If your family is celebrating a Bar or Bat Mitzvah at Temple Judea, I’d be honored to be the one to document it. I’ve photographed many mitzvahs at this Tarzana synagogue over the years, and it’s always a joy to return. The sanctuary photographs beautifully, with warm tones, soft natural light, and thoughtful design elements that reflect the spirit of the community. Everyone I’ve met there has been welcoming and genuine, and every simcha I’ve documented has felt heartfelt, meaningful, and deeply rooted in tradition.
A Bar or Bat Mitzvah is such a powerful milestone in Jewish life. Whether your child is reading from the Torah, chanting their parashah, leading parts of the Shabbat morning service, or wrapping in the tallit with family looking on, I’ll be there to capture the pride, love, and emotion in the room. My photography style is a mix of editorial, documentary, and classic portraiture, so your final gallery will feel timeless, polished, and true to your family’s story.
We typically begin portraits about 90 minutes before the service. I like to start with the meaningful moments at the bimah, such as holding the Torah, opening the ark, or going over their tefilot. Then we ease into more relaxed portraits that show off their personality and confidence.
Family photos follow a similar flow. We’ll take the formal groupings first, then shift into more candid, connected moments. These in-betweens often end up being the most treasured photos. I also like to include a few magazine-style portraits that bring variety and personality to your gallery.
If photography isn’t allowed during the Shabbat service, we can schedule a weekday session inside the sanctuary ahead of time. That way, you’ll still have meaningful images of your child with the Torah and on the bimah, while honoring the sanctity of the service. If photography is permitted, I’ll quietly document the service as it unfolds, including the aliyot, Torah reading, and quiet interactions with clergy and family.
Once the service ends, it’s time to celebrate. Whether you’re hosting a festive kiddush at Temple Judea or planning a party at a nearby Los Angeles event venue, I’ll be there to document it all. That means real, candid photos of your child and their friends dancing, laughing, and playing games like Coke and Pepsi. From dancing the hora to candle lighting, heartfelt speeches, and hugs with the grandparents, I focus on the energy in the room and the joy on everyone’s faces. These are the moments you’ll want to remember and pass on to generations.
If you’re looking for photos to use for invitations, décor, or a slideshow, I also offer pre-mitzvah portrait sessions in the months leading up to the big day. These are relaxed, fun, and creative shoots that reflect your child’s interests and personality. I’ve done themed shoots in Venice, basketball-inspired sessions (including one where the mitzvah boy played a pickup game with the Rabbi and Cantor!), and graffiti backdrops downtown. I love making these sessions personal and fun. If your child has a creative vision, I’d love to help bring it to life.
And of course, the last step is designing your child’s album. A mitzvah photo album brings everything together and tells the full story of this important day. From portraits at the bimah to your favorite dance floor memories, this becomes a tangible keepsake your family can look back on for generations to come. I have many examples of past albums I can share, and would be happy to help you create something truly meaningful for your family.
It’s always a privilege to photograph such an important milestone. If you’re planning a Bar or Bat Mitzvah at Temple Judea in Tarzana, I’d love to document your celebration. Click the button below to get in touch.