After stepping her whole life, Rajiah Johnson got to SIU and realized she needed a group that would allow her to feel comfortable doing what she loved, and she needed to be the one to start it. The summer before her sophomore year started in 2022, Johnson began organizing a team that would specialize in a form of dance characterized by its synchronized stomps, slaps, and claps in place of a backing track. Below is a photo series captured over the course of a month which features her team, High Definition Step.
The members of High Definition Step Team practice one of their routines April 18, 2024 at the SIU Student Recreation Center in Carbondale, Illinois.
President Rajiah Johnson and Vice President Diamond Bluford watch as other members practice a routine April 18, 2024 at the SIU Student Recreation Center in Carbondale, Illinois.
Aaliyah Hatter runs through a step routine during team practice March 28, 2024 at the SIU Student Center in Carbondale, Illinois.
Team members perform a step routine in combat boots during dress rehearsal April 18, 2024 at the SIU Student Recreation Center in Carbondale, Illinois.
Aaliyah Hatter hits the floor while practicing her solo April 18, 2024 at the SIU Student Recreation Center in Carbondale, Illinois.
The High Definition team leaves the SIU Student Recreation Center after their last practice before their showcase performance April 18, 2024 in Carbondale, Illinois.
Aaliyah Hatter (center) enters the SIU Student Center Auditorium with her teammates, where they will be performing their routine April 19, 2024 in Carbondale, Illinois.
Aaliyah Hatter assists teammate Caitlan Laster with her hair bow while getting ready to take the stage April 19, 2024 at the SIU Student Center in Carbondale, Illinois.
High Definition Step members (L to R) Caitlan Laster, Aaliyah Hatter, Rajiah Johnson, Diamond Bluford, and Brooklyn Dean bounce to the music during their performance April 19, 2024 at the SIU Student Center Auditorium in Carbondale, Illinois.
The ladies of High Definition shout out a step chant during their performance April 19, 2024 at the SIU Student Center Auditorium in Carbondale, Illinois.
