MUSC Cares Clinic 20th Anniversary Reception at Palmetto Brewing Company

This weekend, I had the honor of photographing a wonderful reception at the Palmetto Brewing Company, celebrating the 20th Anniversary of the MUSC Cares Clinic!

“The CARES Medical Clinic is committed to providing quality healthcare at no cost to the underserved populations of South Carolina while educating future healthcare professionals through our service to these patients. We aim to: (1) Offer primary care, preventive services, and referral options at no charge to uninsured adults. (2) Expose students, early in their training, to the nuances of providing patient care to a population with diverse and ever-changing healthcare needs. (3) Foster interprofessional cooperation of students, healthcare professionals, and members of the community in addressing healthcare disparities. (4) Understand community healthcare needs through service to the underserved.”

I was photographing this assignment on behalf of my good friend and amazing photographer, Gary Colemen. Gary and I work a lot of events together that are too big for one individual to cover. He was working a different reception for MUSC at the same time. We both shoot with Nikon Z9 cameras, and a diverse host of Nikkor lenses. Which makes working together not only fun, but seamless in terms of mixing equipment and editing files.

National Ethanol Conference in Nashville – Day 3

What an honor it was for me to be invited back to photograph another National Ethanol Conference!!! This year’s NEC was held in Nashville, TN. As a destination event photographer, it’s always fun to explore new cities!

Day 3 was a half-day. But it had no breaks in the schedule. From the networking breakfast right through to the final presentation in the Grand Hall, it was a very full day! After wrapping up the final panel discussion, I backed up all the remaining images, packed up my gear, and headed to the airport. Once I was safely at my gate, I had time to edit the final batch of images and get them safely uploaded to the cloud. It was a long but rewarding three days of shooting!

The National Ethanol Conference (NEC) is the most widely attended executive-level conference for the ethanol industry. Past events have welcomed industry leaders from across the United States and 20 countries. Since 1996, the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) has built this annual event into the premier ethanol conference to attend for the latest, timely information on marketing, legislative and regulatory issues facing the industry. The RFA is the leading national trade association for America’s ethanol industry, driving growth in sustainable renewable fuels and bioproducts for a better future.

National Ethanol Conference in Nashville – Day 2

What an honor it was for me to be invited back to photograph another National Ethanol Conference!!! This year’s NEC was held in Nashville, TN. As a destination event photographer, it’s always fun to explore new cities!

Day 2 was jam packed with keynote presentations, panel discussions, scholarship winners, and networking! It was a long 12-hour day of non-stop shooting, injesting, culling, editing, and uploading images. My Nikon Z9 cameras just kept on ticking…and I did my best to keep up. Eventually, we wound the day down with live music, delicious food, and fun fellowship at the Nash Bash Reception!

The National Ethanol Conference (NEC) is the most widely attended executive-level conference for the ethanol industry. Past events have welcomed industry leaders from across the United States and 20 countries. Since 1996, the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) has built this annual event into the premier ethanol conference to attend for the latest, timely information on marketing, legislative and regulatory issues facing the industry. The RFA is the leading national trade association for America’s ethanol industry, driving growth in sustainable renewable fuels and bioproducts for a better future.

National Ethanol Conference in Nashville – Day 1

What an honor it was for me to be invited back to photograph another National Ethanol Conference!!! This year’s NEC was held in Nashville, TN.  As a destination event photographer, it’s always fun to explore new cities!

Day 1 was all about the covering the various receptions. First I had a sponsor’s reception with live music at the famous Ole Red on Broadway. Then it was on to the Women’s Leadership Reception at the beautiful (and supposedly haunted) Union Station. The reception for the PAC Auction in the Grand Hyatt had some great fundraising action. And finally, the main Welcome Reception was also held at the Grand Hyatt, with three talented violinists filling the hall with beautiful music.

The National Ethanol Conference (NEC) is the most widely attended executive-level conference for the ethanol industry. Past events have welcomed industry leaders from across the United States and 20 countries. Since 1996, the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) has built this annual event into the premier ethanol conference to attend for the latest, timely information on marketing, legislative and regulatory issues facing the industry. The RFA is the leading national trade association for America’s ethanol industry, driving growth in sustainable renewable fuels and bioproducts for a better future.

USGC International Marketing Conference in Austin – Day 3

It was such a pleasure to be back again this year, photographing the US Grains Council’s annual International Marketing Conference! This year’s event took place in Austin, TX.

Day 3 was was brimming with excitement and energy. President and CEO, Ryan LeGrand, had a big announcement about the future of the USGC. Major awards were handed out in recognition of service to the council. A-Team and Sector leaders presented their recommendations to the board. Other speakers and panels rounded out the day. The meeting concluded with high hopes for a bright future ahead!

The U.S. Grains Council develops export markets for U.S. barley, corn, sorghum and related products including distiller’s dried grains with solubles (DDGS) and ethanol. With full-time presence in 28 locations, the Council operates programs in more than 50 countries and the European Union. The Council believes exports are vital to global economic development and to U.S. agriculture’s profitability.

USGC International Marketing Conference in Austin – Day 2

It was such a pleasure to be back again this year, photographing the US Grains Council’s annual International Marketing Conference!  This year’s event was held in Austin, TX.

Day 2 was a long 12-hour day of constantly shooting, editing, and uploading. I bounced around from Sector Meetings to Advisory Team Meetings, and from Headshots to networking shots.  Plus since all the international staff members were all here, we did a big group shot! Every few hours I would run to my workstation, download a batch of photos, cull, edit, and export a few selects to upload for the team to use in newsletters and social media posts. The day ended in grand fashion with an off-site event at the famous Banger’s Sausage House and Beer Garden on historic Rainey Street!

The U.S. Grains Council develops export markets for U.S. barley, corn, sorghum and related products including distiller’s dried grains with solubles (DDGS) and ethanol. With full-time presence in 28 locations, the Council operates programs in more than 50 countries and the European Union. The Council believes exports are vital to global economic development and to U.S. agriculture’s profitability.

USGC International Marketing Conference in Austin – Day 1

It was such a pleasure to be back again this year, photographing the US Grains Council’s annual International Marketing Conference!  This year’s event was held in Austin, TX.

After several “working” breakfast meetings, the conference kicked off with keynote presentations during the general session. The afternoon was filled with Advisory Team meetings. A warm Welcome Reception wrapped up the first day.

The U.S. Grains Council develops export markets for U.S. barley, corn, sorghum and related products including distiller’s dried grains with solubles (DDGS) and ethanol. With full-time presence in 28 locations, the Council operates programs in more than 50 countries and the European Union. The Council believes exports are vital to global economic development and to U.S. agriculture’s profitability.

Christa’s 50th Birthday Bash at John Holiday Alumni Center

It was an absolute pleasure to photograph Christa’s 50th Birthday Bash at The Citadel’s John Holiday Alumni Center last weekend. I first met Christa at The Citadel Foundation event earlier this year. She was so much fun and such a joy to be around. When she reached out to ask if I would photograph her birthday party, I was so excited! It was such a fun evening and I’m so glad I got to be a part of it!!!

Jacqueline and Jason’s Wedding at Blessed Sacrament Church

I had the absolute pleasure of photographing Jacqueline and Jason’s stunning wedding in Charleston last weekend. It was truly a day to remember!!! The ceremony took place at the beautiful Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, where the couple exchanged vows surrounded by their closest family and friends. The church’s timeless architecture and soft light created the perfect backdrop for this emotional event. Jacqueline was a vision of perfection in her elegant gown as she gracefully swept down the aisle. And Jason, a police officer on Isle of Palms, looked dashing in his hunter green suite as he stood by her side.

I got to know Jacqueline and Jason during their engagement shoot earlier this summer: https://chrisandcami.com/jackie-jasons-engagement-photos-at-white-point-garden/. The love between them is truly undeniable. This amazing couple met in high school. After four wonderful years together, they finally tied the knot in a celebration that radiated warmth, joy, and the kind of deep connection that only time can build. I loved capturing the little moments that spoke volumes: the way Jason’s eyes lit up when Jacqueline walked down the aisle, the quiet smiles they shared during the ceremony, and the laughter that filled the air at the reception later that evening as they mingled and danced with their guests.

Their reception at Halls Event Space was full of energy, with heartfelt toasts, delicious food, and unforgettable dancing. With Jacqueline working on Seabrook Island and Jason serving the community as a police officer, their love story is one of service, dedication, and partnership. It was such an honor to document such a meaningful day for this incredible couple!

I would especially like to thank Jason’s sister, Megan, for selecting me to be a part of Jacqueline and Jason’s amazing day. Hiring a professional photographer for her brother and now sister-in-law, was Megan’s present to them. What an incredibly thoughtful wedding gift!

Jacqueline and Jason, we wish you all the happiness in the world as you begin this new journey together!!!

Nicole & Julian’s Wedding at Daniel Island Club

Fall in Charleston is a season that always seems to bring a little extra magic to a wedding day…especially when the sweetgrass is in bloom! Nicole and Julian’s beautiful wedding at the picturesque Daniel Island Club was no exception. Nestled along the banks of the Wando River, this stunning venue served as the perfect backdrop for their amazing celebration!

The day began with soft sunlight filtering through the trees as Nicole slipped into her dress, a classic yet modern design that highlighted her natural beauty. Julian, with his calm and warm presence, awaited her at the altar, where the couple exchanged vows in a ceremony that was intimate and heartfelt. My favorite moments were when their officiant, Christy Loftin, interjected humerous anecdotes that had the couple bursting out in laughter! The lush greens of the golf course, the purple of the blooming sweetgrass, and the blue skies set the stage for unforgettable photos.

The golden hour was particularly stunning, casting a warm glow over the family and wedding party as we captured fun group photos and stunning shots of Nicole & Julian. The dramatic sunset made for an amazing backdrop for the final shots of this amazing couple before they were introduced into the reception!

The reception that followed was filled with laughter, joy, and plenty of dancing. Friends and family surrounded Nicole & Julian all night long, celebrating their love for one another as the stars began to twinkle overhead. At the end of the night, Nicole & Julian shared a quiet, intimiate dance as the new Mr. & Mrs., while guests headed outside to light up a pathway with sparklers for their exciting exit!

Capturing the moments of Nicole and Julian’s wedding was a true privilege. From quiet, tender moments to grand, joyful celebrations, every shot was a reflection of the love and happiness they shared on their special day. Theirs is a wedding I’ll always remember, set against the timeless beauty of my favorite time of year in Charleston.

CONGRATULATIONS Nicole & Julian! We wish you all the best as you begin your new journey together…

Honda True on Kiawah Island

It was a pleasure working with Lee  at Experience Holy City on Kiawah Island this week!

I was photographing all the beautiful details and decor she had created for Honda True, who was holding their annual sales meeting here on Kiawah Island. The first night was for their Welcome Reception in the Terrace Ballroom at The Sanctuary. The second night was at Mingo Point.

Honda True also had me photograph and print couple’s portraits at the Mingo Point Oyster Roast. Since it’s been raining all week, we had to get creative! I had the couples standing just underneath the covered patio area, with the marsh trees draped in Spanish Moss as the backdrop. Since it was a pitch black night, I placed 4 Flashpoint speedlights under the trees (covered in ziploc bags to protect them from the rain), with amber gels on them to give the lights an orange glow. The couples were lit with a Flashpoint eVolv 200 in an octabox. While I photographed the couples, my good friend Gary was making the prints on his DNP DS40 printer. Everyone loved the instant gratification of receiving their portrait that night!

Many thanks to Lee and Amber for making everything run so smoothly!!!

Kate & Matthews Private Plantation Wedding

On a stunning summer evening last weekend, I had the privilege of capturing the Kate and Matthew’s beautiful wedding. Their Big Day was held at a picturesque former plantation, now owned by INEOS Aromatics, along the Cooper River outside Charleston, SC. This enchanting venue, characterized by its lush landscapes and rich history, provided an exquisite backdrop that perfectly complemented the couple’s romantic vision.

The golden hour light danced through the live oaks, casting soft shadows and creating a warm, ethereal glow. Utilizing a combination of natural light and careful composition, I aimed to encapsulate the essence of their love story in each frame. The couple’s choice of classic yet elegant decor harmonized beautifully with the natural surroundings.

As the ceremony unfolded, the emotional exchanges were palpable. From heartfelt vows, to joyful laughter, I used a pair of Nikon Z9s to capture every moment as it unfolded. After the formal portraits, one of my favorite moments was sneaking away with Kate & Matthew to photograph a few portraits as the sun set over the river.

The evening culminated in a vibrant reception, full of energy and excitement! From the cake cutting to the first dance…from roasting s’mores to crazy line dancing…everyone had an absolute blast!

Every wedding is unique, and photographing Kate and Matthew’s special day reaffirmed what makes wedding photography so fulfilling to me. I absolutely LOVED everything about Kate & Matthew! They were such a joy to work with. And it was an honor to be there for them on this special occasion.

CONGRATULATIONS Kate & Matthew!!! We wish you all the best as you begin your new journey together…