Mid-October is like the Super Bowl for event planners in NYC. Just step back and imagine how much work goes into planning and executing any three-day expo; then remember, this one is dedicated entirely to event planners. The typical attendee might not notice every fine detail, but not here. Most people in attendance live and breathe those details every day. They plan for every possible situation their clients might face.


I love seeing the behind-the-scenes work that leads up to EMRG’s big annual event. From the Zoom conferences with speakers and influencers to the non-stop calls, emails, and messages flying around as Night 1 gets underway, it’s a masterclass in coordination and creativity.


Event Planner Expo 2025 signage displayed at a professional conference venue with pink accent lighting.
A nightclub interior with green and purple LED lighting features illuminated disco balls and modern geometric decor.

Day 1: Opening Cocktail Party



I rarely know exactly how the space at Lavan Midtown will look for the Opening Cocktail Party and VIP Reception. My goal for the expo is to document from EMRG’s perspective: the room setups, the intentional design details, and the vendors and sponsors before the doors open. Once guests arrive, many of whom are vendors, sponsors, or influencers, the focus shifts to portraits and moments of connection. Posed images outweigh pure candids here because these visuals are used not only for social media but also for marketing next year’s expo. It’s a cycle of living in the moment while planning for the future.

The Event Planner Expo 2025 entrance with large blue signage and glass doors displaying EXPO 2025 branding.
Illuminated green and pink neon signage displaying 'EXPO 2025' against a dark background.
Silhouetted hands holding phones to record a concert with vibrant purple and pink stage lighting in the background.
Modern event space with silver balloon decorations, green neon lighting and geometric frame structures.
Dancers perform energetic choreography in a room with pink and green lighting effects on the dance floor.
A dramatic pink feathered display tower with champagne stands on a pink carpet under purple lighting at an event.
Students participate in an engaging STEM learning activity at a colorful interactive science exhibit.
People seated at a long white table illuminated by pink and purple ambient lighting in a modern space.
Event photo backdrop with sponsor logos and purple lighting at an expo venue.
An event planner expo display with purple lighting and signage reading 'EXPO 2025' in the background.
Friends enjoying drinks and socializing at a nightclub with colorful purple and blue lighting effects in the background.
Models walk the runway in pink and white outfits during a fashion show with purple lighting and stage effects.
People dancing and socializing at a nightclub with vibrant purple and green lighting effects.
Event attendees celebrate at an expo venue with vibrant purple lighting and energetic party atmosphere.

Since meeting Erica a few years back and seeing countless emails and mailers about the Expo, I’ve developed a strong sense of what EMRG looks for in the final images. That insight helps tremendously, paired with more than a decade of photographing major events.


I’ve built relationships with vendors and guests that could easily fill a book. Now, in my third year directly involved with the Expo, I see many familiar faces and look forward to meeting new people every year. Building and fostering these connections is what the Expo is all about.

Day 2: Speaker Series at 92NY



For many, the Speaker Series is the most valuable part of the Expo. A lot of knowledge and insight is shared on the 92NY stage, and I never take for granted being able to listen while documenting. I’ve learned things here that I apply in my day-to-day business.


I don’t get to sit in the auditorium the entire day. After each panel or keynote, I handle sponsor step-and-repeat photos, as well as VIP meet-and-greet sessions with the keynote speakers.

Theater stage with blue-lit screen displaying 'PAX 2025' surrounded by floral arrangements and empty auditorium seats.
A long line of people wait outside a corner building on a city street with large numbers painted on the wall.
A line of people wait outside a brick building entrance during a daytime event.
A crowd of people seated in an auditorium during a presentation or performance.
People gathered around tables at a social event signing papers or documents on red tablecloths.
Two people sit on chairs in a dimly lit room while looking down at something in their hands.
A series of pink-tinted yogurt or smoothie containers arranged in a row on a dark surface.
Close-up view of vintage typewriter keys and mechanisms in dim lighting showing mechanical details and patina.
A dark wooden table with restaurant decor and framed artwork displayed on the wall behind it.
Multiple rows of black and white numbered stickers displaying '2025' arranged in a repeating pattern on a red background.

Jen Buck, David Beahm, and Daymond John all delivered incredible talks. Many attendees were captivated by David’s keynote; his story about planning an ambitious series of weekend events for a client was fascinating. I’ve photographed major events, but that one sounded like a once-in-a-lifetime challenge.


For Day 2 and Day 3, I work with a second photographer, my go-to, Erica Harris (@ericascameras). While I cover the panel moments of stage or guest interactions in the breakout room, she focuses on the live sessions to make sure we never miss a moment. Having someone you trust who’s not only skilled but mindful of guests and their experience is invaluable.


Photographers often forget that how you make people feel matters as much as the photos themselves. Erica understands that balance perfectly. Plus, she’s an active member of my workshop community, which makes bringing her on an easy decision every opportunity I get.

Speakers seated in gray armchairs on stage during a panel discussion event with blue curtain backdrop.
Speakers engage in conversation on stage with white chairs and dark backdrop at professional conference event.
Speaker presenting on stage with projected visuals in a professional conference setting.
Conference speakers engaged in conversation while seated in comfortable armchairs on a dimly lit stage.
Professional speakers seated in white armchairs having an animated discussion on dimly lit stage with red decor.
Two people engaged in an animated discussion while seated on stage at a professional event.
A speaker in a bright red coat gestures while presenting on a dark stage with white chairs and floral arrangements.
Conference presentation with colorful visual notes and diagrams displayed on multiple white boards.
Group of professionals on stage at a business conference event with bright lighting.
Person drawing on multiple white boards with diagrams and text during a presentation.
A person in a black top and leopard print pants lounges dramatically across a gray couch during a presentation.
A collage of people engaging in lively conversation on stage at a professional event with white chairs and blue lighting.

Day 3: Exhibitor Floor & After Party



Day 3 is always a long one for me, a little more tired than usual. After the Speaker Series wrapped, I made a stop at a dear friend’s 15th anniversary of her live music series, Nema’s Boom Boom Room, at SOBs. I mention this because Nema attended the VIP Reception on Day 1, and a few of her colleagues were at 92NY as well. Supporting her and photographing the live music allows me to flex my creativity in a different way; free from client expectations and I got to listen to a few of my fav R&B acts.


Many people in this industry wear multiple hats, and you never know who you’ll meet or what opportunities might come from it. If you ever find yourself struggling to connect or grow your circle, I highly recommend events like The Event Planner Expo. You’ll find like-minded people and spark real relationships.

Red-tinted nightclub interior with glowing lights and dark silhouettes creating a moody atmospheric ambiance.
Person in black outfit poses against sponsor wall backdrop with corporate logos at promotional event.
People networking and socializing at a business event with colorful blue and purple lighting in the background.

Back at the Metropolitan Pavilion, the energy is unmatched. I arrive early to capture vendors setting up, chatting, and preparing before doors open. This is the most interactive day of the expo; full of selling, networking, and collaboration.


EricaCameras and I focus on photographing every booth and vendor, then capturing candid interactions and posed moments throughout the day. On the second floor, there’s a VIP area with a bar, seating, and fireside chats. Once the panels start, Erica handles that space—photographing speakers, step-and-repeats, and networking moments—while I cover the main floor.


I love seeing familiar faces and what new products or services they’re showcasing. I always make sure to grab a few keepsakes for myself and my daughter, especially flowers, which I usually miss, but not this time.

People working at desks in a modern office space with computers and monitors.
Catering staff stand behind an illuminated bar display with a sign indicating over 50 years of service experience.
A mobile cigar lounge setup at an event with staff members behind a black-branded counter displaying various cigar products.
Exhibition signage and displays for 'The Event Planner EXPO 2025' shown in a metropolitan venue space.
A colorful floral arrangement with orange and yellow flowers adorns a long display table at an event.
Event planning expo signage and materials displayed on a wooden table with blue banners and glass decor items.
Event attendees pose in front of a bright blue inflatable photo backdrop at a corporate gathering.
A black booth display with illuminated 'White Light Diner' signage set up in an indoor event space.
Elegant bar setup with Perfect Serve branding and professional bartending display.
A sequence of event photos showing a festive garden party scene with decorative lighting and outdoor decor.
People gather around a long table filled with colorful sushi rolls and appetizers at an elegant event.
A series of people preparing cotton candy at a crowded indoor event using professional spinning machines.
Person in black outfit poses energetically against event backdrop with multiple sponsor logos at The Event Planner Expo 2025.
Harpist in a sparkly costume with fairy wings performs on stage at the Athena venue.
Amber Room event space with mood lighting and decorative elements for a special occasion.
A series of illuminated signs and displays mounted on walls in a dark indoor space.
People signing autographs at a promotional event with EMRG Media banners displayed in the background.
Crowded indoor event space with attendees mingling and networking.
Three people pose together at a media event with sponsor logos and banners visible in the background.
People enjoying a nighttime outdoor gathering with sparklers and festive lighting creating a magical atmosphere.
Three people sit casually on a ledge in front of a wall with text that reads 'WARNING THERE MAY CAUSE GENIUS'.
Business professionals networking and mingling at a corporate event with drinks and conversation.
Interactive display featuring colorful mountain-themed artwork and decorations on wooden flooring.
Sponsor wall displaying multiple company logos and branding for Event Planner Expo 2025.
Dimly lit performance space with musical equipment and stage lighting setup.
A lively nightclub scene with DJ equipment and colorful lighting creating an energetic party atmosphere.
Event space with wooden floors and ambient lighting showing attendees socializing.
Cozy lounge area at an event with comfortable seating and ambient lighting.
Performer in a red tulle skirt plays the harp during a theatrical performance.
Group of attendees standing together at a conference with event banners and signage in the background.
Person in black clothing performs energetic breakdancing moves on white floor at media expo event.
A person in a yellow dress sits in a white chair at an event, with 'EM' signage visible in the background.
A person wearing a brown plaid blazer and dark pants sits casually on a white couch while laughing and smiling.
Speaker in tan blazer and glasses gestures animatedly while seated on white chair at Expo 2025 event.
A person in black attire sits casually on a white couch, showing expressive gestures in a series of connected photos.
A group of people pose together at the EMRG Media Expo 2025 event in front of a branded backdrop.
Two people pose together on a red carpet at an event with multiple sponsor logos visible on the backdrop.
Panel discussion participants seated on white chairs and gold cubes on stage during a conference presentation.
Art gallery exhibition showing colorful portrait paintings and people viewing artwork on wooden floors with warm lighting.
A person holds multiple pizza boxes while standing in front of a counter at a pizza restaurant.
People gather at an indoor event space with colorful decorations and signage visible in multiple connected rooms.

As the final fireside chat wraps, I head to Nebula for the After Party. My job is to get detail shots of the venue and sponsors, then capture the night’s celebration. For the EMRG team, this is a well-earned chance to unwind and celebrate a successful three days. It amazes me how seamlessly they handle challenges behind the scenes and make it all look effortless. The team is truly exceptional.


The Event Planner Expo focuses on two things: bringing people together and fostering new business. For me, that’s what makes documenting it so special. I love capturing the little moments, the handshake that turns into a partnership, the laughter between panels, the spark of an idea forming, but what I enjoy most is interacting with everyone throughout the three days. Each conversation and each frame adds another piece to the visual story of what this community really is: creative people connecting, collaborating, and building something bigger together.

Dancers perform on stage with a bright blue EXPO2025 digital display screen in the background.
Friends enjoying cocktails and conversation at a dimly lit bar with a cozy atmosphere.
Three people pose together at an Expo 2025 event with one person wearing a white tutu and ice skates.
Two attendees enjoying themselves at a nighttime event with lanyards and drinks.
Two people pose together in front of an illuminated stage display showing '2025' in blue lighting.
People in formal attire stand in front of a black and white striped backdrop at an event.
Two people in dark outfits dancing together at a nightclub with blue lighting.
Group of attendees networking and socializing at a tech expo conference event with 2025 signage visible.
Large convention hall with dramatic red and blue lighting effects illuminating a crowded expo space.
Friends sitting together on floor at event wearing casual attire including denim and sneakers.
Sequence of photos showing a donut wall display board with multiple rows of glazed donuts arranged in a grid pattern.
Crowded nightclub scene with blue lighting and people dancing on a dark dance floor.
A person in a beige top smiling while holding a drink at a dimly lit party venue.
Nightclub interior with colorful lighting and party atmosphere showing people enjoying the music.
Colorful expo display with bright neon blue signage showing '2025' text against dark background.
Abstract blue light trails and glowing patterns against a dark background create an ethereal technological display.
Large nightclub venue with blue LED lighting and crowd silhouettes visible against illuminated ceiling.
Group of friends dancing and posing together at a nightclub with purple lighting and dark atmosphere.