On December 2, 2018, the members of Northern Region East’s  DC, Baltimore, and Northern Virginia Councils gathered as one to dance the afternoon away. This dance, our annual Sweetheart/Heartthrob semi-formal event, was held at a huge concert venue in Silver Spring, a suburb of Washington, D.C.  This was the first time that all three councils in Northern Region East (NRE) were together for an occasion like this! A huge win in BBYO history.  This incredible experience was enjoyed by everyone in attendance, or so it seemed to me, one of two photographers at the event.

If you have ever met me, you know I LOVE photography. In photography, every single photo tells a story. At the dance, I captured all types of moments -- happy, funny, joyful, and everything in between.

I take photos at BBYO events so I can practice my photography while creating long-lasting memories not only for myself but for others as well. The thrill of photography, is the greatest thing in the world, especially at BBYO events. If you are a member, you may have often heard the saying "BBYO is what you make of it." I believe that I make BBYO special for myself and others through my photography.  The fact that we, as BBYO members, have the opportunity to take leadership roles at our events, such as taking photos at events, is a great life skill and one that more of us should take advantage of. The event photographer makes the memories of BBYO live on forever.  Without my camera at events, I honestly think I would not have as much fun as I do, it provides me with a sense of unqiue purpose and helps me feel even more connected to my community. If I did not have photography in my life, I would not be the same person that I am now.

‍
If you are into photography and have a camera, I highly recommend reaching out to your regional/council staff to express your great interest in taking photos at an event. I recommend taking photos at events such as conventions, kickoffs, dances, and more. In doing so, you are literally one click away from creating a long-lasting memory for someone or a group of people in BBYO.