9/11 Memorial and Museum Photography

Capturing Emotion: Behind the Scenes of an Interview at the 9/11 Memorial & Museum

When it comes to documentary photography in New York, few assignments are as meaningful as capturing the behind-the-scenes moments of an interview at the 9/11 Memorial & Museum. I recently had the chance to photograph an interview with the daughter of a 9/11 victim, and it was an incredibly emotional and powerful experience. This kind of event photography in NYC takes a mix of sensitivity, technical skill, and a real respect for the people and place involved.

Why Behind-the-Scenes Photography Matters

Behind-the-scenes (BTS) photography is all about storytelling. Whether you're covering corporate interviews, press events, or documentary shoots in New York, capturing those candid, in-between moments adds so much depth to the final story. These images help show the full picture—the emotion, the setting, and the story behind the interview itself.

Challenges of Shooting at the 9/11 Memorial & Museum

Location photography in New York City is never easy, and the 9/11 Memorial & Museum has its own unique set of challenges. It's a place of deep reflection, so staying low-key while capturing the moment is key. As a professional event photographer in NYC, I made sure to use minimal gear, rely on natural light when possible, and set my camera to silent mode to avoid drawing attention.

Security and permissions are also big factors here. Planning ahead with the production team made sure everything was good to go before we even arrived. If you’re looking to hire a professional photographer in New York for a high-profile event, make sure they know how to handle logistics like permissions and working in sensitive environments.

Photography Gear & Techniques for BTS Shoots

For this shoot, I went with a full-frame DSLR and a fast prime lens, perfect for capturing details in low-light settings. A mirrorless camera with a silent shutter was also a must to stay discreet. The goal was to get authentic, powerful shots without disrupting the flow of the interview.

• Lens choice: A 50mm or 85mm prime lens is great for natural, up-close shots.

• Lighting: Natural light when possible, with a small LED panel for backup.

• Composition: Framing the subject with memorial elements in the background added extra depth.

The Power of Storytelling Through Photography

Every shot told a story—from the quiet moments before the interview to the heartfelt expressions during it. Capturing real emotion is what makes a photo resonate. That’s why hiring an experienced event photographer in NYC is so important when working on meaningful projects like this.

Why Hire a Pro Photographer for Your Event?

If you need a documentary, event, or corporate photographer in New York, working with someone experienced means your story gets captured in a professional yet natural way. Whether it’s press photography, behind-the-scenes coverage, or headshots in NYC, a skilled photographer knows how to stay behind the scenes while still delivering powerful images.

The 9/11 Memorial & Museum is a place of deep significance, and photographing an interview there isn’t just about technical ability—it’s about empathy, discretion, and storytelling. If you’re looking for a New York City event photographer to capture an important moment, let’s chat. I’d love to help document your story with the care and respect it deserves.

NYSE Photographer for VENU Opening Bell Ceremony

It’s been almost exactly 10 years since I was the house photographer at the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and covering bell ceremonies is a lot more fun now. I photographed the opening and closing bell for NYSE for almost 5 years. Coming back to Wall Street occasionally now is a pleasure. It’s a lot more fun a few times a year rather than 500 times a year. Below are photos of the Venu CEO ringing the opening bell in celebration of the recent IPO.

NYSE Photographer Ben Hider - photographed all content on the trading floor, board room and bell podium with a Canon R3 and Canon R5 mark ii.

Chat GPT says…

Title: Capturing the VENU Bell Ringing at the New York Stock Exchange

Photographing a monumental event like the VENU bell ringing at the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) requires both precision and creativity. This iconic occasion is not only a celebration of success but also an opportunity to create lasting visuals that tell a compelling story. Here’s a glimpse into how photography brought this milestone moment to life.

Planning the Perfect Shot

The NYSE is an iconic venue, and capturing its grandeur alongside the excitement of the bell-ringing ceremony requires careful planning. Wide-angle shots were essential for encompassing the historical architecture and vibrant energy of the trading floor, while close-ups captured the enthusiasm and pride on the faces of the VENU team.

Showcasing Key Moments

Every moment counts during a bell-ringing event. From the team’s arrival at the NYSE to the climactic ringing of the bell, each shot was timed to perfection. Action photography techniques were used to capture the dynamic energy of the team and the celebratory atmosphere. Images of the bell itself, framed by the NYSE’s intricate details, added depth to the story.

Leveraging Lighting for Dramatic Effect

The NYSE’s combination of natural and artificial lighting presented both challenges and opportunities. By balancing ambient light with additional flash photography, the photos achieved a professional and polished look. Careful attention was paid to the interplay of light and shadow to highlight the event’s significance and maintain clarity in every frame.

Incorporating VENU Branding

Branding played a crucial role in the photography. Close-ups of VENU’s logo on digital displays and team apparel emphasized the company’s identity. Shots featuring the team against the NYSE’s backdrop created powerful visuals that tied together the company’s milestone with this historic venue.

Post-Production for a Polished Finish

Post-production editing brought out the best in each photo. Adjustments to color, contrast, and sharpness ensured the images were vibrant and eye-catching. Every shot was optimized for use across digital platforms, including social media, press releases, and websites.

Conclusion

Photographing the VENU bell ringing at the New York Stock Exchange was an extraordinary experience that celebrated achievement and ambition. From dynamic action shots to detailed close-ups, the images captured the essence of this landmark moment while emphasizing VENU’s brand and story.

If you’re planning to document a corporate milestone, make sure your photography captures both the grandeur and the emotions of the event. Get in touch to create visuals that leave a lasting impression!

Jingle Ball at Madison Square Gardens

Jingle Ball by Z100 in Madison Square Gardens Photographer for ABC

Jon Bon Jovi for Hulu

Photographing the Hulu red carpet for the Jon Bon Jovi premiere was such an epic experience! I’ve shot red carpets before, but there’s something extra exciting about one for a legend like Jon Bon Jovi. The energy in the air was electric as the stars walked the carpet, and capturing those moments up close felt like being part of the action.

As the photographers lined up, I was ready to snap shots of the big moments—Jon himself, of course, as well as all the other celebrities and guests who were there to celebrate. There’s always this rush when the stars start arriving, and getting those perfect candid moments of excitement and smiles is what makes the job so fun. But, honestly, it was the vibe of the whole event that made it special. You could feel the anticipation as everyone was excited about the show’s premiere, and it’s always a thrill to be in the middle of that buzz.

The setup for a Hulu premiere had that mix of glamour and coolness that felt just right for Bon Jovi’s legacy. The lighting, the backdrop, the crowd—it all came together perfectly to capture the essence of a star-studded night. While the red carpet can get a little hectic, it’s the little moments, like when someone’s genuinely excited or sharing a laugh, that make the best photos.

Overall, it was a night full of energy, rock ‘n’ roll spirit, and some seriously awesome people to photograph. Getting to shoot the premiere of a show with someone as iconic as Jon Bon Jovi is definitely one of those experiences I’ll remember for a long time!

Guggenheim Photographer

I love the clean design of the Guggenheim Museum and the incredible aesthetic off the Frank Lloyd Wright building. Such a privilege to work there as a photographer occasionally and then even better to see my work used on their website.

I’m looking to photograph more museums and galleries in New York. There’s something about capturing art and culture that really excites me. Whether it’s photographing exhibits, installations, or behind-the-scenes moments at galleries, I love telling the stories of creativity and expression through my lens. New York City is full of inspiring spaces, and I’d love to work with more museums and galleries to showcase the work and the artists that make this city such a cultural hub. If you’re looking for a photographer who can capture the essence of your exhibition or space, I’d love to connect!

Photo by Ben Hider

Photographer for Bitfufu IPO at Nasdaq in Times Square

With 20 years of experience in event photography, including 5 years as the house photographer at the New York Stock Exchange, I’m looking to expand my work capturing IPOs and bell ringings at both the NYSE and Nasdaq. I’ve had the privilege of documenting some of the most exciting financial milestones, and I’d love the opportunity to bring my expertise to your next big event. If you’re in need of a photographer who knows how to capture the energy and significance of these moments, I’d be excited to connect and help bring your event to life.

Photographing the Bitfufu IPO at Nasdaq was a pretty incredible experience, especially with my background as the house photographer at the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) for five years. After shooting so many IPOs and market milestones at the NYSE, I knew this would be just as high-energy and fast-paced, but with a whole different vibe at Nasdaq. The moment Bitfufu made its debut on the big screen was one of those moments you just can’t miss.

The atmosphere at Nasdaq was buzzing. Everyone was excited, and I had to be on my toes to capture it all. With so many key moments happening at once, from the team’s reactions to the bell ringing, I had to stay quick on the trigger and make sure I got the best shots. My job was all about getting those raw, candid shots—whether it was the team celebrating, the stock ticker showing Bitfufu’s new listing, or those moments of focus and anticipation before the bell rang.

Having spent five years shooting at the NYSE, I’ve gotten really comfortable in fast-moving environments. I’m always thinking about angles and composition while keeping an eye out for those authentic moments. With an event like this, it’s important to be ready to snap the perfect shot as soon as it happens. The key was really capturing the vibe of the IPO—there’s a certain energy that comes with a company taking the next big step, and I love being able to document that in real-time.

What really made this shoot stand out, though, was the significance of Bitfufu’s IPO in the world of blockchain and cryptocurrency. It’s always exciting to photograph events like this, where the industry is evolving right before your eyes. Watching these companies and sectors make their mark on the global stage is inspiring, and I’m glad I could capture it in a way that tells the story of the day.

In the end, photographing the Bitfufu IPO at Nasdaq was a fast-paced but rewarding experience. Between getting the perfect angles, focusing on the right moments, and making sure the lighting was spot-on, it was a great reminder of how much I love shooting major milestones.

See more of my Nasdaq or NYSE work here

Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade

I’m eager to photograph more press events, where the energy is high, the moments are fleeting, and every shot has the potential to tell a story that makes headlines. Whether it’s capturing key interactions, reactions, or behind-the-scenes moments, I love being part of the action and turning those pivotal moments into timeless images.

Photographing the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade was an unforgettable experience. The energy of the crowd, the bright colors of the floats, and the excitement in the air made it such a unique event to shoot. I love capturing the joy and spectacle of big events like this, and the Macy’s Parade did not disappoint. From the massive balloons floating through the streets to the incredible performances, there was always something happening that kept me on my toes.

As a photographer, it’s all about getting those perfect moments in the chaos of a live event. The key to capturing the essence of the parade was being in the right spot at the right time. Whether it was a close-up of a performer or a wide shot of the parade stretching down the streets of New York City, I made sure to capture the excitement from every angle.

If you’re looking for a photographer to document your next event, I’d love to help capture the energy and essence of it, just like I did at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Whether it’s a parade, performance, or any live event, I’m always ready to get the shot that tells the story.

#Macy'sThanksgivingDayParade #ParadePhotography #NYCPhotography #EventPhotography #ThanksgivingPhotography

Transit Museum Train Show in Grand Central Terminal New York

I’m looking to expand my work with museums and cultural institutions around New York and Westchester. There’s something truly special about capturing the artistry, history, and culture that these spaces preserve and showcase. Whether it's a gallery exhibition, a cultural event, or architectural photography of the institutions themselves, I’d love to bring my lens to more of these creative environments. If you’re looking for a photographer to document the essence of your museum or cultural event, I’d be excited to connect!

The New York Transit Museum, located in Grand Central Terminal, is a fascinating institution that offers unique insights into the history and operation of public transportation in New York City. While specific statistics about the museum might not be widely discussed, here are some lesser-known facts and aspects:

1. Historical Significance: The New York Transit Museum is housed in a decommissioned subway station, making it one of the most unique museum spaces in the city. The station, known as the Court Street station, was closed in 1946, and the museum opened its doors to the public in 1976. This historical setting provides visitors with an authentic glimpse into the early days of the city's subway system.

   Source: New York Transit Museum - About

2. Collection Size: The museum boasts an extensive collection of vintage subway cars, buses, and other artifacts related to public transportation in New York City. According to their website, the collection includes over 1,600 subway cars and buses, as well as thousands of other items such as photographs, maps, and tokens. This vast collection offers visitors a comprehensive look at the evolution of transit in the city.

   Source: New York Transit Museum - Collections

3. Educational Programs: The New York Transit Museum offers a wide range of educational programs and resources for learners of all ages. These programs cover topics such as urban planning, engineering, and the history of transportation. The museum also provides outreach programs for schools and community groups, aiming to inspire curiosity and appreciation for public transit.

   Source: New York Transit Museum - Education

4. Special Events and Exhibitions: In addition to its permanent collection, the museum hosts rotating exhibitions and special events throughout the year. These events often explore timely topics related to public transportation, urban life, and historical preservation. From art installations to film screenings, there's always something new to discover at the New York Transit Museum.

   Source: New York Transit Museum - Events

5. Online Resources: The museum offers an array of online resources for those unable to visit in person. These include virtual tours, digital exhibits, educational videos, and archival collections. These online resources make the museum's offerings accessible to a wider audience and serve as valuable educational tools.

   Source: New York Transit Museum - Online Resources

These lesser-known aspects of the New York Transit Museum highlight its historical significance, extensive collection, educational programs, special events, and online resources, making it a valuable cultural institution for locals and visitors alike.

9/11 Memorial - 22nd Anniversary

9/11 Museum and Memorial Gala Dinner