Kenneth D. Aston Jr. Photographer

Stacy Brooks Sunday Blues Performance at Peerless Rens Club – Annapolis, MD

2025-10-01T19:53:00.004-04:00

On Sunday afternoon in the Eastport section of Annapolis, Maryland, the sound of the blues filled the air as the historic Peerless Rens Club hosted its Sunday Blues concert featuring Stacy Brooks, widely known as “DC’s Queen of the Blues.” As one of Annapolis’ oldest social and cultural landmarks, the Peerless Rens Club continues to serve as a gathering place where music, history, and community intersect.

Brooks delivered a powerful set blending classic blues standards with her own soulful interpretations, connecting with the audience in a way that felt both intimate and electric. Her voice carried through the hall with the kind of raw energy that makes live blues unforgettable.

Throughout the afternoon, club members welcomed guests, introduced Brooks, and shared announcements, creating a warm, community-centered atmosphere that reflected the spirit of the Peerless Rens Club.

More than just a concert, the event served as a reminder of the club’s legacy as a cultural anchor in Annapolis. Founded in the early 20th century, the Peerless Rens Club has long been a cornerstone of the city’s African American community. Located in Eastport, the club continues to provide a space for social connection, cultural expression, and celebration.

The Sunday Blues series carries that tradition forward, offering a stage for acclaimed artists like Stacy Brooks while bringing neighbors and music lovers together under one historic roof. With its mix of powerful live music, community pride, and deep-rooted history, the Peerless Rens Club proves that the blues in Annapolis isn’t fading — it’s thriving.

Follow Stacy Brooks, the Peerless Rens Club, and Aston Photography, LLC for more coverage of live music, arts, and community events in Annapolis

35th Annual Kunta Kinte Heritage Festival Celebrates Culture and Community in Annapolis

2025-09-16T20:39:00.008-04:00

The 35th Annual Kunta Kinte Heritage Festival at Navy–Marine Corps Memorial Stadium in Annapolis, Maryland, brought together music, culture, food, and community in a powerful celebration of heritage and identity.

This year’s theme, “Afrofuturism: Rooted in Heritage, Reaching for Tomorrow,” was visible throughout the festival grounds. Vendors showcased African-inspired clothing, handcrafted jewelry, books, and graphic novels that reflected both ancestral roots and forward-thinking creativity. Food vendors added to the experience with soul food, Caribbean cuisine, and local favorites, filling the stadium with unmistakable aromas and energy.

The stage performances set the rhythm for the day. The 2nd Nature Band opened with smooth grooves accompanied by an energetic tap dancer who immediately captured the crowd’s attention while Fritete African Drumming and Dance delivered powerful rhythms that echoed across the stadium grounds.

Headliner Joh B brought the crowd to its feet with a dynamic set that blended soul and stage presence. Following his performance, he remained on site for a meet-and-greet, signing autographs, taking photos, and connecting directly with fans — a reminder that festivals like this are built on community interaction as much as performance.

As evening approached, “In Gratitude,” the Earth, Wind & Fire tribute band, closed out the festival with timeless hits that had attendees dancing until sunset. The finale felt less like a concert ending and more like a communal celebration of shared history and joy.

Beyond the performances, the heart of the Kunta Kinte Heritage Festival was in the crowd — families dancing together, children exploring vendor booths, entrepreneurs proudly presenting their work, and neighbors reconnecting. Through my lens, I witnessed Afrofuturism not as an abstract theme, but as a living expression — where heritage and future vision met in real time.

Phillip E. Harrison Brings Live Aluminum Casting to Harmony & Heritage Block Party in Annapolis

2025-06-29T12:10:00.004-04:00

The smell of metal and the sound of curiosity filled the air at this year’s Harmony & Heritage Block Party outside the Banneker-Douglass-Tubman Museum. One of the most popular stops was Baltimore artist Phillip E. Harrison’s aluminum casting setup

People gathered around as Harrison moved between the molds and the furnace, calmly explaining the process while staying fully in the flow of it.

There was laughter, focused energy, and the occasional wide-eyed reaction when the molten aluminum poured out—bright, hot, and alive.

Kids and adults took part, scratching designs into black pucks that turned into shiny, personalized medallions. After cooling and a little cleanup, each piece revealed something meaningful, whether it was a symbol, initials, or just an abstract shape that felt right.

Phillip E. Harrison—also known as “Admiral”—is a Baltimore-based metal artist, educator, and judge on the Cast in Steel TV series. At the block party, though, he wasn’t performing or presenting—he was connecting.

Carr’s Beach Reunion Celebrates Black Heritage in Annapolis Despite Stormy Skies

2025-06-20T11:17:00.011-04:00

The skies were stormy, but the spirit never dimmed.

This year’s Carr’s Beach Reunion, originally planned for the historic Elktonia/Carr’s Beach waterfront site, moved indoors to the Roger “Pip” Moyer Recreation Center due to severe weather. Even under a roof instead of open sky, the energy of the Chesapeake’s legendary Black beach filled the room.

From the first note of music, it was clear this wasn’t just entertainment — it was history in motion. Pride. Memory. Celebration.

Clones of Funk, Stoney Ellis & Phaze II Band, and "Voices of Motown Philly" took the stage and delivered performances that had the crowd on its feet. Some danced. Some clapped. Others simply closed their eyes and let the music carry them. Everyone understood the deeper reason for gathering — to honor a place that once offered refuge, joy, and cultural power during segregation.

The atmosphere extended beyond the stage. Food trucks lined up outside while vendors filled the gym floor inside, offering soul food plates, desserts, handmade jewelry, art, books, and apparel. It wasn’t just commerce — it was culture circulating hand to hand.

For those unfamiliar, Carr’s Beach was far more than a summer destination. During the Jim Crow era, when Black families were barred from many public spaces, Carr’s Beach stood as a Black-owned resort and a major stop on the legendary Chitlin’ Circuit. Icons such as Duke Ellington, Sarah Vaughan, Chuck Berry, Buddy Holly, and James Brown once performed there. That legacy echoed in every beat played during the reunion.

Families brought folding chairs and shared stories. Elders reflected. Young people danced beside parents and grandparents. The room held generations connected not just by blood, but by shared history.

As a photographer, these are the moments I work to preserve — the movement, the laughter, the quiet pride, and the loud joy. The Carr’s Beach Reunion wasn’t simply relocated because of weather; it adapted and endured, just like the legacy it honors.

This wasn’t just a concert.

This was culture.
This was memory.
This was Annapolis.

“No Kings” Protest at Maryland State House Draws Peaceful Crowd in Annapolis

2025-06-20T10:03:00.003-04:00

You could feel it before you saw it. A quiet determination. A kind of unity that doesn’t need to shout to make itself known.

On June 15, I was at Lawyers Mall covering the No Kings protest at the Maryland State House. People from all walks of life came together — students, veterans, parents, community leaders — standing for democracy, voting rights, and fair courts.

Maryland Delegate Heather Bagnall

Miriam Figlio

There were speeches, poems, and plenty of handmade signs. Maryland Delegate Heather Bagnall spoke at Lawyers Mall as both an elected official and citizen organizer, helping guide the gathering. Local organizer Miriam Figlio stood among attendees, holding her protest sign high and making her voice visible in a simple, powerful way.

As I moved through the crowd, I kept noticing something — the American flag appeared in nearly every frame I shot. Not staged. Not propped. Just there. Flying overhead, held in hands, sewn onto jackets. A quiet symbol of what this gathering was really about.

As the crowd began to thin, one final frame stayed with me — a young girl crossing the street holding a sign that read “Kind to Everyone.” Shot at her level, it felt less like a protest image and more like a reminder. Sometimes the clearest messages are the simplest ones.

This is what democracy looks like: layered, local and alive.

2024-06-25T21:14:00.012-04:00

Annapolis Juneteenth Celebration

The Annapolis Juneteenth Celebration on June 22, 2024, was a vibrant showcase of culture, history, and community spirit. Held at Maryland Hall and Bates Sports Complex, the event kicked off with an energetic parade, featuring standout participants like the “Legendary” Baltimore All-Stars Marching Unit and the Naptown Brass Band. Members of fraternities and sororities, including Omega Psi Phi, Delta Sigma Theta, and Alpha Phi Alpha, added to the festivities, highlighting the important role Greek organizations play in community engagement.

The day was filled with diverse performances, from a powerful spoken word piece by Eric and Susan Kellum to an electric set by DJ Morris, aka "Lil Syxx." Former Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan even made an appearance. The festival grounds were alive with vendors selling cultural clothing, books, and more, bringing an extra layer of richness to the event.

This year’s celebration was a reminder of the resilience and empowerment that continues to define the African American community.

Kenny’s Stuff – Rediscovering My Air Force Negatives

2023-07-30T15:01:00.005-04:00

About a week ago, I picked up a box from my parents' house with a handwritten label that simply said, “Kenny’s Stuff.” I didn’t expect much—maybe some old paperwork or random keepsakes. But inside, I found something priceless: black-and-white negatives from the early 1980s and 1990s.

As I held them up to the light, I was instantly transported back to my time on active duty in the United States Air Force. I was a boat master, stationed at Homestead Air Force Base, Florida, with the 3613th Water Survival Squadron. Among those strips of film were images from a dive mission in Biscayne Bay, just south of Miami—real moments, captured with care, back when photography was all about instinct and timing.

Rediscovering these old snapshots has reignited my passion for analog photography. They’re more than images—they’re proof. Proof of where I was, what I saw, and how photography was already becoming a part of me, even if I didn’t fully realize it yet.

Each frame reminds me why I fell in love with this craft in the first place: it preserves raw, authentic memory. No filters. No algorithms. Just real life, frozen in silver.

Rediscovering My Old Negatives – A Photographer’s Time Capsule

2023-07-30T12:59:00.006-04:00

Opening a box of old negatives from 1982 to 1984, taken while I was attending Antonelli Institute in Philadelphia, felt like uncovering a personal time capsule. Just holding the sleeves in my hands took me back to those early days—being a student, constantly shooting, learning the craft, and seeing the world differently through the lens.

Scanning these images now, decades later, is like having a quiet conversation with my younger self. The frames aren’t perfect, but they carry something even more important—truth, emotion, and intent. They remind me what it felt like to create without pressure, just raw curiosity and love for the process.

Sharing them here is my way of honoring that journey. This isn't just nostalgia—it's a reflection on how much I’ve grown as an artist while staying true to the same desire to document, connect, and preserve moments.

Photography has always had the power to freeze time—and these negatives remind me that every frame I captured back then helped shape who I am behind the camera today.

3rd Annual Voices of History Street Fair

2017-07-10T21:56:00.003-04:00

(Baltimore, Md) July 8 2017. I embarked on an enriching journey to The National Great Blacks In Wax Museum in Baltimore, MD, to partake in the 3rd Annual History Street Fair. Armed with my camera, I was eager to capture the essence of this vibrant community event, and I was not disappointed. The fair was brimming with cultural richness, as vendors showcased an array of captivating merchandise, from original artwork and clothing to books and delectable cuisine. Amidst the lively atmosphere, visitors were treated to a thought-provoking performance by Wombwork Productions, Inc., masterfully led by Artistic Director Kay Lawal-Muhammad. The experience was nothing short of incredible, and I eagerly look forward to documenting more of Baltimore's captivating events in the future. Stay tuned for more images and stories, and be sure to join me on Instagram and Facebook to share in the magic of these moments.

Reading Is Fundamental : ONE AFRICA! ONE NATION

2015-10-21T15:38:00.004-04:00

(PHILADELPHIA, Pa) Oct. 21, 2015 The City of Philadelphia's decision to close schools and underfund libraries ignited a wave of citizen activism in the area. A non-profit organization, the African People's Education and Defense Fund (APEDF), emerged as a powerful force in advocating for the African community, creating programs for educational, health, and economic development. Their Uhuru Book Fair & Flea Market became a popular annual event held at the Clark Park in Philadelphia that drew people from all walks of life. The fair served as a platform for local vendors to sell their wares and for community members to come together, share ideas, and support one another. Overall, APEDF and its initiatives have worked towards creating a thriving community that values education, culture, and community-based action.

PHILLY IS BALTIMORE

2015-05-12T20:22:00.005-04:00

PHILADELPHIA, Pa.(May 12, 2015) In the wake of the tragic death of Freddie C. Gray Jr. on April 19, 2015, the city of Philadelphia stood in solidarity with Baltimore, showcasing the power of unity and empathy. Organized by the Philly Coalition for Real, the #PhillyIsBaltimore protest took center stage at Dilworth Park in front of Philadelphia City Hall. The demonstration was a poignant display of peaceful resistance, a profound message that Philadelphia shared in Baltimore's pain and grief. After a long day at work, I felt compelled to be a part of this movement and headed down to the protest. Armed with my camera, I captured moments of raw emotion, hope, and determination, witnessing firsthand the strength of community coming together to demand justice and change. It was a humbling experience, a reminder that in times of adversity, solidarity and compassion can transcend borders and resonate across the world.

Happy Madison our new horse.

2014-12-25T11:45:00.004-05:00

Today was a day filled with excitement and bonding as I joined my dad in preparing Happy Madison for an upcoming race and training session. The passion and dedication he has for harness horse training were evident as he meticulously tended to every detail. With my camera in hand, I captured the essence of his expertise and the strong bond he shares with these magnificent animals. Watching him work with Happy Madison was a true privilege, and spending those precious hours together at the stable created memories that I will cherish forever. My dad's commitment to his craft and the love he has for the horses are truly inspiring, and I am grateful for the opportunity to be a part of this thrilling journey with him.

A day of Love Park

2014-11-22T18:05:00.002-05:00

I spent a few hours at Love Park in Philadelphia a few months back waiting to cover an event and just wandered around the park capturing a few subjects, enjoy

Love Park Fountain

Bird

Skateboarder

Philly Jesus

The Lift Concert

2014-10-27T22:17:00.003-04:00

(PHILADELPHIA, Pa) Oct 27, 2017 "I Get This Feeling" by Fred Lane The Revelator, a talented Christian Hip Hop artist from Philadelphia, is a powerful anthem that carries a message of hope and unity. The song, along with the event "The Lift," was organized as a stand against the pervasive inner-city violence plaguing Philadelphia and its surrounding communities.

Joined by other socially conscious hip hop artists like Charlie "K," Samuel Delaghetto, Fatnice, 2NU, T.Coda, Doc Hero, and DJ Slim Cutta, the event was a moving showcase of musical talent and a call to end the cycle of violence.

The support from the Philadelphia community was remarkable, with guest speakers like Mrs. Best and political figures including 2nd District Councilman Kenyattta Johnson, Philadelphia District Attorney Seth Williams, and Senator Anthony Williams showing their solidarity. "The Lift" made a significant impact, and anticipation for the 2015 event is already building. Let's come together and be a part of this meaningful movement for change and awareness.

2NU

Charlie K

Councilman Kenyatta Johnson

District Attorney Seth Williams

Fred Lane The Revelator

The VIP Section

Jesus Showed Up

The Host, Konscience

Ms. Best Community organizer

Samuel Delaghetto

Charlie K (L), Fred Lane (C), and Senator Anthony Williams

The Bul Bey

DJ Slim Cutta on the wheels of steel

The Crew of The Lift

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Gallery | 2011 AJC Peachtree Road Race: Troops run overseas | Photo 6 | ajc.com

2014-09-06T14:55:00.001-04:00

Looks like I have been published!

While searching online for images I have taken I came across images I photographed for the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. I took these image for the Atlanta Peachtree run which was held at Camp Arifjan in Kuwait. Over 400 runners participated and included U.S. Military, contractors and Department of Defense civilians.

To view the images click on the link below.

Gallery | 2011 AJC Peachtree Road Race: Troops run overseas | Photo 6 | ajc.com

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Gallery | 2011 AJC Peachtree Road Race: Troops run overseas | Photo 6 | ajc.com

Itsy Bitsy Spider

2014-09-06T13:33:00.001-04:00

Found this lil guy hanging on my porch this morning while cleaning up. Not sure what sort of spider it is but it was fun photographing it.

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Gave me its "butt" to kiss

Got it to move around bit

Nice side view

iPhone-ography Images

2014-08-04T21:48:00.001-04:00

I wanted to show that "it's the eye behind the camera" that makes the photo. You have to have vision,artistic talent, and know a bit of photography.

I decided to post a few images I took with my iPhone along with a bit of tweeting using different photo apps. I think the smart phone camera can help to develop composition and creativity in some and will never replace a DSLR when it come to professional photography.

Feel free to comment and follow me on Twitter, Facebook and Google Plus

Flowering Plant, Voorhees NJ

Frosted brandy bottle

Flowering Plant, Palmyra NJ

New Jersey River-line Stop, Roebling NJ

Khrama Train, Cherry Hill NJ

Palmyra River-Line Tracks

Palmyra Cove Nature Park NJ

2014-07-26T14:39:00.002-04:00

Went out today and captured images of the insects that frequent the many types of flowers at Palmyra Cove Nature Park.

I was joined by fellow photographers from the Maple Shade-Moorestown Camera Club. It started to rain but soon the sun came out and so did the butterflies and other insects.

Thanks for viewing. Comments are welcomed and please follow me on Twitter and Facebook

Canon 5D Mark II
Canon 100mm EF L 2.8
Post editing: Lightroom 3

KHARMA TRAIN

2014-07-12T19:46:00.004-04:00

I have been following the band Kharma Train for a few months now and like their shows. The band covers a wide variety of songs from classic rock to todays current hits and can be found at many venues around South Jersey and Delaware and you can click on their name to find more show dates. Kharma Train includes: Lindsay Guarino, lead vocals; Ed Cleary, lead guitar; Vince Cuomo, percussions; John Keli, bass guitar and Fuzzyman, rhythm guitar. When they are in your area, attend, you will have a great time.
I have taken a few photos of the band using my iPhone and the app Instagram but this night I decided to bring out the "big guns" and use my Canon 5D Mark II and used two of my favorite lenses, the Canon 50mm "L" f/1.2 and Canon 100mm 2.8 L.
The venue was The Jug Handle Inn, in Cinnaminson New Jersey, has awesome wings by the way, is were the group performed. It was bit dark and I didn't want to annoy the guest by using a flash, so I decided to use available light. I used an ISO range of 2500 to 4000 and yes I didn't always use manual settings nor did I use automatic. I was very happy with how the 50mm preformed in such low light. I also photographed the entire show using the RAW file format which was a big help when editing with Lightroom. I was using the monochrome setting but when I imported into Lightroom, the images converted back to color, no worries, I just changed them back. I have uploaded a few here and comments are welcomed and hope to see you at the next show and thanks for viewing.

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Lindsey Guarino

Fuzzyman

Ed Cleary (L) and Lindsey Guarino

Vince Cuomo

John Keil

A fan dances to the beat of Khrama Train

iLookUSA Photoshoot Featuring Dominique Law

2014-05-26T18:52:00.000-04:00

iLookUSA newest Philadelphia based model Dominique Law.

Product photography for Lovecili.com

2014-01-28T21:41:00.000-05:00

I provided on location and studio photography for Carla Saunders, a Philadelphia based designer who specializes in custom made leather accessories. Carla has a unique style and her fashions have been featured on runways in New York and Philadelphia's fashion week.
Her website lovecili launched in early 2014 and is ready for business so stop by, take a look and place an order. Thanks for viewing!

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Veterans Day Celebration 2013, Cooper River Park Camden County NJ

2013-11-10T23:04:00.003-05:00

After being honorably discharged after 12 years of service with the United States Air Force, I am over joyed that business and communities are showing US Military Veterans so much "love" on Veterans Day. There are free meals at almost every restaurant in the area, Veterans Day parades, homecoming for those returning from duty, and celebrations honoring those that didn't return.
Camden County Veterans Island, Cooper River Park was the site of a ceremony today in honor of Veterans who served in the United States Military. Veterans Day 2013 ceremony was hosted by the Camden County Board of Freeholders and included guest speaker Command Sargent Major Thomas A. Holland USAR (RET) and Master of Ceremonies, United States Air Force Chaplain, Lieutenant Colonel Floyd L. White, Director Camden County Veterans Affairs.

Awards were presented to Camden County Veterans as well.

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Chaplain Lt. Col White III

Invocation given by George Kuhn, Chaplain Military Operations of the Purple Heart

Posting of the Colors, Marine Corps League, 1775 Detachment

United States Military Flags

Guest speaker Command Sargent Major Thomas A,. Holland USAR (RET)

Marty Seoter, Bugler, Camden County Honor Guard

Hammonton Photo Walk

2013-10-05T21:48:00.002-04:00

I was invited by a high school friend to attend the Worldwide Photowalk sponsored by Scott Kelby, Canon and Adobe and various other sponsors.

It was held at the Hammonton Arts Center in Hammonton, NJ. which is located on Rt 30 aka the White Horse Pike, I would recommend that you stop by and pay this very quaint town that is full of coffee shops, boutiques, taverns and plenty of friendly locals.

I will definitely be visiting this town again and I suggest if you're in the Southern New Jersey area and on your way to Atlantic City, stop by and pay them a visit.

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IlookUSA online Magazine shoot

2013-09-12T19:03:00.002-04:00

This shoot was a first for Amy and she is a true professional and loves the camera. For those interested in becoming a model for iLookUSA you can contact them here for a chance to win a free photo-shoot.
For other creatives, jewelry designers, actors, artists, and fashion designers iLookUSA is great way to showcase your work and promote your business.
You can like them on Facebook or follow them on Google Plus
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I NEED A JOB!

2013-08-22T16:06:00.000-04:00

Mark Mercer, has been unemployed since 2011 and after sending out 100's of resumes without any success he decided to think "outside the box". With his dogs in tow and a large "I Need a Job" sign, he set up in the city's financial district, and started his job search.

While I was there he was approached by a woman who accepted gladly took his resume and hopefully it will lead to permanent employment. I wish him luck and now I have to get back to making my sign!

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