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	<title>Benson Blake Photography</title>
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	<link>http://www.bensonblake.com</link>
	<description>Portraits, Weddings and Events</description>
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		<title>George Mason Univ. Exhibit</title>
		<link>http://www.bensonblake.com/blog/archives/2755</link>
		<comments>http://www.bensonblake.com/blog/archives/2755#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 27 Jan 2012 19:48:51 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Benson Blake Photography</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Photography]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Black Bodies in Motion]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Colors of Life]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[exhibit]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Fairfax VA]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[George Mason University]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mason Hall]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[The Exposure Group]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[George Mason University, School of Art, African and African American Studies will host the photographic print exhibitions, &#34;Black Bodies in Motion&#34; and &#34;Colors of Life,&#34; the new juried exhibitions from The Exposure Group African American Photographers Association, Inc. A &#34;Meet the Artists&#34; opening reception will take place Thursday, February 16, 2012, from 3-5:30pm in Mason Hall at George Mason University, School of Art. &#34;Black Bodies in Motion&#34; and &#34;Colors of Life&#34; will showcase the photographic work of the Association members who include portrait artists, photojournalists, documentary and fine art photographers. These exhibitions celebrate culture and history; embrace communities; and explore artistic ideas and visions. These exhibitions will be on display from February 1-29, 2012. The gallery, located at 440 University Drive, Fairfax, Virginia 22030, phone (703) 993-1005, is open to the public Monday through Friday from 9 am to 5 pm. For more information, contact: George Tolbert at 202-747-4030 or vp@exposuregroup.org; or Bonita Bing at 202-747-4031 The following photographers will be featured in this exhibition: Don Baker Nicole Bates Donald Bernard Bonita F. Bing Benson Blake Sam Brown E. Carol Burns Zandra Chestnut Danita Delaney Bruce Fagin Lisa Fanning Sharon Farmer Jeff John Fearing Maurice G. Fitzgerald Simone Green Michael Gross David Hamilton Gail Hansberry Dawn Hester Daniel Hutch Richard E. Jenkins III Donnamaria Jones Marvin T. Jones Ahmad Kenya Gloria Kirk Shevry Lassiter Lillie Lewis-Garrett Barbara Manor Criss Massie Lionel Miller Otis P. Motley Jeanne Murray Franklin Edward Savwoir Michael G. Smith George Tolbert RSVP on the Facebook event page Directions to George Mason University One of my prints, A Monumental View, will be on exhibit at the George Mason show in February. I hope to see you at the opening! The Exposure Group is a membership driven, non-profit professional organization open to photographers worldwide since 1978. The mission of the organization is to enhance the skills, professionalism, and productivity of its members through information, education, demonstration, and compensation in the business of photography. The Exposure Group holds its monthly meetings at DCTV in The Historic Brooks Mansion in Washington, DC.]]></description>
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		<item>
		<title>Power &amp; Purpose of Education</title>
		<link>http://www.bensonblake.com/blog/archives/2797</link>
		<comments>http://www.bensonblake.com/blog/archives/2797#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 23 Jan 2012 12:50:50 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Benson Blake Photography</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Delta Sigma Theta]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Hylton Memorial Chapel]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kappa Alpha Psi]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[MLK Celebration]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[oratorical contest]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Woodbridge VA]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.bensonblake.com/?p=2797</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The 22nd annual MLK competition was again powerfully presented by skilled youth from across Prince William County. This year&#39;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 &#34;The Power and Purpose of Education&#34;. 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&#39;s Guide Right program.&#160; Congressman Gerald Connolly and members of the Prince William County School Board were also in attendance. Thanks to all the sponsors and participants&#39; parents who helped prepare the students for this competition.]]></description>
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		<item>
		<title>Charelia &amp; Daryl Wedding</title>
		<link>http://www.bensonblake.com/blog/archives/2696</link>
		<comments>http://www.bensonblake.com/blog/archives/2696#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 29 Nov 2011 14:08:22 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Benson Blake Photography</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Weddings]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Alexandria VA]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Fort Belvoir Community Center]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Grant Imaging]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Groveton Baptist Church]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Trinity Weddings and Events]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[wedding]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[On October 22nd, Charelia &#38; Daryl were married in Alexandria, Virginia at Groveton Baptist Church. Before the ceremony, I created some portraits and images of the groom and groomsmen getting ready. Terry of Grant Imaging was the primary photographer, providing pre-ceremony coverage of the bride, while I joined him as a second shooter for the day. Our two-photographer coverage allowed us to document the occasion from different perspectives and tell a more complete story. The reception was held at the Fort Belvoir Community Center in Alexandria, VA. I&#39;d like to give a big shout out to the catering staff&#8230; I asked about the recipe for the punch served that night, but was told it was a secret recipe. For those of you who have been there, you know how good it was. :o) Also, thanks to wedding coordinators Kimberly and LaKesha of Trinity Weddings &#38; Events, Inc. for keeping all the logistics in order.]]></description>
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		<item>
		<title>&#8220;A Sense of Place&#8221; Exhibit</title>
		<link>http://www.bensonblake.com/blog/archives/2682</link>
		<comments>http://www.bensonblake.com/blog/archives/2682#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 14 Nov 2011 13:20:46 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Benson Blake Photography</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Photography]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[A Sense of Place]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Center for Green Urbanism]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[exhibit]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[The Exposure Group]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Washington DC]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[The Center for Green Urbanism will host the travel photography exhibition, &#8220;A Sense of Place&#8221;, a new juried exhibition from The Exposure Group African American Photographers Association, Inc. The exhibition will be on display at Washington DC&#39;s Center for Green Urbanism in the Tubman-Mahan Gallery from November 14 &#8211; December 3, 2011. &#8220;A Sense of Place&#8221; will showcase the photographic work of the association members who include portrait artists, photojournalists, documentary, and fine art photographers. I will have three custom framed limited edition prints for sale and on display at this travel photography exhibit&#8230; &#34;A Monumental View&#34;, &#34;Watch Your Step&#34; and &#34;Italian Sky&#34;. Come on out to the opening reception at the Center for Green Urbanism. All of the artists will be there to answer questions and share insight into their artwork. If you&#39;re not available Friday night, you&#39;ll still have until December 3rd to check out the exhibit. &#8220;Meet the Artists&#8221; Opening Reception: Friday, November 18, 2011 from 6:30-8:30pm Free and Open to the Public The following Exposure Group members will be featured: Bonita F. Bing Benson Blake E. Carol Burns Danita Delaney Bruce Fagin Lisa A. Fanning Sharon Farmer Michael Gross Gail A. Hansberry Donnamaria R. Jones Gloria Kirk Lionel Miller Otis P. Motley Michael G. Smith &#160; &#160; Gallery Hours: Tuesday-Friday from 10am to 5 pm Saturday 11am to 4pm Closed Sunday and Monday (except for special events) The Gallery is located at: 3938 Benning Road, NE Washington, DC 20019 Phone: 202-506-3867 Google Map Directions: http://g.co/maps/wjf3r Parking is available in the lot behind the Dr. Dorothy I. Heights Library. RSVP to Facebook Event Page The Exposure Group is a membership driven, non-profit professional organization open to photographers worldwide since 1978. The mission of the organization is to enhance the skills, professionalism, and productivity of its members through information, education, demonstration, and compensation in the business of photography. The Exposure Group holds its monthly meetings at DCTV in The Historic Brooks Mansion in Washington, DC.]]></description>
		<wfw:commentRss>http://www.bensonblake.com/blog/archives/2682/feed</wfw:commentRss>
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		<item>
		<title>Lynell &amp; Brian Wedding</title>
		<link>http://www.bensonblake.com/blog/archives/2221</link>
		<comments>http://www.bensonblake.com/blog/archives/2221#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 11 Oct 2011 11:48:00 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Benson Blake Photography</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Weddings]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bethesda MD]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Donnamaria Jones Photography]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Grant Imaging]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Hyatt Regency Bethesda]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[wedding]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.bensonblake.com/blog/?p=2221</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Lynell and Brian tied the knot on August 20th at the Hyatt Regency Bethesda. The ceremony and reception were held under one roof, which helped everything flow throughout the evening. I had the pleasure of being a second shooter for another studio. Donnamaria was the primary photographer on duty, capturing the wedding party and family portraits. The two of us also captured moments during the ceremony and reception from multiple angles. Thanks to Terry of Grant Imaging for the opportunity to capture this couple&#39;s special day.]]></description>
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		<item>
		<title>JoyFest Concert 2011</title>
		<link>http://www.bensonblake.com/blog/archives/2371</link>
		<comments>http://www.bensonblake.com/blog/archives/2371#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 26 Sep 2011 15:03:54 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Benson Blake Photography</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Concerts]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[21:03]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bone Hampton]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Canton Jones]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[concert]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Doswell VA]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Fred Hammond]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[gospel music]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[JoyFest]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kings Dominion]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kingswood Amphitheatre]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kirk Franklin]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Marvin Sapp]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Premier Festivals]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sinbad]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.bensonblake.com/blog/?p=2371</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[This summer&#39;s annual JoyFest event was amazing!&#160; The Kings Dominion theme park near Richmond came alive in July, with music from some of the gospel industry&#39;s leading artists. Comedian Bone Hampton served as the emcee for the evening&#8230; humoring the crowd between performances.&#160; The concert started much earlier this year due to the extensive lineup. So it took a bit longer for the shade to cool down the outdoor venue. No one seemed to care, because the sold out crowd of 6,000+ barely left their seats throughout the evening. The group 21:03 starting around 5:00. Canton Jones continued the show with the same energy. Marvin Sapp and Fred Hammond did their thing, each singing hits and classics from their repertoire.&#160; Kirk Franklin performed the last hour and 20 minutes of the show until 11pm with hits from his 15+ year career.&#160; Thankfully, the theme park kept their funnel cake line open after the concert. :o)&#160; That was a sweet finish to a spirit-filled evening.]]></description>
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		<item>
		<title>Debutantes 4 Christ 2011</title>
		<link>http://www.bensonblake.com/blog/archives/2373</link>
		<comments>http://www.bensonblake.com/blog/archives/2373#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 08 Aug 2011 16:17:58 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Benson Blake Photography</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Atlanta GA]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[cotillion]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[debutantes]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Debutantes 4 Christ]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[formal event]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Stockbridge GA]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Women After God's Own Heart Ministry]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.bensonblake.com/blog/?p=2373</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Donnella Cranford, founder of Women After God&#39;s Own Heart Inc., is the visionary of the Atlanta&#39;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&#39;s candid images.&#160;From the moment I entered the clubhouse, I instantly knew where portraits would be made that evening.&#160; 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&#39;s program. Thanks to Donnella and Cathy for making Debutantes 4 Christ such a great experience for these young women after God&#39;s own heart.]]></description>
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		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Gallery Serengeti Exhibit</title>
		<link>http://www.bensonblake.com/blog/archives/2481</link>
		<comments>http://www.bensonblake.com/blog/archives/2481#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 04 Aug 2011 17:41:15 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Benson Blake Photography</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Photography]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Capitol Heights MD]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[exhibit]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Gallery Serengeti]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[The Exposure Group]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.bensonblake.com/blog/?p=2481</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[On July 29th, The Exposure Group (African American Photographers Association) opened its latest exhibit in Maryland. Gallery Serengeti hosted the opening reception with more than 80 framed prints. Thirty-eight members of The Exposure Group have a variety of images on display, with a common theme of travel photography. Most of the artwork is for sale, so feel free to visit the gallery until August 29, 2011. Gallery Serengeti is located at 7919 Central Ave, Capitol Heights, MD 20743 (near Central Avenue and Gentry Lane). The Exposure Group is a membership driven, non-profit professional organization open to photographers worldwide since 1978. The mission of the organization is to enhance the skills, professionalism, and productivity of its members through information, education, demonstration, and compensation in the business of photography. The Exposure Group holds its monthly meetings at DCTV in The Historic Brooks Mansion in Washington, DC.]]></description>
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		<item>
		<title>Kappa Centennial Celebration</title>
		<link>http://www.bensonblake.com/blog/archives/2345</link>
		<comments>http://www.bensonblake.com/blog/archives/2345#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 14 Jul 2011 14:48:27 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Benson Blake Photography</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Cedric the Entertainer]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[celebration]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Centennial]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Conclave]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Doug E Fresh]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Finesse Mitchell]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Indianapolis Convention Center]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Indianapolis IN]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kappa Alpha Psi]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Montell Jordan]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Nephew Tommy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Tavis Smiley]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.bensonblake.com/blog/?p=2345</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. celebrated 100 Years of Achievement this summer in Indiana where the organization was founded in 1911.&#160; 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.&#160; 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 &#34;The Dougie&#34;. 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&#8230; 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 &#34;The Dougie&#34; 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]]></description>
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		<slash:comments>1</slash:comments>
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		<item>
		<title>A Mid-Summer&#8217;s Night</title>
		<link>http://www.bensonblake.com/blog/archives/2331</link>
		<comments>http://www.bensonblake.com/blog/archives/2331#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 20 Jun 2011 14:29:40 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Benson Blake Photography</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[E&ME Band]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Harbour View]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Just Luv Productions]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[on location]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Stacey Carver]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[William Smooth Wardlaw]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Woodbridge VA]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.bensonblake.com/blog/?p=2331</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Just Luv Entertainment has done it again with another evening of good music, food, comedy and fun. Just Luv&#39;s latest event, A Black &#38; White Mid-Summer&#39;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&#39;s comedy performance kept everyone in stitches, and William &#34;Smooth&#34; 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.]]></description>
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		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Drama Kids 2011</title>
		<link>http://www.bensonblake.com/blog/archives/2247</link>
		<comments>http://www.bensonblake.com/blog/archives/2247#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 08 Jun 2011 11:34:43 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Benson Blake Photography</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Battlefield High School]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Drama Kids]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Forest Park High School]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Fredericksburg Academy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Fredericksburg VA]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Haymarket VA]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[theater]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Woodbridge VA]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.bensonblake.com/blog/?p=2247</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[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&#8230; 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.]]></description>
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		<item>
		<title>DC Memorials at Twilight</title>
		<link>http://www.bensonblake.com/blog/archives/2268</link>
		<comments>http://www.bensonblake.com/blog/archives/2268#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 30 May 2011 12:37:15 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Benson Blake Photography</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Photography]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[infrared]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Korean War Memorial]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[landscape]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lincoln Memorial]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[The Exposure Group]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Vietnam Veterans Memorial]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Washington DC]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Washington Monument]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[World War II Memorial]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.bensonblake.com/blog/?p=2268</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Here are some photos I took recently of various memorials in Washington DC. I was in good company with several other photographers from The Exposure Group. One member of the group shared with us the history of these memorials and what makes each one unique. This information allowed us to better capture the essence of each memorial. Thanks to David Hamilton for all of the great historical information. I started photographing scenes around the Tidal Basin and finished at the World War II Memorial just after sunset. Most of the images were captured using a specially converted black &#38; white infrared camera, causing the greenery to appear white. Korean War Veterans Memorial &#160; Lincoln Memorial Washington Monument &#160; Vietnam Veterans Memorial and The Three Soldiers statue World War II Memorial]]></description>
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		<slash:comments>1</slash:comments>
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		<item>
		<title>Tea Rose Cotillion 2011</title>
		<link>http://www.bensonblake.com/blog/archives/2217</link>
		<comments>http://www.bensonblake.com/blog/archives/2217#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 25 May 2011 17:47:01 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Benson Blake Photography</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Alpha Kappa Alpha-AKA]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bethesda MD]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[cotillion]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[debutantes]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Donnamaria Jones Photography]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[formal event]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Hyatt Regency Bethesda]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ivy Foundation]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.bensonblake.com/blog/?p=2217</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The Ivy Foundation of Washington hosted its biannual Tea Rose Cotillion this Spring.&#160; The event took place at the Hyatt Regency Bethesda in the presence of the ten debutantes&#39; closest family and friends.&#160; The theme was &#34;Cultivated PEARLS: Presenting Extraordinary and Refined Ladies to Society&#34;. The evening began with an formal group portrait of the young ladies and their escorts.&#160; After their formal introductions and a curtsey to greet their parents, the program continued with several dance routines with their dads and the escorts.&#160; The Rose Petals (in pink) performed a special routine called &#34;Scented Memories&#34;. 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&#39;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! &#160;]]></description>
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		<title>Soul Sanctuary Book</title>
		<link>http://www.bensonblake.com/blog/archives/2214</link>
		<comments>http://www.bensonblake.com/blog/archives/2214#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 10 May 2011 14:05:15 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Benson Blake Photography</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Photography]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Busboys and Poets]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Jason Miccolo Johnson]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Soul Sanctuary Book]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Washington DC]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.bensonblake.com/blog/?p=2214</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Photographer Jason Miccolo Johnson made a presentation last week at Busboys and Poets in DC.&#160; He spoke about the creative process behind his book &#34;Soul Sanctuary&#34; and showed some of the images that were not published in the book.&#160; The 165 photographs in &#34;Soul Sanctuary&#34; highlight elements of the African-American worship experience captured at various churches across the country. Some of the churches were very small, with challenging lighting conditions&#8230; whereas others were megachurches and had full stage lighting systems installed.&#160; All of the images were photographed in natural light, without using a flash on his camera.&#160; With all of the book&#39;s images presented in black &#38; white, it really allows the viewer to connect with the soul of each photograph. Jason Miccolo Johnson&#39;s traveling exhibit will stop next in Little Rock, Arkansas from September 1, 2011 to February 28, 2012.]]></description>
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		<title>AKA Debutante Portraits</title>
		<link>http://www.bensonblake.com/blog/archives/2090</link>
		<comments>http://www.bensonblake.com/blog/archives/2090#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 15 Apr 2011 10:42:58 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Benson Blake Photography</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Portraits]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Alpha Kappa Alpha-AKA]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bowie MD]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[cotillion]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[debutantes]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[portrait session]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Xi Zeta Omega]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.bensonblake.com/blog/?p=2090</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[In March, I had the pleasure of photographing 10 debutantes in Maryland, as part of an upcoming Tea Rose Cotillion event. The debutantes are being sponsored by the Xi Zeta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority (AKA) Inc.&#39;s Ivy Foundation.&#160; The Saturday morning session included a variety of individual and group portraits of the ladies. Special thanks to Jean-Ann for hosting us all for the portrait session. I counted at least 30 pair of shoes lined up at the door&#8230; whew! I&#39;d also like to thank the cotillion co-chairs and Ivy Foundation of Washington for continuing to host the cotillion event for these young women. For the photographers, here&#39;s the lighting setup I used&#8230; Four Alien Bee strobes, 4&#215;6&#39; reflector and seamless background paper.]]></description>
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		<item>
		<title>Evolution of Positive Image</title>
		<link>http://www.bensonblake.com/blog/archives/2043</link>
		<comments>http://www.bensonblake.com/blog/archives/2043#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 28 Feb 2011 14:36:57 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Benson Blake Photography</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Black History Month]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Historical Society of Washington DC]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Photography]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[The Exposure Group]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Washington DC]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.bensonblake.com/blog/?p=2043</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The Exposure Group (African American Photographers Association) was founded in 1978 under the name Positive Image.&#160; On February 20th, the group celebrated Black History Month with a special program honoring its founding members.&#160; This event, &#34;1978 Evolution of Positive Image&#34;, was hosted by The Historical Society of Washington DC.&#160; This afternoon program highlighted the original members&#39; 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.&#160; A panel discussion followed, where members of the audience had the opportunity to ask questions of the photographers.&#160; One of the questions was regarding the scariest situation they&#39;ve found themselves in throughout their photography careers.&#160; Sharon Farmer replied, describing a photo assignment where she climbed a water tower (3 hours roundtrip) to capture the image she needed&#8230; not because she was asked, but because that unique angle was the only one that would effectively tell the complete story.&#160; 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.&#160; 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 &#34;Carolina Genesis&#34; 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&#39;s looking in a different direction. :o) Photo by Milton Williams For more information about the Exposure Group, visit www.exposuregroup.org.&#160; More event photos are available on the Exposure Group&#39;s Facebook photo gallery.]]></description>
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		<item>
		<title>February Night to Remember</title>
		<link>http://www.bensonblake.com/blog/archives/2007</link>
		<comments>http://www.bensonblake.com/blog/archives/2007#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 18 Feb 2011 15:15:57 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Benson Blake Photography</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[About Faces Entertainment]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[E&ME Band]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Harbour View]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Just Luv Productions]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[on location]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Rasheed Copeland]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[SheSeven]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Simply Tee]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Stacey Carver]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Valentines Day]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Woodbridge VA]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.bensonblake.com/blog/?p=2007</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[aDuring Valentine&#39;s Day weekend, I photographed the event &#34;A February Night to Remember&#34; in Woodbridge VA.&#160; Just Luv Productions hosted their premiere event at Harbour View, a waterfront venue along the Occoquan River.&#160; The evening included music by the E&#38;ME Band, poetry, dinner, and a hilarious stand-up performance by comedian Stacey Carver.&#160; Benson Blake Photography created portraits throughout the night as a momento for many of the 200+ attendees.&#160; Thanks to Ms. Bernice and crew for catering the event&#8230; the sweet tea was SO good!&#160; I&#39;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.&#160; Here are some moments from that February night&#8230; Poet SheSeven Poet Rasheed Copeland Marcia of Just Luv Productions &#38; emcee/poet Simply Tee Caricature Artist Dana V. from About Faces Entertainment Comedian Stacey Carver The E&#38;ME Band performing]]></description>
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		<item>
		<title>Kappa Founders Day 2011</title>
		<link>http://www.bensonblake.com/blog/archives/1976</link>
		<comments>http://www.bensonblake.com/blog/archives/1976#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 31 Jan 2011 23:11:15 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Benson Blake Photography</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[founders day]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kappa Alpha Psi]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Philadelphia PA]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sheraton City Center]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Woodbridge VA]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.bensonblake.com/blog/?p=1976</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Happy 100th to all my fellow brothers of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.&#160; This year marks the 100th year of the fraternity, which was founded on January 5th 1911.&#160; 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.&#160; The Woodbridge (VA) Alumni Chapter celebrated with a special occasion honoring our organization&#39;s founders.&#160; 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.&#160; Here are some images that were captured at both events. Founder&#39;s Day Celebration in Woodbridge, VA ____________________________________________ National Founders Day in Philadelphia, PA Founders Day Cake by Desserts by Dana DeMarco Morgan, emcee for the 2011 National Founders Day banquet]]></description>
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		<item>
		<title>Voices of Character &amp; Courage</title>
		<link>http://www.bensonblake.com/blog/archives/1930</link>
		<comments>http://www.bensonblake.com/blog/archives/1930#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 19 Jan 2011 13:45:14 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Benson Blake Photography</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Delta Sigma Theta]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Hylton Memorial Chapel]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kappa Alpha Psi]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[oratorical contest]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Woodbridge VA]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.bensonblake.com/blog/?p=1930</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[On January 17th, I had the pleasure of photographing an MLK Youth Oratorical Contest at Hylton Memorial Chapel (Woodbridge, VA).&#160; The theme of this year&#39;s program was &#34;Voices of Character and Courage.&#34;&#160; 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.&#160; 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.&#160; The Woodbridge (VA) Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. also supported the event along with the young men from it&#39;s Guide Right program.&#160; Congressman Gerald Connolly and members of the Prince William County School Board were also in attendance. Thanks to all the sponsors and participants&#39; parents who helped make this event a success. View the photo gallery &#160; &#160;]]></description>
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		<title>How Sweet the Sound Finale</title>
		<link>http://www.bensonblake.com/blog/archives/1799</link>
		<comments>http://www.bensonblake.com/blog/archives/1799#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 18 Nov 2010 17:13:17 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Benson Blake Photography</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Concerts]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[BeBe Winans]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[CeCe Winans]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[choir]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[concert]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Donald Lawrence]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Fred Hammond]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[gospel music]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[How Sweet the Sound]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Karen Clark-Sheard]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Marvin Sapp]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Verizon Center]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Voices of Destiny]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Washington DC]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.bensonblake.com/blog/?p=1799</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[A sold out Verizon Center was host to the 2010 How Sweet the Sound Finale in Washington, DC.&#160; Music fans witnessed one of the most spirit-filled church choir competitions of the year.&#160; The participating choirs were regional finalists selected from a 14-city U.S. tour. Grammy Award-winning gospel artists Donald Lawrence and CeCe Winans hosted the event. Marvin Sapp, Karen-Clark Sheard, and Fred Hammond served as judges for the evening, offering some honest and often hilarious feedback.&#160; The audience was treated to special performances by BeBe &#38; CeCe Winans and each of the judges. All the choirs had a unique presentation style&#8230; some were very energetic with choreography, while others simply stood there and sang their hearts out.&#160; It was obvious that many hours were spent rehearsing for this one night.&#160; Big shout out to the bands that played live for each of the choirs.&#160; The behind the scenes production and stage management was amazing!&#160; Everything flowed seamlessly&#8230; the choir &#38; band transitions, stage lighting, sound, and video production.&#160; Thanks to Verizon for making this a first class production. The winning choir was &#34;Voices of Destiny&#34; from Compton, CA performing the song &#34;My Time for God&#39;s Favor (Presence of the Lord Remix)&#34;.&#160; They won $25,000, a performance at the 2011 NFL Super Bowl Gospel Celebration in Dallas, and a performance at the 2011 Stellar Awards in Nashville.&#160; During post-show interviews, choir director and pastor Michael Fisher shared a powerful testimony about how far they&#39;ve come and what this win means to the members of the choir and their community.&#160; All of the choir members are between 18 and 31, and most have never travelled outside of Compton, CA.&#160; After their first flight ever, a tour of the White House earlier in the day, and a finale win&#8230; there was hardly a dry eye in the choir.&#160; Congratulations! View the Gallery Videos: Winner: &#34;Voices of Destiny&#34; of Greater Zion Church Family (Compton, CA) Runner-Up: &#34;GFC Chorale&#34; of Greater First Church (East Chicago, IL) V CAST People&#39;s Choice Award: &#34;Greater Mount Calvary Men of Valor&#34; of Greater Mount Calvary Holy Church (Washington, DC)]]></description>
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