Event Photographer

Smile Train 25th Anniversary Gala at Cipriani

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Photographing the Smile Train Gala at Cipriani was an unforgettable experience. It’s hard to beat the energy of an event that’s not just glamorous but also so meaningful. The gala was filled with incredible people coming together for a cause close to my heart—helping children around the world get the cleft lip and palate surgeries they need.

The venue, Cipriani, was absolutely stunning. The grand architecture and elegant ambiance set the perfect tone for the night, and I couldn’t wait to capture every moment. From the speeches that highlighted the impact of Smile Train’s work to the heartfelt moments of gratitude, there was so much emotion in the room.

What really stood out, though, was the people. The guests, the honorees, and the kids whose lives were changed by Smile Train were all shining examples of hope and resilience. Capturing those intimate, genuine moments between families and their supporters was definitely a highlight.

It’s not every day you get to document such a powerful, inspiring evening, and I’m grateful to have been able to help tell the story of such an important cause through my photos. The night was filled with joy, and it was amazing to see how many people were dedicated to making a real difference.

Event photographer, Cipriani, gala photography, luxury events, elegant venues, event photography NYC, corporate events, fundraising events, red carpet, upscale events, intimate moments, event highlights, high-end events, event storytelling, formal photography, luxury event photographer, gala dinner, event portraits, venue photography, prestigious events, VIP guests, charity galas, event candid shots.

Jon Bon Jovi for Hulu

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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!

MAD in New York City

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Photographing the MAD event for NOMA was hands down one of the coolest gigs I’ve had. I mean, how often do you get to capture culinary legends like Dan Barber, René Redzepi, and a bunch of other top chefs in one room? The whole vibe was electric, with everyone there talking food, creativity, and what’s next for the culinary world. It felt like being in the middle of something really special, and I loved being able to document it.

I brought my Sony A1 to the event, which was the perfect choice. The lighting wasn’t exactly the easiest to work with, but the A1 made it a breeze. It’s quick, sharp, and handled the low-light moments like a champ—so I could focus on getting the candid shots and little details without missing a thing. Whether it was capturing the chefs deep in conversation or those quick, fun moments between the guests, it was just a blast.

The best part, though, was the people. Dan Barber, René Redzepi, and all the chefs were genuinely awesome to photograph. Seeing them interact with each other, sharing ideas and insights, was inspiring in itself. Plus, getting those behind-the-scenes moments of them being so focused or having a laugh made it feel like I was part of the action.

In the end, it wasn’t just about snapping cool photos—it was about capturing the energy and passion of the event. It was all about creativity, collaboration, and, of course, great food. Can’t wait for the next one!

Guggenheim Photographer

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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

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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

Lotus Cars IPO at Nasdaq in Times Square

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Photographing the Lotus car IPO at Nasdaq in Times Square was definitely a standout experience. The whole event was electric, with the buzz of a major IPO combined with the incredible presence of some of the most stunning cars I’ve ever seen. The team at Lotus brought some of their top models to showcase, and it was hard not to be amazed by the sleek, powerful design of each car.

The atmosphere in Times Square added an extra layer of excitement—there’s just something about the energy of the city that makes events like this feel even bigger. With the giant digital screens flashing behind us and the crowd gathered in anticipation, the scene was set for a memorable moment. I made sure to focus on capturing the incredible detail and craftsmanship of each Lotus car, along with those candid moments of the team celebrating, interacting, and sharing the experience.

Getting the right shots of the cars was key, especially with the fast-paced nature of the event. I used a combination of wide-angle shots to capture the cars in all their glory against the backdrop of Times Square, while also focusing on close-ups to highlight the unique features of each vehicle. The combination of dynamic lighting, the energy of the crowd, and the cars themselves made for some truly striking photos.

Overall, photographing the Lotus IPO at Nasdaq in Times Square was an incredible experience. It wasn’t just about the IPO itself, but about capturing the energy and prestige of the moment alongside the luxury and performance of the cars. It’s not every day you get to document such a high-profile event with such incredible vehicles, and I’m grateful to have been part of it.

Ben Hider - Photographer for Nasdaq IPO for Lotus Cars in Times Square

Chat GPT writes about the LOTUS IPO at Nasdaq -

Title: Driving into the Future: The Lotus Car IPO at Nasdaq in Times Square

Introduction: In the heart of New York City's iconic Times Square, amidst the hustle and bustle of one of the world's most vibrant commercial districts, a historic event unfolded – the initial public offering (IPO) of Lotus Cars on the Nasdaq stock exchange. This momentous occasion marked a significant milestone for the legendary British automotive manufacturer, as it embarked on a new chapter of growth and innovation.

The Legacy of Lotus: Lotus Cars holds a storied legacy in the automotive industry, renowned for its engineering excellence, precision craftsmanship, and uncompromising commitment to performance. Since its inception in 1952 by Colin Chapman, Lotus has been synonymous with cutting-edge technology and groundbreaking design, earning a devoted following among enthusiasts and collectors worldwide.

Revving Up for Growth: With its IPO at Nasdaq, Lotus signaled its intent to accelerate its growth trajectory and expand its global footprint. The influx of capital from the public offering will fuel investments in research and development, product innovation, and market expansion initiatives. This strategic move underscores Lotus' ambition to carve out a larger share of the luxury sports car market and solidify its position as a trailblazer in automotive engineering.

Innovation at the Forefront: At the core of Lotus' DNA lies a relentless pursuit of innovation. From pioneering advancements in aerodynamics to revolutionizing vehicle dynamics with groundbreaking chassis technology, Lotus has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in automotive design. With its IPO, Lotus reaffirms its commitment to pushing the envelope further, driving innovation across electrification, autonomous driving, and sustainable mobility solutions.

A Symbol of British Excellence: For decades, Lotus has been a shining beacon of British automotive excellence, embodying the spirit of ingenuity, craftsmanship, and performance that defines the nation's engineering heritage. The company's IPO at Nasdaq serves as a testament to the enduring global appeal of British automotive craftsmanship and the resilience of the UK's automotive industry.

The Road Ahead: As Lotus embarks on this new chapter as a publicly traded company, the road ahead is filled with promise and opportunity. With a rich heritage to draw upon and a vision for the future firmly in place, Lotus is poised to captivate the hearts and minds of automotive enthusiasts for generations to come. From the storied streets of Monaco to the iconic boulevards of Times Square, the Lotus name will continue to stand for innovation, performance, and the relentless pursuit of automotive perfection.

Conclusion: The Lotus Car IPO at Nasdaq in Times Square represents a pivotal moment in the company's illustrious history, signaling its determination to drive forward into a future defined by innovation, excellence, and uncompromising performance. As Lotus sets its sights on new horizons, one thing is clear – the journey ahead promises to be as exhilarating and unforgettable as the cars themselves.

One interesting statistic about Lotus Cars is their remarkable success in motorsport despite being a relatively small manufacturer compared to giants like Ferrari or Porsche. According to a report by Autocar, Lotus Cars has won a total of 13 Formula One Grand Prix Championships. This achievement is particularly impressive considering their limited resources compared to larger competitors. Lotus's innovative engineering and lightweight design philosophy have contributed to their success on the racetrack.

Another intriguing statistic is related to Lotus's commitment to lightweight design principles. According to a study by Car and Driver, the Lotus Elise, a popular model known for its agility and performance, weighs just around 1,900 pounds. This emphasis on minimizing weight not only enhances performance but also improves fuel efficiency and handling characteristics.

Furthermore, Lotus Cars has a rich heritage of innovation in automotive engineering. One lesser-known fact is that Lotus was among the pioneers of using composite materials in car construction. According to Lotus Engineering's official website, they introduced the first composite monocoque chassis in Formula One with the Lotus 63 in 1969. This innovation revolutionized the construction of racing cars, leading to significant advancements in safety and performance.

These statistics highlight Lotus Cars' unique position in the automotive industry, showcasing their achievements in motorsport, commitment to lightweight design, and trailblazing innovations in engineering.

Revl Fruits Event at Tara in Greenwich Village

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Band of Horses at the Capitol in Port Chester

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I’ve been thinking lately about getting back into photographing more concerts. In the past, I had the opportunity to photograph music events for Getty Images, and those were some of my most exciting shoots. There’s something about the energy of a live performance that makes concert photography so unique. The challenge of capturing the intensity of the crowd, the raw emotion of the artist, and the drama of the stage lighting is something I really miss.

Having worked with Getty, I had the chance to cover a wide range of music events—from intimate gigs to massive festivals. Those experiences taught me how to work quickly in dynamic environments and how to use lighting, angles, and composition to tell the story of the performance. Concert photography is all about timing and creativity, and I’d love to dive back into it and capture more of those high-energy moments.

If you're looking for a photographer who knows how to capture the magic of live music, I’d love to collaborate. I’m excited about the idea of working with more artists, festivals, and venues to bring the energy of live performances to life through my lens.