Tag Archive for: event

Real Prom | May 2017

May 17, 2017
17 May 2017

BOWIE, MD | May 2017

Hi there!

This May, I had the privilege of participating in a high school teenager’s most anticipated event: senior prom. Bowie High School senior Jalen Robinson’s mom, Nadia, wanted to commemorate her only son’s prom with photos and I was eager to oblige.

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Jalen’s parents and friends were present as he prepared for prom, which made the shoot that much more lively. The goal: to win prom’s Best Dressed prize–and at 6’4, Jalen is no wallflower.

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All of the details: the bowtie, cufflinks, monogrammed sleeves, pocket square, and even the color of the tuxedo were meticulously chosen. But none were as important as the shoes. Jalen had two shoe choices to pair with his tux: black or special. “Black shoes are boring,” Jalen said, as he opted for special.

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Nadia was happy to share the details of Jalen’s tux:

  • Custom made suit: JL Michael’s Custom Clothier
  • Bowtie: JoS A. Banks
  • Shoes: Steve Madden
  • Cufflinks: Overstock

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Before we knew it, Jalen and his prom date, Christa, were ready.

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Jalen and his parents

I thought they looked beautiful! In addition, Nadia’s got some advice for all of you parents sending your kids to prom. “Plan early and pace yourself to avoid stress, last minute errands and financial strain. And remember to have fun and enjoy the process. Kids only have one senior prom!” I couldn’t have said it better myself.

Until next time,

Insana

 

 

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Howard University’s Charter Day Dinner

March 7, 2017
07 Mar 2017

This weekend, I had the pleasure of photographing Howard University’s Charter Day Dinner, held at the Washington Hilton in DC. Hosted by Common, with keynotes by the university president, Wayne A.I. Frederick, the 2017 Charter Day Dinner continues a 93-year old tradition of honoring the founding of Howard University through a university-wide celebration. Guests included Montgomery County Executive Ike Leggett, Congressman Elijah Cummings, Prince George’s County Executive Rushern Baker, Maryland Senator Chris Van Hollen, and Director of Communications for the White House’s Office of Public Liaison, Omarosa Manigault.

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Howard University’s Premier Vocal Group, Afro Blue

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Rushern Baker, Chris Van Hollen, Ike Leggett, and Elijah Cummings

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What a night! I love shooting for Howard University and I can’t wait until the next event. Until next time,

Insana

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Milestone Birthday | Melissa’s 30th Birthday Celebration

June 28, 2016
28 Jun 2016

Summer is here and I’ve got new photos to share with you!

I recently had the chance to photograph Melissa Davis’ 30th birthday celebration. Melissa chose the theme “Cherishing the Moment” for her milestone birthday, and this fun-loving and outgoing woman DID JUST THAT!

Melissa Davis Milestone Birthday

We all know how time consuming and stressful event planning can be, which is why many reach out to event planning coordinators to tackle the tasks. For those who decide to tackle the project themselves, Melissa gave great advice for making it a success!
1. Start EARLY searching for whatever it is your looking for such as venues, decorations, ideas, outfits, etc. Never think it’s too early to start searching!!!
2. Never hesitate to ask questions when working with vendors. It’s always important to know what you’re getting for your money.
3. Make a budget when planning an event. Keep in mind that simplicity is best at times – you don’t have to always overdo it or do too much.
4. Always have a backup plan because you never know if something may fall through.

Check out the vendors Melissa used who, according to her, “helped made my event extra special and unforgettable”:
Hair: Deborah Morman, Stylist/Owner of Debs Dooz
Make-up: Rickya Dodson, Licensed Make-up Artist/Hair Stylist
Decorations: Shaka Gray, Melissa’s BFF
Graphic Designer: E-Jay Smith, E-Jay Designs
DJ: DJ Dark Night
Catering: Kimberly Martin, La Fontaine Bleue
Cake: “The Cake Lady” Diane White, Owner of Kake Korner Bakery
Photographer: Yours Truly!

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Melissa stated that the most memorable moment of her milestone birthday was the out pour of love from her parents, family, friends and co-workers. She shared that “The love was just overwhelming and heartfelt and this made my birthday unforgettable and, most importantly, memorable. I honestly felt like God answered my prayers and gave me all my heart’s desires. I can truly say that I lived in the moments and that I cherished every moment that was given to me. I prayed about my birthday party and I felt that God allowed me to have a successful party and so much more. God really blew my mind!!”

 

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See what Melissa has to say about her photo session experience:

“My experience with Ms. Insana Collins was hands down amazing. I couldn’t ask for a better person to do the job. I was searching hard for the right photographer to capture the unforgettable moments at my birthday party. Deep down inside I knew I had to pick the right one. I reached out to several photographers for the job at hand and I asked several questions, but it was something special about Insana. She was very professional, prompt to my response, patience, accommodating and so sweet. Even though I never met Insana [before the party], I just felt like she was the right one for the job!!! She made me feel comfortable and sure about my decision. When the results came back, she blew my mind away. In fact I believe she was God sent because she was a referral to me. When I saw my photos from my event I just cried and I relived the moments all over again. Insana truly has a gift and it definitely shows in her work. I was beyond pleased with the results and I would recommend her for sure to anyone who’s searching for photographer. She’ll NEVER let you down.”

 

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Melissa and I never met before her party, but we left feeling like lifelong buddies. It was such a pleasure being a part of this milestone birthday celebration and an honor to provide Melissa with the lasting memories.

I’m happily accepting wedding, event, family, and commercial photo sessions. I hope to hear from you soon!

Until next time,

Insana :)

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The Family Photographer’s Family Reunion

August 5, 2015
05 Aug 2015

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I began my career in photography the way many others have. First, I started taking pictures as a hobby, so much so, that people requested that I take their event photos. Then I learned more about photography and purchased the best camera. More people requested photos. Then I wanted to get better, so I read books, took classes, attended conferences and studied on YouTube. Even more people requested photos. Then I practiced, practiced, and practiced. Got better equipment. Upgraded my camera and lenses. And just like many photographers before me, my easiest subjects were none other than my family members, out of sheer availability.

It’s been eight years since I’ve decided to dedicate my time and energy to professional photography, but my family photography experience hasn’t changed one bit. This means that when we have special events like family reunions, I’m the first in line to capture the day. This summer’s Collins Family Reunion was no different.

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On duty.

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Line dancing at the white party.

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My cousin Monica and uncle Joe.

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My newest niece, Alyssa, and cousin Tameka.

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My cousin Dennis and Andrea, from Little Rock, Arkansas.

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My beautiful mother (in pink) and her friend, Mary.

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My sister-in-law and two nieces.

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My mom and her 11 brothers and sisters.

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The children and grandchildren of my grandparents, Harvey and Mary. I hope they can see us and are proud that we continue this family tradition.

I’m honored that I can take professional photos of my family. It requires the right equipment, of course, the skill to make people smile, stand up straight, look thinner, and above all, corral large groups of people who are constantly distracted by one another. This is a family reunion after all!

The reunion went off without a hitch and I can’t wait until next time! The smiles of aunts, uncles, brothers, sisters and cousins made it all worthwhile. I hope you cherish your family the way that I cherish mine,

Insana

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RAWartists DC

April 3, 2014
03 Apr 2014

Guess what?!

This April, my work will be featured in a RAWartists showcase, which means you’re invited!
This month’s RAWartists showcase is called SPECTRUM, and it features not only DC-area photographers like me, but musicians, painters, sculptors, fashion designers, make-up artists, dancers, and creatives of all kinds. There will be about 30 of us, putting on a show just for you.

Details:
Sunday, April 27th
6-10 pm
@ Penn Social [801 E Street NW, Washington, DC]
21+ & Fashionable Attire

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Wanna come to my very first showcase or show support?
Purchase tickets to my showcase at
http://www.rawartists.org/insana by April 12th.

I hope to see you there!

Insana

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