On November 3rd 2008, Senator Barack Obama made the last stop of his presidential campaign in Manassas, Virginia.  The energetic rally took place at the Prince William County Fairgrounds, with an estimated 80,000+ people in attendance.  Here are some photos I captured during the historic rally.

Governor Tim Kaine introducing Senator Obama, Mark Warner sharing the stage

Barack Obama speaking at the rally

Barack Obama, shortly after his speech

The stage view from where I stood

The crowd behind me

Obama takes one final look at the crowd before leaving

The Miss Hampton University Pageant took place on October 11th at Hampton University’s Ogden Hall. Fourteen contestants competed for the chance to be crowned the next University queen.  The theme for the event was “An Evening With The Stars”.  Thanks to Dr. Maye and Jerrica for organizing and producing such a great pageant!

Former Miss Hampton University 2001-2002, Tiffany Jenkins Leatherberry, was the honored guest for the pageant.  Tiffany had the honor of asking the contestants their questions during the on-stage question segment.  Congratulations to Shannon Cooper, Miss Hampton University 2008-2009!

On October 4th, I created portraits of the Toney family at their beautiful home in Haymarket, VA.  The family dog, Nikki, stepped in occasionally for her cameo appearance throughout the morning.  Thanks to my assistant Precious for helping out with the session!

The two boys, 10 months and 3 years, were all smiles (and silly) for the camera.  Three years ago, I photographed their youngest son when he was just 8 months old.  So, this was a great way to capture both children as infants.  Here are a few of the images…

Earlier this year, I photographed gospel artist Naomi K. Thomas for her debut CD project.  Her live CD is now available, and features some images from the session.  Portraits by Benson Blake Photography are also used throughout her new website www.naomikthomas.com. Naomi’s CD “Best Offering” is available online at CD Baby and iTunes.

www.naomikthomas.com

Congratulations to newlyweds Seidah & John, who recently married in northern VA on 8-8-08.  They enjoyed a private ceremony, then held a party on a later date for family and friends to join the celebration.  I had the pleasure of creating casual portraits for their custom-printed invitations.

For the months of August & September 2008, one of my photographs will be displayed on a billboard.  In July, I photographed the 2007 and 2008 recipients of the Virginia Outstanding Scientist award.  They both work at Hampton University, so the university has showcased their accomplishments in the form of a larger-than-life billboard.  Look for it in Hampton VA along interstate 64 West near Hampton University. Thanks to Greg for pulling over and capturing the image below.

During the month of August, Benson Blake Photography will be relocating to the Washington, DC metropolitan area. Because of new professional opportunities in the DC area, the move and the transition is a wise decision at this time. The website and BLOG will continue to grow, and will be updated regularly with new photographs from the nation’s capital. New contact information will be available via e-mail and bensonblake.com as soon as all details are finalized. Remember to periodically check out Benson’s Blog at for the latest updates.

365 days, 68 posts, and 148 comments later, Benson’s Blog has reached the one year mark… Woohoo! I hope I’ve kept you all at least somewhat entertained, and that you’ve enjoyed the images. I’ve REALLY enjoyed this whole blogging experience! :o)

Thank you to ALL who have taken time to post comments to the Blog, and those who continue to check us out online. Your feedback and encouragement is GREATLY appreciated!