As a Chicago event photographer and creative who travels nationwide, one of the highlights of my year is documenting events that blend music, culture, activism, and community. This September, I had the incredible honor of photographing the 2025 Black Music Action Coalition (BMAC) Gala at the iconic Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, California.

Capturing Purpose at the BMAC Gala

The BMAC Gala isn’t just another awards show or industry party—it’s a movement. Since its founding in 2020, the Black Music Action Coalition has:

Distributed over $4 million in direct economic relief
Created more than 200 internships and job placements
Reached over 5,500 students with education and programming
Mentored 500+ emerging artists and music industry professionals

As a photographer, being entrusted to capture an event with such purpose goes far beyond taking beautiful photos. It’s about storytelling, preserving cultural history, and showcasing the energy of the room.

Honoring Industry Leaders

The 2025 Gala honored a powerful lineup of leaders shaping both the music industry and the world at large:

John Legend, who received the Quincy Jones Humanitarian Award
Irving Azoff, legendary music executive
Kai Cenat, digital creator and influencer
Sherrese Clarke, HarbourView Equity Partners
Apple Music & Primary Wave Music

One of the most unforgettable highlights of the evening was John Legend’s passionate speech reminding us that, “Every step forward we’ve ever taken in this country, every single win began with somebody telling the truth.”

Music That Moves

The night was full of magical performances, including:

A soulful set by Mickey Guyton
A surprise performance by the legendary Earth, Wind & Fire

The combination of powerful speeches and show-stopping performances created an atmosphere that was both celebratory and deeply meaningful.

Grateful for Trusted Partnerships

A special thank you to Donna Grecco for bringing me on to capture this incredible evening, and to the Primary Wave team—not only for being honored this year, but for trusting me on so many projects over the years. As a creative, I know how valuable long-term partnerships are, and I’m forever grateful for the trust and opportunities.

Event Photography: More Than Just Pictures

When people ask me what I love about event photography, I always come back to this: it’s about more than the image. It’s about capturing:

The connections between people
The atmosphere in the room
The once-in-a-lifetime moments that deserve to be remembered

Whether it’s photographing a music industry gala in Beverly Hills, a corporate conference in Chicago, or a brand activation in New York, my goal is always the same—to tell the story of the event through my lens.

Why Hire a Professional Gala Photographer

High-profile events like the BMAC Gala prove why hiring a professional matters. A skilled event photographer ensures that every speech, performance, and candid interaction is captured with precision. Photos become more than memories—they become assets for press, marketing, social media, and legacy storytelling.

If you’re planning a gala, music event, or conference, consider what professional photography can bring to the table:

High-quality imagery that reflects the scale and impact of your event
Quick turnaround for press releases and social sharing
Consistent branding across all visual assets

Let’s Work Together

As someone who has photographed everything from stadium tours and music festivals to intimate corporate events and industry galas, I bring over 12 years of professional experience to every project. My work has taken me across the country, but I’m proud to also serve as a Chicago-based event photographer for conferences, activations, and galas right here at home.

📸 If you’re searching for a Chicago event photographer, music industry photographer, gala photographer, or corporate event photographer, I’d love to connect.

Behind the Lens: Photographing the 2025 Black Music Action Coalition Gala