I was thrilled when my friend and fellow photographer Jeff Snyder, of Freesolo Photography and Jeff Snyder Photography, asked me to help him with a special project. A group of fire dancers he knows had asked him to take some performance photos to help with their publicity. I’ve done a lot of similar work in the past, and he flattered me by asking me to be involved. I am always looking for a reason to shoot talented fire spinners, so of course I agreed!

It took us a couple days to find an appropriate location. August in Portland means that much of the area’s grass has become dormant and can sometimes look like it will burst into flames spontaneously, let alone when someone is standing there twirling a flaming hula hoop. We decided somewhere with concrete ground would probably be our best and safest bet. Someone suggested the Burnside skate park, and it seemed like the perfect location, as long as we didn’t get in anyone’s way.

Jeff and I arrived early to scout out the best locations. There were still many skaters enjoying the skate park, so we figured it was best to find somewhere else to get the majority of our shots. Luckily, just above the park, but still underneath the Burnside Bridge, was a small loading dock that could serve as a perfect performance platform for the ladies’ talents. Our shoot was set, and we awaited the ladies.

Soon, Swirly Temple, Zoe and Ginger arrived on location in full costume, and we started setting up for the shoot. Under the Burnside Bridge, we were thankful for the great urban setting, which seemed to contrast nicely with the natural flames. Jeff and I alternated between one of us getting wider shots, a bit closer to the talent, while the other set up further back, getting more stationary shots showing more of the scene.

We took our time, making sure we got all the shots we needed of each performer in each location. Our time was spent getting group shots, individual shots, hooping shots, and even a few with Zoe spinning some poi. Once the activity died down a bit at the skate park itself, we headed down to set up for a few shots on the concrete. All of us were grateful that the skaters at the park shared their space with us for a short while so we could get some shots of the ladies spinning next to the big “Burnside” artwork.

We finished out the night’s shoot with a few taken in front of some incredible artwork just outside the park. We were amazed at the design of the wall, with its seemingly liquid flames drawn right in. Topped off (literally) with a series of buzz saws and blades lining the top of the wall, it was the perfect backdrop to finish the night.

Thank you to all the amazing talent within Swirly, Zoe, and Ginger. And a big thank you to Jeff Snyder for including me in such a fun, thrilling, and satisfying shoot! Check out the full gallery for more photos.