dance — Blog — Jesse Hsu Photography

One of my most memorable shoots in 2015 was with Monica Hogan, a fellow Duke alum and talented dancer (www.mhdanceworks.com). Our shoot was memorable because of the different locations and poses she provided - we started out with street art in Queens, yoga poses in the park, risking our lives on slippery rocks under the bridge, warming up with jumping poses, dance poses in her studio, and then finished with some glam retro looks at a neighborhood speakeasy.

That's what lifestyle photography is all about to me: documenting the different sides and personalities of an individual in various settings.

Thanks Monica for being patient and creative. Can't wait to create with you again!

My friend Suleen radiates ebullience in any situation. Her infectious positive energy always lights up my day so when she asked if I wanted to shoot a Chicago wedding with her, I jumped at the chance. We often finish each other's sentences and know what the other person is thinking. It felt like choreographed ballet - we would move out of each other's way without saying a word and instinctively know what to shoot next. I photographed the guests sipping wine indoors as she got coverage of the guests outside playing a competitive game of cornhole.

I started the morning off by shooting the groom and his groomsmen getting ready while Suleen photographed the women. The ceremony was held at a gorgeous church while the reception was held at a nearby loft. Kate and Dan couldn't keep their eyes off of each other the whole day and they made the ultimate team in beer pong. The vibe was casual, fun, and most importantly, there was nonstop laughter in the air.

A few highlights below: