event photography | Ruby Ella Photo

The event was filled with energy, creativity, and a spirit of innovation that reflects what IKEA has brought to American households for four decades.

Celebrating 40 Years of IKEA in the U.S.

Last week, I had the privilege of capturing IKEA’s 40th anniversary activation event in Washington, DC—a milestone moment that celebrated not only the brand’s journey but also its impact on homes and communities across the U.S.

Ruby Melton

Sep 262 min read

Held in the heart of the DMV, this private affair brought together some of the region’s top influencers for a night full of luxe vibes, personalized experiences, and all things VS glam.

Glamour, Gold, and Girl Power: Inside the Victoria’s Secret x Jenee Naylor Experience

The energy was electric from the moment guests walked in. Victoria’s Secret didn’t hold back—offering everything from engraved perfume bottles and customized lingerie to personalized bracelets and chains.

Ruby Melton

Aug 61 min read

This commission was more than just a job—it was an invitation to witness and capture the bold, inclusive spirit that Spain is bringing to its official candidacy to host World Pride 2030 in Barcelona.

Spain for World Pride 2030: A Joyful Series of Celebrations in DC

I had the incredible honor of being commissioned by the Office of Tourism for Spain to visually document their three-part celebration for World Pride 2025 in Washington, DC.

Ruby Melton

Jun 252 min read

Power, Purpose, and Portraits: Documenting Emily’s List’s 40th Anniversary

Photographing Emily’s List’s 40th Anniversary Gala — and the private donor dinner the evening before — was an experience that delivered both in unforgettable ways.

Ruby Melton

May 183 min read

Behind the Lens: Bond Events x United Talent’s 8th Annual Celebration of America’s Journalist Party

Where Power Meets Glamour: Bond Events Sets the Scene for DC’s Most Stylish Media Celebration

Set inside the glowing heart of Georgetown at Osteria Mozza DC, this event was nothing short of cinematic. From the moment I stepped into the space, camera in hand, it was clear: this wasn’t just a party, it was a production—and Bond Events knows how to produce sexy, upscale magic.

Ruby Melton

May 182 min read

This wasn’t just any event. It was a summit designed to spark high-level conversations around the future of retirement, long-term investing, and building a financially secure tomorrow.

Inside the Room: Capturing the Icons of Leadership at BlackRock’s Retirement Summit

Some rooms just hit differently — where the energy is thick with intention, the guest list reads like a leadership summit dream team, and the conversations are a masterclass in vision, legacy, and innovation.

Ruby Melton

Apr 102 min read

March was one of those full-circle months that left me deeply grateful and creatively inspired.

From the Welcome Reception to Washingtonian Magazine: A March Full-Circle Moment

Some months in this journey as a photographer remind me exactly why I picked up the camera in the first place — to witness, to document, and to celebrate the energy of meaningful moments.

Ruby Melton

Apr 102 min read