Benson Blake Photography » Events

Power & Purpose of Education

Benson Blake Photography — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 12:50:50 +0000

The 22nd annual MLK competition was again powerfully presented by skilled youth from across Prince William County. This year's Martin Luther King Jr. celebration took place on January 16, 2012 at Hylton Memorial Chapel in Woodbridge, Virginia. The theme for the finalists was "The Power and Purpose of Education".

Special thanks to the Prince William County Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. for sponsoring this event. The Woodbridge (VA) Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. supported the event along with the young men from it's Guide Right program. Congressman Gerald Connolly and members of the Prince William County School Board were also in attendance. Thanks to all the sponsors and participants' parents who helped prepare the students for this competition.

Debutantes 4 Christ 2011

Benson Blake Photography — Mon, 08 Aug 2011 16:17:58 +0000

Donnella Cranford, founder of Women After God's Own Heart Inc., is the visionary of the Atlanta's Debutantes for Christ (D4C) program. The 2011 Debutantes 4 Christ event took place at Eagles Landing Country Club about 30 miles south of Atlanta, Georgia. I assisted Atlanta-based photographer Djamal Balbed with portraits for the evening while he captured the event's candid images. From the moment I entered the clubhouse, I instantly knew where portraits would be made that evening. The double staircase served well as a photography backdrop and made it easier to pose larger family groups. Congratulations to all the young ladies who participated in this year's program. Thanks to Donnella and Cathy for making Debutantes 4 Christ such a great experience for these young women after God's own heart.

Kappa Centennial Celebration

Benson Blake Photography — Thu, 14 Jul 2011 14:48:27 +0000

Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. celebrated 100 Years of Achievement this summer in Indiana where the organization was founded in 1911. This one of a kind celebration welcomed more than 15,000 Kappas to the capital city of Indianapolis. The week was filled with fraternity business sessions and a variety of social events. Among them were an awards ceremony, step show, comedy show, gospel concert, and white linen party. The comedy show was hosted by the hilarious Nephew Tommy of the Steve Harvey Morning Show. Finesse Mitchell and Cedric the Entertainer also had the audience laughing non-stop with joke after joke. Doug E. Fresh showed his beat box skills at the white linen party and demonstrated his dance "The Dougie". I was able to catch the last team to perform at the step show. They were flying high and held on to their Kanes throughout their routine. Meanwhile, in the vendor hall, Cake Man Raven spent the entire week baking and decorating a 30 foot long red velvet cake… in the shape of the Kappa Alpha Psi Coat of Arms.

Overall, it was a great time in Indianapolis. I feel blessed to have been a part of this celebration and capture moments that will last the next 100 years and beyond.

Conclave Photo Gallery
Video: Kane twirling competition
Video: Doug E. Fresh performing "The Dougie"
Video: Step team performance

Doug E. Fresh performing at the White Linen Party

30 foot long Red velvet cake by Cake Man Raven of New York (Yes, it was GOOD!)

Several downtown street signs were changed for the centennial celebration

Photo op w/ Kappa Alpha Psi member Minister Montell Jordan

Grand Polemarch Murray, Tavis Smiley, and Kappa Foundation President Bill Croom

Audience of 3,500 at the comedy show

Benson w/ comedian Nephew Tommy

6,000 Kappas at the black tie Centennial Closed Banquet

A Mid-Summer’s Night

Benson Blake Photography — Mon, 20 Jun 2011 14:29:40 +0000

Just Luv Entertainment has done it again with another evening of good music, food, comedy and fun. Just Luv's latest event, A Black & White Mid-Summer's Night, took place on a June evening along the Occoquan River in Woodbridge, Virginia. It was quite an occasion, with everyone wearing black and/or white attire. Stacey Carver's comedy performance kept everyone in stitches, and William "Smooth" Wardlaw provided the music for the evening, singing some Luther Vandross and other hits. Thanks again to Ms. Bernice (catering) and the Harbour View staff for hosting this Just Luv Productions event.

Drama Kids 2011

Benson Blake Photography — Wed, 08 Jun 2011 11:34:43 +0000

The 2011 performance season kicked off on May 14th, with three performances in Woodbridge, Haymarket, and Fredericksburg (Virginia). Students from Drama Kids International performed their well-rehearsed lines in front of an audience of family and friends. The plays were spread out this year between two weekends and held in local venues with great lighting. Well, at least I noticed the lighting, since my goal was to capture each performance without using flash. This is a great program for kids to strengthen their public speaking and develop other valuable life skills. Many kids returned from the previous year… some of them completing their fourth year in the Drama Kids program. Thanks to the program director, Angela Myers, and all of the dedicated instructors for all they do for their community.

Tea Rose Cotillion 2011

Benson Blake Photography — Wed, 25 May 2011 17:47:01 +0000

The Ivy Foundation of Washington hosted its biannual Tea Rose Cotillion this Spring. The event took place at the Hyatt Regency Bethesda in the presence of the ten debutantes' closest family and friends. The theme was "Cultivated PEARLS: Presenting Extraordinary and Refined Ladies to Society". The evening began with an formal group portrait of the young ladies and their escorts. After their formal introductions and a curtsey to greet their parents, the program continued with several dance routines with their dads and the escorts. The Rose Petals (in pink) performed a special routine called "Scented Memories". It symbolized them growing up and becoming the debutantes.

As with all events, it takes a lot of behind the scenes work to help everything run smoothly. I'd like to thank the cotillion co-chairs and committee for their efforts preparing for this event. Also, thanks to Donnamaria for backing me up with additional photography coverage. Congratulations to Candace, Miss Tea Rose 2011!

Evolution of Positive Image

Benson Blake Photography — Mon, 28 Feb 2011 14:36:57 +0000

The Exposure Group (African American Photographers Association) was founded in 1978 under the name Positive Image. On February 20th, the group celebrated Black History Month with a special program honoring its founding members. This event, "1978 Evolution of Positive Image", was hosted by The Historical Society of Washington DC. This afternoon program highlighted the original members' contributions to the art of photography, and their positive images captured of the African-American community.

Each photographer presented about ten of their favorite images, spoke about their thoughts behind its creation and the impact each image had on its viewers at that moment in time. A panel discussion followed, where members of the audience had the opportunity to ask questions of the photographers. One of the questions was regarding the scariest situation they've found themselves in throughout their photography careers. Sharon Farmer replied, describing a photo assignment where she climbed a water tower (3 hours roundtrip) to capture the image she needed… not because she was asked, but because that unique angle was the only one that would effectively tell the complete story. Sharon would later become Director of White House Photography, and assigned to then President Bill Clinton. She was the first African American and woman to hold this position.

Thanks to Exposure Group member Danita Delaney for bringing her vision to reality with this program. Also, thanks to video producer Don Baker and fellow production staff members for your commitment to this photography organization.

Marvin T. Jones signing his book "Carolina Genesis"

Founding members (left to right): Milton Williams, Roy Lewis, Marvin T. Jones, Gene Young,
Marisa Nixon, Vernard R. Gray, Sharon Farmer, Edgar Thompson

This is why everyone's looking in a different direction. :o)
Photo by Milton Williams

For more information about the Exposure Group, visit www.exposuregroup.org. More event photos are available on the Exposure Group's Facebook photo gallery.

February Night to Remember

Benson Blake Photography — Fri, 18 Feb 2011 15:15:57 +0000

aDuring Valentine's Day weekend, I photographed the event "A February Night to Remember" in Woodbridge VA. Just Luv Productions hosted their premiere event at Harbour View, a waterfront venue along the Occoquan River. The evening included music by the E&ME Band, poetry, dinner, and a hilarious stand-up performance by comedian Stacey Carver. Benson Blake Photography created portraits throughout the night as a momento for many of the 200+ attendees. Thanks to Ms. Bernice and crew for catering the event… the sweet tea was SO good! I'd also like to thank Marcia at Just Luv Productions and the Harbour View event staff for your great support of the vendors and guests. Here are some moments from that February night…

Poet SheSeven

Poet Rasheed Copeland

Marcia of Just Luv Productions & emcee/poet Simply Tee

Caricature Artist Dana V. from About Faces Entertainment

Comedian Stacey Carver

The E&ME Band performing

Kappa Founders Day 2011

Benson Blake Photography — Mon, 31 Jan 2011 23:11:15 +0000

Happy 100th to all my fellow brothers of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. This year marks the 100th year of the fraternity, which was founded on January 5th 1911. During the month of January, the fraternity celebrated its Founders Day with a national celebration in Philadelphia PA, and numerous chapter celebrations all over the world. The Woodbridge (VA) Alumni Chapter celebrated with a special occasion honoring our organization's founders. The national Founders Day in Philadelphia included a number of activities, such as a formal banquet and a tour of the International Headquarters in Philadelphia. Here are some images that were captured at both events.

Founder's Day Celebration in Woodbridge, VA

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National Founders Day in Philadelphia, PA

Founders Day Cake by Desserts by Dana

DeMarco Morgan, emcee for the 2011 National Founders Day banquet

Voices of Character & Courage

Benson Blake Photography — Wed, 19 Jan 2011 13:45:14 +0000

On January 17th, I had the pleasure of photographing an MLK Youth Oratorical Contest at Hylton Memorial Chapel (Woodbridge, VA). The theme of this year's program was "Voices of Character and Courage." Three high school and three middle school finalists took the stage one-by-one to present their polished speeches before hundreds of people in the audience. These were some really impressive young people, to have the confidence and smooth delivery of such powerful messages.

This annual event was sponsored by Prince William County Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. The Woodbridge (VA) Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. also supported the event along with the young men from it's Guide Right program. Congressman Gerald Connolly and members of the Prince William County School Board were also in attendance. Thanks to all the sponsors and participants' parents who helped make this event a success.

View the photo gallery

Drama Kids 2010

Benson Blake Photography — Wed, 09 Jun 2010 15:28:37 +0000

In May, Drama Kids International put on their annual Spring performances in Fredericksburg, Virginia. The stage was set at Walker-Grant Middle School for the kids to act out the parts they've spent weeks learning. Similar to last year, all three age groups performed their own play, ranging from 5 to 15 years old. Each student gets a speaking role, which helps them to develop their confidence and public speaking skills. With all the various costumes, it was fun to see how the students got into their characters… especially the wolves. Thanks to Angela and all who helped keep the day running smoothly.

Nupe Madness 2010

Benson Blake Photography — Mon, 07 Jun 2010 12:23:48 +0000

On May 15, 2010, the Woodbridge (VA) Alumni chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc hosted their annual Nupe Madness 5 on 5 basketball tournament. The event was held at Gar-field High School in Woodbridge, Virginia. Alpha Phi Alpha and Omega Psi Phi fraternities also had teams represented in this year's tournament. Congratulations to the Alpha Phi Alpha team for their win. Thanks to Jeremy and all the brothers of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. for organizing such a great Nupe Madness event. Also, a big thanks to my assistant Alfred for helping out with the candids.

View the photo gallery

Obama Speaks at HU 2010

Benson Blake Photography — Mon, 10 May 2010 12:59:48 +0000

On Sunday May 9th, Hampton University's 2010 commencement exercises got off to a memorable start. President Barack Obama delivered the Mother's Day commencement address at HU in front of 1,072 graduates and a crowd of about 12,000 relatives and friends. The speech was also broadcast live on several TV networks nationwide. I had the honor of being one of the photographers present to capture images of this presidential moment. Special thanks to Yuri and the University Relations staff at Hampton for all the hard work done to make this special occasion a success.

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Miss HU Pageant 2009

Benson Blake Photography — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 23:21:35 +0000

On Friday October 9th, Hampton University crowned their newest ambassador. Nikole Churchill was crowned Miss Hampton University 2009-2010 at the annual scholarship pageant. The event began with all 10 contestants participating in an opening number, then introducing themselves one-by-one to the judges and audience. Each of the young ladies competed in the categories of swimsuit, talent, and evening wear. The final segment of the pageant was a question & answer competition, hosted by Shannon Cooper (Miss Hampton University 2008-2009). Laisha served as production director, creating this year's theme "Beauties of the Desert Sand". Once again, the historic Ogden Hall was selected as the pageant's venue on Hampton's campus. Thanks to Dr. Maye and all others who helped make the pageant successful. Congratulations to Nikole Churchill, Miss Hampton University 2009-2010!

Drama Kids Performances

Benson Blake Photography — Fri, 22 May 2009 19:45:45 +0000

During the last couple of weekends, Drama Kids International hosted their spring performances in northern VA. The plays were held at Stonewall Middle School in Manassas VA and Walker-Grant Middle School in Fredericksburg VA. The Drama Kids program teaches acting and public speaking skills to students 3-18. Some students may choose to pursue acting as a career, while others will use these new skills at school or work.

After 9 weeks of after-school rehearsals, it was time to perform for their families and friends. The younger kids (5-8) performed the play "Paradesia", which answers the question "Can shells talk?". The 9-11 year olds performed as pirates in the play "Bold Buccaneers". The older students (12-18) performed a play about a dress rehearsal gone wrong. Thanks to Angela, Silver Sound, all the volunteers, and parents for the work you do with Drama Kids. It was amazing to see the choreography and hear the lines that these students learned… the teachers did a GREAT job. It's good to see these students being introduced to the arts at an early age. Here are some photos from the May 9th and 16th performances.

Tea Rose Cotillion 2009

Benson Blake Photography — Fri, 15 May 2009 10:42:29 +0000

The Ivy Foundation's Tea Rose Cotillion was a success! The event took place on May 3rd at the Hyatt Regency Bethesda. Thanks to all of the committee members and parents for all you've done to help this year's event run smoothly. This year's theme was "Presenting Our Pearls: The Next Generation of Hope". The young ladies Waltzed with their fathers, then did the Tango and Grand Promenade with their escorts. Several awards were presented, including best scrapbook, highest GPA, and debutante spirit. At the end, one debutante was crowned… Congratulations to LaShae, Miss Tea Rose 2009! Thanks to Precious of Precious Perspectives for assisting with candid photography. Also, thanks to the string quartet for providing music for the guests throughout the evening.

Inauguration Day 2009

Benson Blake Photography — Sat, 24 Jan 2009 06:43:49 +0000

On January 20th, I had the opportunity to be among the millions of people gathered on the National Mall for the swearing in ceremony of our 44th U.S. President, Barack Obama. My journey began at 4am on the way to the Metro station, and included hours of waiting in lines for the 11:30am inauguration. At the end of the day, it was ALL worth it. During the ceremony, I was standing in the section directly behind the seats. I must say, after being a part of the crowd and witnessing the emotion that day, I will never look at those DC monuments and Capitol building the same again. The crowd was about four or five times larger than at the Lincoln Memorial concert two days earlier. Here are some images from Inauguration day in DC. View the Gallery

Waiting in line before sunrise.

Secret Service and the back of the line for my gate.

The view from where I stood

Another view from the same place, zoomed in.

The moment of the day

People taking photos with the presidential seal

I was there!

Colin Powell waving to the crowd, while waiting to do a TV interview

The view of the Mall from the Capitol

The beginning of the parade route, view from the Capitol

People were walking on the frozen reflecting pool, some more nervous than others.

Kodak moments everywhere…

Even police officers couldn't resist.

Lots of interesting signs

Steady stream of people exiting the subway station, just after sunset.

Inaugural We Are One Concert

Benson Blake Photography — Mon, 19 Jan 2009 03:57:35 +0000

On Sunday afternoon, the city of Washington DC hosted an opening ceremony on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, to kick-off the 2009 Inaugural festivities. The star-studded event included performances by Beyonce, Mary J. Blige, Bono, Garth Brooks, Sheryl Crow, Renee Fleming, Herbie Hancock, John Legend, Shakira, Bruce Springsteen, will.i.am, and Stevie Wonder to name a few. Jamie Foxx, Martin Luther King III, Queen Latifah and Denzel Washington also made special appearances during the program. Barack Obama addressed the crowd with a speech near the end of the program. Here are some images I captured at the event. View the Gallery

Metro… The best way to get to the monuments.

The line

Overflow crowd viewing one of the many jumbotrons

Martin Luther King III speaking at the Lincoln Memorial

Mary J. Blige performing

Joe Biden speaking at the Lincoln Memorial

Obama Rally in Manassas

Benson Blake Photography — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 11:04:05 +0000

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

Miss HU Pageant 2008

Benson Blake Photography — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 15:59:32 +0000

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!