The White Cross Ball of New York City is one of the city’s most distinguished charity galas, hosted annually at the historic Metropolitan Club in New York City. Known for its philanthropic mission and black-tie elegance, the White Cross Ball brings together New York’s cultural, business, and social leaders for an evening rooted in tradition, generosity, and timeless sophistication.
Held at the Metropolitan Club, a landmark Gilded Age venue on the Upper East Side, the event reflected the grandeur and refinement associated with New York City’s most iconic private clubs. Ornate interiors, classical architecture, and formal dress created the perfect setting for a luxury charity event in NYC.
As part of the White Cross Ball charity auction, I donated several photography experiences to support the organization’s mission, including eight hours of wedding photography, engagement photoshoots, and family photography sessions. These auction items were designed to offer guests meaningful, lasting experiences while contributing directly to the charitable cause behind the White Cross Ball of New York City.
In addition to supporting the auction, I created a dedicated photo corner at the White Cross Ball, complete with professional studio lighting. The setup was inspired by the Gilded Age aesthetic, using controlled lighting and refined composition to create elegant, timeless portraits for guests throughout the evening. This studio-style photo experience allowed attendees to step into a classic New York portrait environment while maintaining the formal atmosphere of the gala.
Photographing the White Cross Ball at the Metropolitan Club highlights the importance of thoughtful event photography for charity galas in New York City. From formal portraits and candid moments to architectural details and guest interactions, luxury event photography plays a key role in preserving the legacy and impact of philanthropic events like the White Cross Ball.
The White Cross Ball of New York City remains a cornerstone of NYC’s charitable and social calendar, combining history, generosity, and refined celebration at one of the city’s most prestigious venues.
The event was photographed using professional photography equipment suited for luxury event and gala photography in New York City. I worked with the Sony Alpha a7R V, a high-resolution mirrorless camera ideal for editorial and documentary event photography, paired with premium Sony G Master prime lenses, including the 24–70mm f/2.8 GMand 35mm f/1.4 GM. This combination allowed for exceptional sharpness, depth, and flexibility in both candid and formal portraits throughout the evening.
For lighting, I used Godox professional flash equipment with a large softbox to create soft, controlled light inspired by classic studio portraiture. This lighting setup was essential for the photo corner, delivering clean skin tones, elegant contrast, and a timeless look consistent with Gilded Age–inspired photography. The balance of natural ambient light and refined flash lighting ensured cohesive, editorial-quality images across the Metropolitan Club setting.
Supporting critical humanitarian efforts
Formed in 2014, the St. John Committee raises vital funds for the Sovereign Military Hospitaller Order of Saint John of Jerusalem of Rhodes and of Malta’s humanitarian efforts around the world. Led and run entirely by volunteers, our work directly supports the most vulnerable among us.
The Order of Malta is one of the oldest institutions of Western and Christian civilization. A lay religious order of the Catholic Church since 1113 and a subject of international law, the Sovereign Order of Malta has diplomatic relations with over 100 states and the European Union, and permanent observer status at the United Nations. It is neutral, impartial and apolitical. Today, the Order of Malta is active in 120 countries caring for people in need through its medical, social and humanitarian works. Across the world, the Order of Malta is dedicated to the preservation of human dignity and the care of all those in need, regardless of their origin or religion.
The Committee operates under the aegis of the Order of Malta American Association, which is registered in the United States as a tax-exempt §501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation, and is run under the Association’s NYC Area.
Michael-Dominic Maramba Espiritu, MD , Mercedes de Guardiola
