Juan Carlos Osma is a soloist with West Australian Ballet AND a talented photographer.
Last Thursday 6th July he launched an exhibition of his dance photography at Kidogo Arthouse in Fremantle W.A. with a live dance photography session. Juan Carlos answered a few questions for Dance Australia about his work below.
And if you’re wondering about the name ‘Yebo’, well, there’s a short video for that. I suggest you click on the link below and let him explain it to you himself!
1. How did you get into photography?
I got into photography when I was 7 years old. I remember looking at family photos and I was curious about the process. After my mum explained it to me, I became obsessed with cameras. I was always playing as a photographer. I reconnected with this passion during the Covid-19 lockdown and started studying photography.
2. Do you think being a professional dancer gives you special insight into taking good dance shots?
My dance practice is my greatest advantage while shooting. As professional ballet dancers we are trained to understand bodies and how they move, which angles look best for every different person and taking this into photography gives my images a unique look.
3. How did the opportunity for this exhibition come about?
I was at a friend's birthday party at Kidogo Arthouse earlier this year. I approached the owner, Joanna Robertson, to talk and show her my work, she liked it, and she invited me to exhibit in her studio space.
4. Tell me about the live dance photography session you have planned for opening night.
During the live dance photography session people will experience the most exciting steps of my creative process. Basically, it will look like a studio, I’ll have my lighting set up and two beautiful dancers will perform to some of my favourite music I’ve selected. And I’ll be taking photos. The audience will witness first-hand the magic of photographing dancers in action and find out how we create those striking images.
5. Do you think you would like photography to be your post dance career when the time comes?
Photography for me is a creative outlet. After dancing I would love to continue with photography, but maybe not as my main career. I have lots of other plans and creative ideas. Photography will always be something I’m passionate about.
For more information see www.yebophotography.com/