learn more about photography.

 

Why did you decide to specialize in dance photography?  

The composition of a dancer is exceptional and very appealing to the eye. We can enjoy dance on stage, but breaking it down to a single moment in a position or pose is striking in itself, and I felt that it was lacking as art in Houston.

 

Do you see yourself photographing different subject matter in the future? 

Fashion is something that I am definitely interested in and that we are starting to get more requests for. Fashion is so many things, and it is all about perspective. Also, during a fashion shoot, I get to collaborate with so many other creative people before and during a shoot, making it inspiring.

 

What is one thing most people don't know about the photography process? 

Photography is not easy, and there is more to it than just point and shoot. It involves a lot of knowledge, investment, dedication, and consistency.

 

What do you want to say with your photographs, and how do you get your pictures to do that? 

I want to share an impactful moment in time. It isn't about what the photograph is saying but more about what it evokes as a feeling. I try to combine a dancer in a complimentary wardrobe that fits their unique style and capture them in flattering lighting in their best technical position.

How do you choose the poses you are going to shoot? 

We have ideas put together beforehand and know the dancers' strengths that are coming to be photographed. My team and I also produce a mood board for each dancer to reference during the photoshoot. ashkanimage.com

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