Last weekend, I had the honor of photographing the Light Up Mason Green Gala for Mason Schools Foundation and Tatiana Nazarova. It was one of those nights that make you stop and think about how lucky you are to live where people actually show up for each other.
From the moment guests walked in, the energy was just good. Students played live music in the hallway — they sounded amazing — and the entire place glowed green. Green lights, green flowers, even green dresses and ties. Everyone took the theme seriously, and it made the night feel connected and fun.
I spent most of the evening near the step-and-repeat backdrop, photographing guests as they arrived. That spot turned out to be the perfect place to catch all the laughter, conversations, and that mix of excitement and pride people had walking in. It felt like every person there wanted to celebrate something meaningful — their school, their community.
I also want to say a huge thank-you to Tatiana Nazarova of Tata Realty for making it possible for me to be part of this event. Tatiana isn’t just an incredible real estate agent — she’s one of those people who truly cares about everyone around her. She’s been my own agent and longtime client, and I trust her completely. Watching her help organize and sponsor something that gives back to local schools just felt right. She’s kind, real, and exactly the kind of person you want in your corner.
The most touching part of the night was seeing people get recognized — teachers, sponsors — for all the work they do behind the scenes. Those small moments, when you see someone’s face light up while being appreciated, always get me.
I left that night proud and grateful. As a photographer, I love being part of stories like this — where the pictures aren’t just pretty, but mean something.
You can view the full gallery from the evening here: Gallery Link