If your family is planning a Bar or Bat Mitzvah at Candela La Brea Event Venue, I’d be honored to help document it. Located in the heart of Los Angeles, Candela La Brea is a vibrant and modern venue that easily transforms to reflect your child’s personality and celebration style. Whether you're planning a high-energy party with a custom logo, swag, and sushi bar, or something more intimate and low-key, this versatile space is up for the challenge.
Bar and Bat Mitzvahs are such important milestones in Jewish life. From putting on a tallit and chanting the parashah to leading blessings and reading from the Torah, my goal is to document the significance of the service alongside the fun of the celebration. I blend classic portraiture with editorial and documentary photography so your gallery reflects the full experience—meaningful, exciting, and true to your family.
Every event is unique, but we typically begin with portraits about 90 minutes before the service. This includes bimah portraits if a temporary setup is included at the venue, or portraits with ritual items like the Torah or tallit. We then move into relaxed, expressive portraits of your child, and family photos that range from traditional groupings to candid, connection-filled moments.
Depending on your service format, I may photograph the ceremony in full—including aliyot, blessings, and personal interactions between your child and clergy or loved ones. If the service took place earlier or off-site, we can still capture portraits that highlight the spiritual side of the celebration.
The celebration at Candela La Brea is where the energy really takes off. Whether you're hosting a luncheon or evening party, I document it all: the hora, games like Coke and Pepsi, the custom swag table, creative balloon installations, candle lighting, dance floor moments, and all the hugs, high-fives, and spontaneous laughter in between. I focus on the joy and emotion as it unfolds, so you can remember exactly what the day felt like.
If you want photos for a slideshow, invitations, or event decor, I also offer pre-mitzvah portrait sessions. These are a fun opportunity to spotlight your child’s interests, style, and personality, from a downtown LA shoot to something sporty or colorful. I love tailoring each session to the family.
Once your gallery is complete, we can design a custom album that tells the story of your child’s big day. These albums become treasured keepsakes and are a wonderful way to share memories with extended family for years to come. I’ll guide you through the process and help make it truly special.
Photographing a Bar or Bat Mitzvah is always an honor. If you're planning one at Candela La Brea, I’d be thrilled to be part of your team.
Planner: Dana Goldstein
Owner/designer: Serendipity Studio
Event Planning & Floral Design: Serendipity
Sushi: Sushi Catering Tom
Catering: Fundamental Events
Swag: Custom Crafts By NA
Logo: Meredith Landau
Ballons: On Occasion