Congratulations to Shannon Cooper, Miss Hampton University 2008-2009.  She was crowned on October 11, 2008 and will serve as an ambassador for the University for the current academic year.  The day after the pageant, we held a portrait session in Hampton to capture some promotional images.  The 2009 "Black College Queens" issue of Ebony Magazine will feature a photo from this session.  Good luck to Shannon, as she will compete for the title of Miss Virginia in the Spring 2009 pageant.

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 of Precious Perspectives 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