Chen’s work to define the visual identity of the Show through signage, marketing, and exclusive installations

From drift tracks to concours lawns, photographer Larry Chen has spent two decades capturing the heartbeat of car culture. Now, he brings that passion to the SEMA Show as the newly named Featured SEMA Show Artist, offering fans and the global aftermarket a chance to experience the Show through his lens and meet him in person. The 2025 SEMA Show takes place Nov. 4-7, 2025, in Las Vegas, Nev.

Chen’s influence spans decades, with his work featured in top publications and collaborations with major OEMs, builders, and motorsport series. In 2022, he was honored as the inaugural SEMA Content Creator of the Year, recognizing his impact on the industry and his ability to connect with enthusiasts across generations. Earlier this year, Chen was inducted into the Formula Drift Hall of Fame, the first non-driver to be honored, celebrating his role in capturing the sport’s most electrifying moments.

“Larry Chen’s work transcends photography; it’s a cultural archive of the automotive world,” said SEMA Vice President of Events Tom Gattuso. “His appointment as Featured SEMA Show Artist reflects our commitment to celebrating the innovation and storytelling that drive this industry forward.”

Adding to his legacy, Chen is set to release his debut book, Life at Shutter Speed, a 400-page coffee table masterpiece chronicling 20 years of automotive photography. Featuring over 2,700 images and behind-the-scenes stories, the book is a tribute to the global car culture he has helped define.

“Photography is more than capturing cars, it’s about capturing moments, emotion, and movement,” said Chen. “I’m honored to help shape the visual identity of the Show and bring its energy to life.”

Chen is the first photographer ever selected as Featured SEMA Show Artist, joining a prestigious roster of creatives who have held the title since the program’s inception. The Show selects a new Featured Artist every three years, and Chen becomes the fifth artist to receive the honor, joining an illustrious list that includes Max Grundy, Ed Tillrock, Alex Carmona, and Chip Foose.

His work will be woven throughout the Show’s visual identity, appearing in signage, marketing materials, and exclusive installations that reflect the energy, diversity, and craftsmanship of the automotive community.

In addition to his role as Featured Artist, Chen will also be an exhibitor at the Show, giving attendees the opportunity to meet him in person, purchase signed copies of his new book, and explore a curated selection of his most iconic photography. His booth will feature daily giveaways of exclusive prints, allowing fans to take home a piece of his work. Attendees can also experience a fully interactive photo booth, where they and their friends can pose for photos and walk away with both digital and printed keepsakes, a unique way to capture their time at the Show and connect with the culture Chen has spent years documenting.

“Larry has been an icon in the industry and fixture at the SEMA Show for years, and now we’re thrilled to collaborate with him,” said SEMA Trade Show Director Andy Tompkins. “From Show signage to marketing campaigns, his imagery will be everywhere, bringing a fresh, authentic perspective to the Show.”

Qualified attendees are encouraged to register now to secure discounted rates and maximize their ROI. Registration is $75 through Sept. 26. Hotel reservations at guaranteed low rates are available exclusively through SEMA’s official hotel provider, onPeak.

Spaces are still available for companies interested in exhibiting and connecting with tens of thousands of qualified buyers. For more information, visit www.semashow.com/exhibitor.

About SEMA and the SEMA Show

The SEMA Show is a trade show produced by the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), a nonprofit trade association founded in 1963. Since the first SEMA Show debuted in 1967, the annual event has served as the leading venue bringing together manufacturers and buyers within the automotive specialty equipment industry. Products featured at the SEMA Show include those that enhance the styling, functionality, comfort, convenience and safety of cars and trucks.

Additional details are available at www.semashow.com or www.sema.org.

Tagged: Auto Photography

Legendary Automotive Photographer Larry Chen Named Featured SEMA Show Artist