In my time as a photojournalist, I have covered political action, music festivals and average goings on around Tulane University’s campus. But last week, I jumped at the chance to photograph the upcoming Tulane University Multi-Cultural Fashion Show on April 27.

I showed up early to meet with lead organizer Paresh Kolluru. I then roamed the main room and the makeshift backstage in the Qatar Ballroom. Before the show began, many of the models grabbed multicultural food from the snack bar.

As the cocktail party ended, and people found their way to seats, I walked backstage with the models as they lined up and prepared for what was to become one of the most rapid-fire events I have worked yet.

It happened in a flash. As quickly as they stepped on the runway, they were off. Each piece was so different from the last, a massive tapestry of the cultures and histories. The textures were magnificent. I could barely keep up and photograph details before I had to get the next piece. Before I got a chance to rest, though, I was back in the thick of it as the models came out to mingle with the audience, take pictures and dance. The best was yet to come.