USGBC 23rd International Marketing Conference – Welcome to Panama

I had the incredible opportunity to photograph the 23rd International Marketing Conference for the US Grains and Bioproducts Council (USGBC), held in the beautiful and culturally dynamic country of Panama.

After the first big day, highlighted by keynote presentations by U.S. Ambassador to the Republic of Panama, Kevin Marino Cabrera, and Panama Canal Authority Administrator, Ricaurte Vasquez Morales, everyone was treated to a fabulous Welcome to Panama Dinner Experience! Busses whisked attendees away from the Panama Hilton Hotel, and dropped the off at the Panama Cruise Terminal. The Panama Cruise Terminal is a modern facility situated on the Amador Causeway (Perico Island) at the Pacific entrance of the Panama Canal, not far from Bridge of the Americas and the Miraflores Locks. Serving as the primary cruise port for Panama City, it features two berths capable of handling large ships, offering amenities like duty-free shopping, Wi-Fi, and easy access to city attractions.

To document the event, I worked with two Nikon Z9 bodies—one paired with the Nikkor Z 24-70mm f/2.8 II and the other with the Nikkor Z 70-180mm f/2.8. I used a Godox V480 flash on each camera, bouncing the light when possible, to create nicely blended light on the subject that complimented the venue. This setup allowed me to move seamlessly between intimate moments and grand perspectives, capturing the full story of the exciting evening!

USGBC 23rd International Marketing Conference in Panama – Headshots

While photographing the 23rd International Marketing Conference for the US Grains and Bioproducts Council (USGBC), held at the stunning Hilton Panama overlooking the Panama City Harbor, I had the pleasure of creating headshots for new staff members.

I set up a makeshift studio in one of the conference rooms so that individuals could stop in when they had a break in their schedules. Lighting consisted of two Godox AD200 flashes for main and fill lights, plus a Godox V480 as a background separation light. I shot with a Nikon Z9 with Nikkor Z 70-200 f2.8.

The best part was when I was photographing Reese’s headshots and suddenly the window cleaner appeared outside the glass in the middle of our session!

USGBC 23rd International Marketing Conference in Panama – Day 1

I had the incredible opportunity to photograph the 23rd International Marketing Conference for the US Grains and Bioproducts Council (USGBC), held at the stunning Hilton Panama overlooking the Panama City Harbor. With its sweeping waterfront views and vibrant international energy, the venue provided the perfect backdrop for a day filled with connection, collaboration, and major milestones.

The day began with extensive networking and a series of Advisory Team Meetings, where industry leaders from around the world gathered to exchange ideas and strengthen partnerships. There’s always something special about capturing those candid conversations—the handshakes, the laughter, and the focused discussions that drive real progress behind the scenes.

The General Session was packed with highlights. Keynote presentations were delivered by U.S. Ambassador to the Republic of Panama, Kevin Marino Cabrera, and Panama Canal Authority Administrator, Ricaurte Vasquez Morales. Both speakers offered powerful insights into trade, infrastructure, and the importance of global cooperation. A defining moment of the session was the official signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between USGBC and the Panama Canal Authority—an exciting and historic occasion to witness through my lens. USGBC President and CEO, Ryan LeGrand, closed the session with thoughtful remarks that tied the day together beautifully.

To document the event, I worked with two Nikon Z9 bodies—one paired with the Nikkor Z 24-70mm f/2.8 II and the other with the Nikkor Z 70-180mm f/2.8. When I needed expansive room shots, I swapped in the Nikkor Z 14-30mm f/4. This setup allowed me to move seamlessly between intimate moments and grand perspectives, capturing the full story of an impactful day.

USGBC – Chairwoman’s Reception in Panama

I recently had the pleasure of photographing the Chairwoman’s Reception at the 23rd International Marketing Conference for the US Grains and Bioproducts Council in Panama. The reception was held at the beautiful Hilton Panama, overlooking the stunning Panama City Harbor. As the sun set over the water, the view provided an incredible backdrop for an elegant and meaningful gathering of industry leaders from around the world.

The evening honored outgoing chairwoman Verity Ulibarri, who served as the guest of honor. Ulibarri operates a family farm in Grady, New Mexico, producing sorghum, wheat, forage crops and cattle, while also working as the agribusiness relationship manager at American AgCredit. Ulibarri has served on the Council’s Board of Directors since 2020 and previously served as the chairwoman for USCP in 2020. It was clear from the warm conversations and heartfelt interactions just how much respect and appreciation the organization has for her leadership. Special remarks were also delivered by President and CEO Ryan LeGrand, whose words reflected both gratitude for the past and optimism for the future of the council.

For this event, I kept my setup streamlined and efficient. I photographed the reception with a Nikon Z9 paired with the Nikkor Z 24-120mm f/4. This versatile combination works exceptionally well for smaller events. By switching the Z9 into DX mode, the lens effectively becomes a 35-180mm range, giving me added reach without changing glass. From capturing candid moments across the room, wide group shots, as well as tighter compositions during remarks, this simple setup covers it all.

Lighting was handled with a single Godox V480 mounted on camera, bouncing the flash off the low ceiling to create soft, natural-looking light that complemented the warm ambiance of the space.

It was an honor and a pleasure to document such an important evening. And I am grateful to have been part of it!

Epic Universe – Universal Orlando Resort

Last week I had the pleasure of photographing a private event at Epic Universe in Orlando, Florida!

Universal Epic Universe is a new, technologically advanced theme park at Universal Orlando Resort that opened on May 22, 2025. It is the largest Universal park in the U.S., featuring five immersive worlds—Celestial Park, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, and Dark Universe—connected by celestial-themed, inspirational portals.

The park was shut down early so that the attendees of our event had all the rides and attractions completely to themselves for two hours. It was such a cool experience!!!

Brandy & Dan’s Beach Wedding on IOP

Capturing Brandy & Dan’s beautiful beach wedding on Isle of Palms was an absolute pleasure!!!

With 30 years of experience as a professional wedding photographer, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing countless unforgettable moments. But Brandy and Dan’s intimate beach wedding on IOP truly touched my heart. Set against the stunning backdrop of this serene barrier island, the ceremony was a perfect blend of natural beauty and heartfelt emotion. It was an intimate affair with 20 of their closest family and friends, creating a warm, loving atmosphere that felt more like a family reunion than a typical wedding.

Brandy & Dan rented a charming beach house to serve as the backdrop for their big day. I was thrilled to capture all the special moments of their ceremony on the soft, breezy sand right in front of it. The gentle waves, blue skies, and candid laughter added to the magic of the day. I loved documenting every smile, every meaningful glance, and the affectionate exchanges that made this celebration so unique. My favorite was the touching sand ceremony, where each of their lovely children blended layers of various colored sands into an amazing piece of art…much the same way that Brandy & Dan have blended their two families! Moments like these remind me why I love this profession—preserving love stories in their most genuine form.

It was an absolute joy to be part of Brandy and Dan’s beautiful beginning. I left inspired by their love, their commitment, and their unique connection that made this wedding truly special.

Mohegan Sun Casino & Resort

I had the pleasure of photographing a really cool conference at the Mohegan Sun Casino & Resort this week. The place is UNBELIEVABLE!!!

A world at play and a world to its own, Mohegan Sun was created in 1996 by the Mohegan Tribe of Connecticut. It’s one of the most amazing destinations I’ve ever stayed in…with some of New England’s finest dining, hotel accommodations, retail shopping, live entertainment and sporting events. Boasting two unique casinos, Mohegan Sun is also host to the Kids Quest/Cyber Quest family entertainment facility, two luxurious spas, world-class meeting facilities, a state-of-the-art Poker Room as well as three major entertainment venues with seating from 350 to 10,000. People from across the globe come to see live concerts with some of today’s top headliners, along with major sporting events including Mohegan Sun’s very own WNBA team, the Connecticut Sun. Every turn leads to a new adventure with the world’s largest and most spectacular indoor planetarium dome and the awe-inspiring Wombi Rock, a glowing crystal mountain made of imported stone that serves as the focal point of Casino of the Sky.

The 2-day event I photographed was a huge success, in large part to the spectacular surroundings!

Global Ethanol Summit Reception in Washington D.C.

This past week, I had the opportunity to capture the vibrant energy and key moments of the Global Ethanol Summit in Washington D.C. The conference was hosted by the US Grains & BioProducts Council at the Capital Hilton from October 19-22. As a destination event photographer, it was inspiring to document such a pivotal gathering of industry leaders, experts, and innovators in the renewable energy sector. From engaging keynote speeches to insightful panel discussions, every shot aimed to tell the story of this important trade program!

The final closing reception at the National Building Museum was the crown highlight of the event!!! Since it was created in 1980 through an act of Congress, the National Building Museum has transformed the public’s understanding of the impact of architecture, engineering, landscape architecture, construction, planning, and design. Through exhibitions, educational programs, and special events, they welcome visitors of all ages to experience stories about the built world and its power to shape our lives, our communities, and our future. For this special high-class evening, everyone arrived dressed to the nines. The great hall was decked out to match, with beautiful uplighting and delightful decorations. The evening included amazing acrobatic performances, a rousing speach from USGBC president Ryan LeGrand, and a scrumptous meal!

The GES brought together stakeholders from around the globe to discuss advancements, policies, and collaborations in ethanol production and use. Attendees from over 40 countries, including policymakers, researchers, and business leaders, shared strategies for expanding renewable fuel markets and reducing environmental impact. The dynamic atmosphere was marked by purposeful conversations and forward-thinking ideas, all captured through my lens to highlight the significance of this industry-driving event.

Photographing the Global Ethanol Summit was a rewarding experience, offering a chance to document the future of sustainable energy and industry collaboration. Many thanks to my friends and colleagues at the US Grains & BioProducts Council for trusting me to capture the story of this engaging event!

Global Ethanol Summit in Washington D.C. – Day 3

This past week, I had the opportunity to capture the vibrant energy and key moments of the Global Ethanol Summit in Washington D.C. The conference was hosted by the US Grains & BioProducts Council at the Capital Hilton from October 19-22. As a destination event photographer, it was inspiring to document such a pivotal gathering of industry leaders, experts, and innovators in the renewable energy sector. From engaging keynote speeches to insightful panel discussions, every shot aimed to tell the story of this important trade program!

The GES brought together stakeholders from around the globe to discuss advancements, policies, and collaborations in ethanol production and use. Attendees from over 40 countries, including policymakers, researchers, and business leaders, shared strategies for expanding renewable fuel markets and reducing environmental impact. The dynamic atmosphere was marked by purposeful conversations and forward-thinking ideas, all captured through my lens to highlight the significance of this industry-driving event.

Photographing the Global Ethanol Summit was a rewarding experience, offering a chance to document the future of sustainable energy and industry collaboration. Many thanks to my friends and colleagues at the US Grains & BioProducts Council for trusting me to capture the story of this engaging event!

Global Ethanol Summit in Washington D.C. – Day 2

This past week, I had the opportunity to capture the vibrant energy and key moments of the Global Ethanol Summit in Washington D.C. The conference was hosted by the US Grains & BioProducts Council at the Capital Hilton from October 19-22. As a destination event photographer, it was inspiring to document such a pivotal gathering of industry leaders, experts, and innovators in the renewable energy sector. From engaging keynote speeches to insightful panel discussions, every shot aimed to tell the story of this important trade program!

The GES brought together stakeholders from around the globe to discuss advancements, policies, and collaborations in ethanol production and use. Attendees from over 40 countries, including policymakers, researchers, and business leaders, shared strategies for expanding renewable fuel markets and reducing environmental impact. The dynamic atmosphere was marked by purposeful conversations and forward-thinking ideas, all captured through my lens to highlight the significance of this industry-driving event.

Photographing the Global Ethanol Summit was a rewarding experience, offering a chance to document the future of sustainable energy and industry collaboration. Many thanks to my friends and colleagues at the US Grains & BioProducts Council for trusting me to capture the story of this engaging event!

Global Ethanol Summit in Washington D.C. – Day 1

This past week, I had the opportunity to capture the vibrant energy and key moments of the Global Ethanol Summit in Washington D.C.

The conference was hosted by the US Grains & BioProducts Council at the Capital Hilton from October 19-22. As a destination event photographer, it was inspiring to document such a pivotal gathering of industry leaders, experts, and innovators in the renewable energy sector. From engaging keynote speeches to insightful panel discussions, every shot aimed to tell the story of this important trade program!

The GES brought together stakeholders from around the globe to discuss advancements, policies, and collaborations in ethanol production and use. Attendees from over 40 countries, including policymakers, researchers, and business leaders, shared strategies for expanding renewable fuel markets and reducing environmental impact. The dynamic atmosphere was marked by purposeful conversations and forward-thinking ideas, all captured through my lens to highlight the significance of this industry-driving event.

Photographing the Global Ethanol Summit was a rewarding experience, offering a chance to document the future of sustainable energy and industry collaboration. Many thanks to my friends and colleagues at the US Grains & BioProducts Council for trusting me to capture the story of this engaging event!

Peaceful Washington D.C.

With an upcoming assignment in D.C., I took an early morning flight to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.

Arriving at the Capital Hotel, where the conference would take place, it was way too early to check in. So I left my luggage with the bell hop, grabbed my trusty Nikon Zf, and headed out for a peaceful stroll around our nation’s capital. Following the light, I meandered over to Farragut Square, down to Lafayette Square (pausing briefly in front of the White House where a few other tourists were quietly snapping selfies), up to McPherson Square, and back to the hotel.

It was a pleasant morning. And the light was beautiful. All images shot with Nikon Zf and Nikkor Z 24-120 f4…which is my favorite “walk-around” setup.