Hello,


It's Sam from SB Creatives Photography here...


There’s something special about stepping into an event that seamlessly blends tradition, business, and vibrant cultural expression. As the photographer for the Australian Chinese Business Council (ACBC) Gala Dinner for Chinese New Year at Doltone House, Jones Bay Wharf, I had the privilege of capturing an evening that was as visually stunning as it was meaningful.


An Evening of Prestige and Celebration


From the moment I arrived, the air buzzed with excitement. The venue, set against the picturesque backdrop of Sydney Harbour, was transformed into a space of elegance and festivity. Business leaders, community figures, and dignitaries came together to celebrate the start of the Lunar New Year, a time deeply rooted in renewal, prosperity, and connection.


One of the evening’s highlights was the attendance of Governor-General Sam Mostyn, a testament to the significance of the ACBC and its role in strengthening relationships between Australia and China. Capturing her presence, alongside key business and community leaders, added a layer of prestige to the event photography.


Dragon Dancing: A Spectacle of Movement and Colour


No Chinese New Year celebration is complete without the thrilling spectacle of dragon dancing, and this event delivered in grand style. The performance was a whirlwind of colour, energy, and precision, with the dancers bringing the mythical creature to life. As a photographer, these moments were exhilarating to capture—each leap, turn, and flourish telling a story of tradition and artistry.


The challenge with dynamic performances like this is balancing motion and clarity. I focused on freezing key moments of the dragon’s fluid movement while also using a slower shutter speed in some shots to create a sense of motion, immersing viewers in the experience. The contrast between the vivid reds and golds of the costume against the warm lighting of Doltone House made for striking images.


Capturing Connections and Atmosphere


Beyond the grand performances and official speeches, my lens was drawn to the interactions—the warm handshakes, the laughter shared over dinner, and the moments of genuine engagement between guests. These unscripted interactions are what truly bring an event to life in photographs.

From posed portraits of distinguished guests to candid shots of people enjoying the night, my goal was to encapsulate the essence of the event—one that celebrated cultural heritage while fostering strong business ties.


A Night to Remember


As the evening wrapped up, I reflected on the privilege of documenting such a significant occasion. The ACBC Gala Dinner was not just a New Year celebration; it was a testament to the strength of relationships, the richness of tradition, and the promise of a prosperous year ahead.

For me, event photography is about storytelling, and this event told a powerful one. From the grandeur of the dragon dance to the presence of the Governor-General, every moment captured contributes to the legacy of the evening.


If you’re looking to capture your next event with the same level of detail, energy, and cultural sensitivity, SB Creatives Photography is here to help. Let’s bring your special moments to life through the lens!

A group of professionally dressed people pose together under a covered walkway wearing formal attire and business clothes.
Two women pose together at a formal event wearing elegant red dresses near a decorated dining table.
Group photo of people in formal and traditional attire standing together on a covered outdoor terrace.
A group in formal attire poses at the ACRC NSW Chinese New Year Gala 2025 event against a branded backdrop.
A businessman in a gray suit and purple shirt stands next to a Heritage Wharf building entrance.
A person poses in front of a step-and-repeat banner displaying ACRC NSW Chinese New Year Gala 2025 branding and sponsor logos.
Two professionals in business attire pose on an outdoor terrace with modern apartment buildings in the background.
Three professionals stand together smiling on a rooftop terrace with historic brick buildings in the background.
Person in patterned dress poses at Chinese New Year Gala event against branded media wall with sponsor logos.
Two women in contrasting outfits stand together on an outdoor terrace with city buildings in the background.
Group standing together on a rooftop terrace with city buildings and architecture in the background.
Two people stand on a terrace overlooking historic brick buildings and city architecture in the background.
Professional group photo of business people in formal attire standing on an outdoor deck with city views.
Two professionals in business attire, one in a dark suit and one in a bright red blazer, engaged in conversation.
Three people stand together at an outdoor event, holding drinks while wearing business attire.

Until Next Time...


Sam Babus


Founder and Photographer at SB Creatives Photography