Tari Buyung merupakan tarian tradisional dari Cigugur, Kabupaten Kuningan, Jawa Barat, yang mengandung makna mendalam tentang rasa syukur atas anugerah air dan hubungan harmonis antara manusia dengan alam. Namun, apresiasi generasi muda terhadap tarian ini menurun, dan representasi visualnya dinilai kurang mampu menangkap makna serta keindahannya secara utuh. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah mengeksplorasi ekspresi gerak Tari Buyung melalui fotografi seni sebagai upaya pelestarian budaya. Penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif dengan metode analisis konten terhadap dokumentasi visual dan tekstual Tari Buyung, serta wawancara dengan pakar tari, budayawan, dan seniman fotografi. Hasil analisis mengidentifikasi elemen-elemen visual dan naratif dalam representasi Tari Buyung yang ada, serta mengeksplorasi potensi fotografi seni dalam menginterpretasikan makna dan keindahan tarian secara lebih mendalam dan menarik bagi khalayak masa kini. Perancangan Coffe Table Book menjadi luaran utama penelitian ini, sehingga dapat berkontribusi dalam melestarikan Tari Buyung dan meningkatkan apresiasinya, terutama di kalangan generasi muda.

Tari Buyung is a traditional dance from Cigugur, Kuningan Regency, West Java, Indonesia, that carries deep meaning about gratitude for the gift of water and the harmonious relationship between humans and nature. However, the appreciation for this dance among the younger generation is declining, and its visual representation is perceived as not fully capturing its meaning and beauty. This research aims to explore the expression of Tari Buyung movements through art photography as an effort to preserve this culture. The study employs a qualitative approach using content analysis of visual and textual documentation of Tari Buyung, as well as interviews with dance experts, cultural observers, and photography artists. The analysis identifies visual and narrative elements in existing representations of Tari Buyung and explores the potential of art photography to interpret the dance's meaning and beauty in a more profound and engaging way for contemporary audiences. The primary output of this research is the design of a coffee table book, thereby contributing to the preservation of Tari Buyung and increasing its appreciation, especially among the younger generation.