I find it to be such an honor when someone asks me to be their mitzvah photographer. I truly enjoy capturing their family story on such a momentous day.

I love witnessing the culmination of all their hard work.

Mitzvah kids study Hebrew for years. They identify and perform a mitzvah project. Doing the mitzvah (volunteer) project is such an amazing way for kids to open their eyes to the world around them and learn about helping others. It’s so beautiful to watch young teens finding a way to give back.

And of course the mitzvah kids have the pressure of  preparing their Torah portion and their speech. I can’t even imagine leading a service at the tender age of 13! What an incredible accomplishment for these kids.

Emily did such a great job with all of her responsibilities. She handled her big day with grace.

Party Time

Emily’s party at  Austin’s Fuel Room  was definitely one to remember.  Energy Productions kept everyone out of their seats and dancing all afternoon. And I don’t think I will ever forget witnessing Emily’s little brother Ben singing “Baby Got Back.” Priceless! Who knew he was such a great little break dancer too?!

For many families, having a bar or bat mitzvah is the first time since their wedding that so many of their family and friends are all together in one place. You could literally feel the love in the room.

Winding Down

The entire room got on the dance floor for the last couple songs. Everywhere I looked the crowd was all smiles.

I know I wasn’t the only one who was sad when the party ended!

To see more mitzvah photography please click here. For more event photography, please click here. To see Chicago family photography, please click here, here and here.