Published by Bloodaxe, 1989
Over a six-year period in the mid-1980s, Konttinen photographed mother-daughter relationships in North Shields. Set against the backdrop of dance studios, home life, and unexpected performance venues, Konttinen captured the changing local landscape. The book showcases the dedication, determination, and pride of these families, who, despite adversity, remained committed to their small dance communities.
Stephen Daldry later gave the book as a gift to the cast and crew of Billy Elliot (2000) to serve as a reference before filming. Many design choices and shots in the film can be seen as direct homages to the original photographs.
Images from https://www.amber-online.com/collection/step-by-step/