Iowa Corn Farm

While I was in Des Moines to photograph the NASCAR Iowa Corn 350 Powered by Ethanol, I had the opportunity to create some new marketing images for Iowa Corn. Getting to Joe’s farm was a beautiful scenic drive through endless fields of lush green corn. Joe and his beautiful fiance were wonderful to work with. Their passion and knowledge for farming was infectious! We had a blast and came away with a variety of great shots for Iowa Corn to use in spreading their message and promoting their product.

NASCAR Iowa Corn 350 Powered by Ethanol

Last weekend I had the honor and privilege of photographing the inaugural NASCAR Iowa Corn 350 Powered by Ethanol at the Iowa Speedway on behalf of the title sponsor, Iowa Corn!!!

The Iowa Corn 350 (currently known for sponsorship reasons as the Iowa Corn 350 Powered by Ethanol) is a NASCAR Cup Series stock car race held at Iowa Speedway in Newton, Iowa. It was NASCAR Cup Series’ first race at Iowa Speedway and first race in the state of Iowa. The Iowa Speedway is a 7⁄8-mile (1.4 km) oval short track featuring 10 degrees of banking in the frontstretch, four degrees in the backstretch, and a progressive banking system utilized from 12 to 14 degrees in the turns. It’s known as “The fastest short-track on the planet.”

After struggling earlier this year, Ryan Blaney in car #12 took home the trophy!!! Grabbing the lead on crew chief Jonathan Hassler’s two-tire call under the final caution of Sunday night’s Iowa Corn 350, Blaney led the final 88 laps of the inaugural Cup race at the 0.875-mile Iowa Speedway. In front of a large contingent of family and friends, the reigning series champion crossed the finish line 0.716 seconds ahead of runner-up William Byron, who was racing on four new tires after a pit stop under caution for Chris Buescher’s accident on Lap 260. The victory was Blaney’s first of the season and the 11th of his career. Blaney now has won at Iowa Speedway in all three NASCAR national series, having also triumphed in the Craftsman Truck Series in 2012 and the Xfinity Series in 2015.

Not only was this the first NASCAR Cup race at the Iowa Speedway, and Iowa Corn’s first year as title sponsor…it was also my first time photographing a NASCAR motorsport. I did my research, and was happy with the results. Yes, there were areas I could have been more efficient or come away with a better shot or two. But I’m pretty pleased with what I was able to capture, having never even been to a race like this!

It was a grueling day. I woke up in Charleston at 4:00 am to catch my 5:50 am flight to Des Moines. I landed at 10:30 am, picked up my rental car, and drove directly to the speedway. I started shooting at 12:00 noon and didn’t stup until 9:30 pm (minus a 30-minute break in the media center where I managed to grab a quick bite to eat and get re-hydrated. By the time I had packed up and fought the traffic back to my hotel, it was 11:30 pm. But it was 12:30 am before I had gotten all the images imported, backed up, and my head hit the pillow!

5 hours of sleep the night before
9 hours of non-stop shooting
30 pounds of camera gear carried
3,284 photos captured
20,665 steps walked

* All images captured with Nikon Z9 (x2), Nikkor 14-30Z f4, Nikkor 24-120 Z f4, Nikkor 70-200 Z f2.8 (frequently with TC1.4Z attached for a 100-300 f4 effective focal length), Nikkor 400 Z f4.5, DJI Mini 3 Pro, Sony XQD cards, and ThinkTank Speedbelt.

Kent Family on Isle of Palms

What a beautiful evening for family portraits on Isle of Palms!!!

I had so much fun meeting and photographing the Kent family at their beach house on IOP last evening! Although they were a little worried about how windy it was, there was no cause for concern. The deck behind their house was sheltered from the wind. So I took advantage of the soft open shade and photographed some “safety shots” there before we headed to the beach. That way all the ladies had a few shots with perfect hair before the wind did its thing. 🙂

I also grabbed a cool drone shot of them on their boardwalk. Then we hit the beach! We had beautiful warm “golden hour” light, a nice high tide, and interesting clouds in the sky for a gorgeous backdrop. Since the wind was blowing in a westerly direction, I faced them into the wind, letting the sun become a “rim” light, and used my off-camera speedlights as the main light. We laughed and joked and came away with a nice variety of great shots to commemorate their time together!

With their kids spread out from New York to Nashville, Al and Kay have made a fun family tradition of getting everyone together each summer to reconnect with one another. I love that!!!

Debi & Scott’s Vow Renewal Photo Shoot

As Debi and Scott began planning their destination vow renewal in Charleston, the most important part was to have all their children together for the weekend! They are a blended family, with adult kids who have sprouted roots all over the country. So to find a date that worked with everyone’s schedules was tough…but they did it!!!

To comemorate this rare occurance, they asked me to spend a couple hours with them and their family, exploring different parts of Charleston, and capturing a wide variety of photographs of everyone together!

Debi & Scott are such an amazing couple! And it was an absolute pleasure to spend time with them and their growing family. 🙂

Jackie & Jason’s Engagement Photos at White Point Garden

I am so excited about Jackie & Jason’s upcoming wedding this November!!!

We’ve been talking, emailing, and planning for a couple months now. But yesterday was the first time I’d actually met Jackie & Jason in person! We met up at White Point Garden during late afternoon Golden Hour for their Engagement Session. We had so much fun getting to know each other, capturing their love for each other, and exploring the old historic downtown area around The Battery together.

Jason is a law enforcement officer with Isle of Palms. Jackie works in hospitality with Seabrook Island. They are absolutely ADORABLE together! And I can’t wait to be there for them on their Big Day!!! 🙂

Awards Banquet for US Foods

CONGRATULATIONS to all the winners!!!

It was a pleasure capturing all the energy and excitement at the US Foods Sales Awards Banquet this weekend! I loved photographing this event last year in Charleston. And they loved the photos. So when they asked if I’d drive to Charleston to photograph this year’s program for them, how could I refuse?!?

Arriving early, I captured a few establishing shots of Savannah and Marriott Savannah Riverfront, where the gala would be held. There was a cocktail reception in the hotel’s atrium. Then it was on to the ballroom for dinner, speeches, and awards. I also photographed a few headshots and portraits for key winners. And finally everyone transitioned to drinks and dancing to close out the evening.

Everyone at US Foods…from the staff, to the attendees, and even the leadership…are so kind and friendly. I had a BLAST and can’t wait to photograph it again next year!!!

John & Shelby’s Wedding at Harborside East

As the official photographer of the Credit One Charleston Open for nearly two decades, it’s been an absolute pleasure to follow Shelby Rogers’ amazing tennis career! From starting out as a ball girl on the green clay of Charleston, to turning pro in 2009, and all of her amazing accomplishments on the courts since then, it’s been a thrilling ride. Her aggressive playing style and powerful groundstrokes contribute to her success on the court, which includes a thrilling quarterfinal run at the 2016 French Open!

I first met John the day before the 2023 Credit One Charleston Open.  He had reached out to me several weeks prior, asking if I would photograph his Surprise Proposal to Shelby!  It was so much fun getting to know him, and secretly planning that special day with him.  I could tell right away that he was an AMAZING young man, who truly wanted to make that day a special one for Shelby!  The photos from his proposal turned out wonderful:  https://chrisandcami.com/john-shelbys-surprise-proposal-at-white-point-garden/.

Last weekend was a tale of success on all fronts for this amazing couple! Shelby and John exchanged wedding vows in front of an intimate gathering of close family and friends. The picturesque charm of Charleston served as the enchanting backdrop for the union of John and Shelby, two amazing souls who are clearly meant to be together. I had the privilege of documenting their special day at the stunning Harborside East, nestled along the waterfront with the historic cityscape as a breathtaking panorama in the distance.

Earlier in the day, I met up with John and his groomsmen at the nearby Embassy Suites where they were getting ready. The air was full of excitement and anticipation as they prepared for the big day ahead. After leaving the guys to finish up, I headed over to The Cottages, where Shelby and her bridesmaids were making their final preparations. Shelby was absolutely STUNNING in her elegant gown! Eventually we all converged at the wedding venue, where Shelby & John shared a private moment of prayer and reflection together before guests started to arrive.

The processional started off with John being escorted by their adorable dog, Tilly, which brought smiles to everyones faces! But the real highlight was when Shelby started down the aisle to the acoustic resonance from her friend Brian’s guitar! She looked AMAZING…and John could scarcely contain his emotions!!! John and Shelby exchanged their vows underneath a beautiful cross, adorned with delicate blooms. The natural light streaming through the open windows highlighted the joy and emotion reflected in the couple’s eyes, making for truly authentic and heartfelt moments.

After the ceremony, family and wedding party photos ensued. Then, with the encroaching fog and waning twilight, we zipped off to capture a few romantic shots of John & Shelby down by the water. Meanwhile, guests encircled the patio in anticipation of John & Shelby returning for their First Dance as husband and wife. As the celebration shifted inside to the reception at Harborside East, the venue transformed into a haven of exuberance and joy. From the lively dance floor to to constant laughter, every moment was an opportunity to document the energy and love radiating from the newlyweds and their guests.

Photographing John and Shelby’s wedding was not just about capturing images; it was about preserving a story—a story of love, commitment, and the timeless devotion. As a witness to this unforgettable day, I am grateful to have been entrusted with the responsibility of freezing these moments in time.  It was wonderful how John & Shelby’s friends and family opened up to me, and made me feel like I was one of them. The images I captured serve as a testament to the enduring love between John and Shelby, forever etched against the backdrop of Charleston’s warmth and charm.

Many thanks to my friend Sarah Goldman for helping me cover this beautiful celebration.  And a huge shout out to Loraine of Invitation Only for helping make sure everything ran so smoothly in spite of the difficult weather.

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

Global Ethanol Summit at the National Air and Space Museum

Last week I had the distinct honor of photographing an amazing international conference in Reston, VA, just outside our nation’s capitol.

“The 2023 Global Ethanol Summit (GES) seeks to elevate bioethanol’s international visibility and ongoing successful initiatives as a viable decarbonization solution within the transportation and emerging new uses sectors.

The conference will feature senior-level officials from agriculture, environment and energy ministries from around the world to discuss environmental, human health and economic benefits of ethanol use with industry leaders, while fostering collaboration and trade.

More than 450 ministerial-level officials and senior-level industry leaders, ethanol producers and refiners from over 40 countries have been invited to attend, with the goal of engaging a broad array of international ethanol leaders about the benefits of expanding global use.”

A fabulous Wrap Party was held at the National Air and Space Museum. Attendees had freedom to roam and explore, with guides explaining the history and significance of various aircraft around the facility. Cocktails were served under the Space Shuttle in the James S. McDonnell Space Hanger. A delicious dinner followed under the shadow of the SR-71 Blackbird. Acrobats and magicians kept everyone entertained. And a fantastic celebration was had by all!

Global Ethanol Summit – Day 3

Last week I had the distinct honor of photographing an amazing international conference in Reston, VA, just outside our nation’s capitol.

“The 2023 Global Ethanol Summit (GES) seeks to elevate bioethanol’s international visibility and ongoing successful initiatives as a viable decarbonization solution within the transportation and emerging new uses sectors.

The conference will feature senior-level officials from agriculture, environment and energy ministries from around the world to discuss environmental, human health and economic benefits of ethanol use with industry leaders, while fostering collaboration and trade.

More than 450 ministerial-level officials and senior-level industry leaders, ethanol producers and refiners from over 40 countries have been invited to attend, with the goal of engaging a broad array of international ethanol leaders about the benefits of expanding global use.”

Day 3 of the conference continued the success of the previous two days. But the program was split into two tracks, allowing attendees to select which keynote presentations and discussion panels would fit their interest the best. After the networking luncheon, a historic 4 countries signed letters of intent. Closing remarks were nade bt Ryan LeGrand, President and CEO, U.S. Grains Council. And we also captured more group portraits of various countries, as well as the USGC staff.

Global Ethanol Summit – Day 2

Last week I had the distinct honor of photographing an amazing international conference in Reston, VA, just outside our nation’s capitol.

“The 2023 Global Ethanol Summit (GES) seeks to elevate bioethanol’s international visibility and ongoing successful initiatives as a viable decarbonization solution within the transportation and emerging new uses sectors.

The conference will feature senior-level officials from agriculture, environment and energy ministries from around the world to discuss environmental, human health and economic benefits of ethanol use with industry leaders, while fostering collaboration and trade.

More than 450 ministerial-level officials and senior-level industry leaders, ethanol producers and refiners from over 40 countries have been invited to attend, with the goal of engaging a broad array of international ethanol leaders about the benefits of expanding global use.”

Day 2 of the conference included a breakfast buffet, welcome by USGC President and CEO Ryan LeGrand, keynote presentations, discussion panels, more group portraits of various countries, as well as a nice networking reception.

Global Ethanol Summit – Day 1

Last week I had the distinct honor of photographing an amazing international conference at the Hyatt Regency in Reston, VA, just outside our nation’s capitol.

The 2023 Global Ethanol Summit (GES) seeks to elevate bioethanol’s international visibility and ongoing successful initiatives as a viable decarbonization solution within the transportation and emerging new uses sectors.  The conference will feature senior-level officials from agriculture, environment and energy ministries from around the world to discuss environmental, human health and economic benefits of ethanol use with industry leaders, while fostering collaboration and trade.  More than 450 ministerial-level officials and senior-level industry leaders, ethanol producers and refiners from over 40 countries attended the event, with the goal of engaging a broad array of international ethanol leaders about the benefits of expanding global use.

Day 1 of the conference included registration, networking, keynote presentations, group portraits of various countries, and a warm Welcome Reception.

USGC Board of Directors Meeting in Calgary – Day 3

I had the distinct honor and great pleasure of photographing the US Grains Council’s 63rd Annual Board of Directors Meeting in Calgary Canada this summer!!!

The majority of the conference took place at the Hyatt Regency Calgary. On the final day, new leadership was elected, and a new delegates were added to the Board of Directors.

Here are a few images from Day 3 of this amazing annual meeting…