The Hispanic Star Gala, presented by We Are All Human (WAAH), is an event that celebrates the contributions of the Hispanic community, bringing together leaders, advocates, and influencers for an unforgettable night. Held at the iconic Cipriani Wall Street in New York City, the gala is not only a significant cultural event but also an excellent opportunity for photographers to capture the energy, elegance, and impact of the evening.

This year marked our second time photographing the prestigious event, and while last year’s experience saw us covering the gala with a team of three photographers, this time only one photographer was requested. The challenge? To document the dynamic atmosphere of the night, showcasing the excitement, the glamour, and the intimate moments that make the Hispanic Star Gala so special. Here's a behind-the-scenes look at how we captured the essence of the evening with precision and creativity.

Capturing the Energy: Close-Ups and Wide-Angle Shots

One of the main objectives of photographing an event like the Hispanic Star Gala is to capture both the intimacy of individual moments and the energy of the entire event. The gala is full of speeches, presentations, and entertainment that require photographers to be agile, moving quickly between close-up shots of speakers or honorees and wide-angle shots that showcase the crowd's enthusiasm.

• Close-up shots allow us to focus on the emotion and expression of the guests, capturing everything from the excitement on a speaker's face to the elegance of the attendees in their formal attire. These intimate shots bring a personal connection to the larger narrative of the night.

• Wide-angle shots, on the other hand, highlight the grandeur of the event. From the elegant dinner tables and the beautifully decorated venue to the scale of the crowd and the intricate details of the performances, wide-angle photos provide a sense of place and scale that is essential to portraying the full scope of the event.

The Highlights: Key Moments to Capture

From the inspiring speeches to the heartfelt moments of recognition, the Hispanic Star Gala was full of highlight-worthy moments. As a photographer, it’s crucial to anticipate and prepare for these key moments:

1. Speeches and Award Presentations: These moments were some of the most intimate and inspiring of the night. Capturing the emotion of the speakers and honorees is essential, as these individuals are often leaders and role models within the Hispanic community.

2. Guest Interactions and Networking: The gala isn’t just about speeches and awards; it’s also about connection and collaboration. Documenting candid moments where guests engage with one another is important for showing the spirit of the event.

3. Performances and Entertainment: With entertainment as a key part of the evening’s festivities, photographing the performers—whether they were musicians, dancers, or speakers—adds an extra layer of dynamism to the photos.

4. Group Shots and Crowds: The gala brings together a diverse range of individuals, so capturing group shots of attendees in various settings (e.g., seated at tables, networking, or enjoying performances) adds context and tells a fuller story.