Peninsula Mitzvah Photographer // Jacob’s bar mitzvah

While each bar/bat mitzvah is unique, there are similarities that make the day and rituals comforting and joyful to photograph.

Jacob and his family celebrated his bar mitzvah at Peninsula Temple Sholom in Burlingame. While each bar/bat mitzvah is unique, there are similarities that make the day and rituals comforting and joyful to photograph. For example, the typical mitzvah morning starts off with a portrait session for the immediate family and close relatives. If we are unable to photograph on Shabbat, we will take these photos during the rehearsal preceding the big day. I love taking these formal portraits with the bat/bar mitzvah at the bimah and with the Torah. They’re the iconic photos that families will cherish over time.

Three generations together surrounding Jacob with love and pride.Surprisingly, it was my first time photographing at Peninsula Temple Sholom. This beautiful synagogue features a grand ceiling with a wooden “kippah” in the center. Rabbi Dan Feder is an old friend of mine which made the Shabbat services thoroughly enjoyable. Rabbi Dan Feder and Cantor Barry Reich watching over Jacob chanting the Torah. Temple Sholom allows photography during the service which provides for candid moments on the bimah, passing the Torah from generation to generation, carrying the Torah through the congregation and reading the day’s portion.

After the service, everyone is ready for kiddush lunch. And, this one was amazing…featuring an eight foot long frosted challah and a dessert buffet table with treats any 13 year old would love.Candle lighting ceremony honoring friends and family.In the evening, Jacob and his guests continued the party at the Temple which was transformed into an elegant room ready for fun including the horah, dancing and games.