Dance photographer · Paris

Capturing the moment
when movement becomes art

Fine art prints, touring exhibitions, professional photo library.
Collaborations with Carolyn Carlson, Pina Bausch, the Paris Opera.

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Dance photography that says what words cannot

Laurent Paillier, a contemporary dance photographer for nearly 35 years, is a world reference in capturing the emotions and movements of dancers. His work, exhibited in prestigious venues such as the Théâtre National du Châtelet and the Bibliothèque Nationale de France, explores the connections between dance, photography and fine art, with a unique approach blending photojournalism and artistic creation.

With a photo library of over 60,000 images, he collaborates with world-renowned choreographers such as Carolyn Carlson and Pina Bausch, and publishes award-winning books like Danser la Peinture (Grand Prix de la Critique 2016).

His approach, at the crossroads of fine art and photojournalism, makes him a reference in contemporary dance photography, where each image tells a story between movement and emotion.

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🖼 Fine art prints Numbered limited editions, certificate of authenticity, multiple formats available. Visit the shop → 📍 Touring exhibitions Turnkey packages for libraries, conservatories and cultural centres. Educational materials included. Rent an exhibition → 📂 Pro photo library 60,000+ indexed images available for media, publishers and cultural institutions. Access the library →

« Your eyes of profound observations through the lens of imprints — the still moments of catching imagination. Merci. »

Carolyn Carlson · Choreographer · 2021

« Thank you for your photographs, so powerful. Your entire book is wonderful! »

Sabine Weiss · Humanist photographer · about Danser la Peinture

Dance Photography Projects

A selection of works exploring the connections between dance, emotion and photography.

Dancing the Painting

A danced counter-history of art, where 11 choreographers interpret 11 major artists.

The Dancer and the Child

Exploring motherhood among professional dancers.

Pina Bausch

The four elements in the latest creations of the German choreographer.

Paris Opera

A tribute to the dancers of the Paris Opera Ballet.

A Story of Water and Dance

Water as a central element in contemporary dance, through 12 photographs.

Belles de Danse

Portraits of dancers from around the world — a celebration of beauty through movement across cultures.

Carolyn Carlson

A tribute to choreographer Carolyn Carlson through poetic images.

Polynesian Dances

A photographic journey into traditional Tahitian dance, at Jean-Marie Biret's Papara Festival.

Gaze, Posture

Portraits of contemporary choreographers through their gaze and posture.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dance Photography

What defines a good dance photograph?

A good dance photograph captures emotion, movement and the decisive moment where the dancer's body tells a story. In Laurent Paillier's work, each image results from a close collaboration with choreographers and a deep understanding of dance.

How to purchase a contemporary dance art print?

You can purchase limited and numbered art prints directly from Artmajeur, The Art Cycle Gallery or Saatchi Art. Each print comes with a certificate of authenticity and is available in multiple formats.

Running a dance company or cultural institution?

Laurent Paillier offers turnkey touring exhibitions for libraries, conservatories and cultural centres, as well as professional photo library access for media and publishers. Get in touch to discuss your project.

What are Laurent Paillier's most iconic projects?

Among his most notable works:

Dancing the Painting: A danced counter-history of art, awarded the Grand Prix de la Critique 2016.
Pina Bausch: An exploration of the four elements in the German choreographer's creations.
Paris Opera: A tribute to the dancers of the Paris Opera Ballet.
Belles de Danse: Portraits of dancers from around the world.
Carolyn Carlson: A series of intimate portraits of the choreographer.

Capturing the momentwhen movement becomes art