Power, Passion & Pose: Captivating Ballet Photographs by Ken Browar and Deborah Ory at the Hunter Museum
Through September 6, 2021, the Hunter Museum of American Art showcases the mesmerizing exhibition Power, Passion & Pose: Photographs by Ken Browar and Deborah Ory. This collection features nearly 50 stunning photographs that freeze the exquisite athleticism of ballet and modern dancers mid-air, dressed in couture fashion. A true collaboration among photographers, dancers, and choreographers, it masterfully blends high fashion with the artistry of dance. In the exclusive interview below, Browar and Ory provide a behind-the-scenes look at their process.
Did you have a vision for the project from the start, or did it evolve naturally from a session with a dancer or another serendipitous moment?
Dance has always been central to my life, Deborah Ory explains. I majored in dance in college, though I pursued a different career path, and both my daughters danced from a young age. For my older daughter Sarah's 12th birthday, we themed her room around ballet. As a student at the American Ballet Theatre school, she wanted photos of the company's star dancers, but surprisingly few existed.
We contacted one of her favorites, Principal Dancer Daniil Simkin, via Facebook. He responded positively after seeing our fashion photography portfolio. Our first session with Daniil inspired us to launch the project. He connected us with other dancers and boosted our social media presence. Within months, we committed to creating a book.
These photographs are as choreographed as a dance performance. Can you describe your process?
We start by meeting dancers informally to understand their personalities and goals for the shoot. We always research them beforehand, having seen performances live or via video.
During the initial session, we experiment freely without chasing perfection. Afterward, we review images with the dancer, selecting a few promising poses or elements. We then refine them—adjusting lighting, arm positions, angles, or other details—to create exceptional images. We prioritize a handful of truly special shots that everyone loves over many mediocre ones. When magic happens, it's evident to all.
How do you pair dancers with poses? Do you select clothing first, then poses?
Each garment has its own character, mood, and movement, distinct from the dancer. While basic dancewear is simpler, fashion adds drama. We match pieces to complement the dancer's physique and style. Couture can be unpredictable, requiring practice to manipulate fabric for poses that highlight both dancer and design—like partnering with an extra performer.
How much input do dancers provide? Does their dance style shape the shoot?
Dancers are full collaborators; we select creative individuals who embrace the process. Their unique movement style and performing personality inform every image.
Are some gowns challenging for jumps and poses? Any workarounds?
We prioritize fluid garments, but exceptions occur. For instance, the stunning Marchesa gown worn by Gillian Murphy restricted leg movement, so she emphasized upper-body dynamics. Mostly, we chose pieces allowing full range.
What camera or equipment captures such precise mid-air detail?
We use a Hasselblad medium-format camera—no autofocus or motor drive, just exceptional lenses. We work deliberately, capturing jumps in a single, perfectly timed frame. This methodical collaboration yields authentic artistry.
What's the most exciting, unique, or challenging shoot so far? Any untold behind-the-scenes stories?
Challenges abound. Recreating Degas paintings with Misty Copeland demanded intricate sets for a painterly feel. Equally demanding was Meaghan Grace Hinkis in a floral dress crafted onsite by her costume-designer mother and a florist's creative director. It took hours amid wilting petals; the heavy gown limited movement, giving us mere seconds to shoot.
Visit the Hunter Museum of American Art to experience these and more in Power, Passion & Pose: Photographs by Ken Browar and Deborah Ory, on view through September 6, 2021.
