If you're here, that means you've booked me to photograph your Mitzvah portraits at your Temple. After doing dozens of Temple shoots, I've learned a few tips and tricks for getting the best results, what makes Temple shoots different from other types of family photoshoots, and the most efficient way to edit these images so you get beautiful photos back quickly!
what's different about a temple shoot?
Typically, family photoshoots take place outdoors, in well-lit environments with pretty backgrounds. Out-of-focus beaches, trees, and fields are clutter-free backdrops that don't distract from the main subject: your family. Shooting in a synagogue's sanctuary is an entirely different experience. The indoor lighting is usually dim and limited to harsh overhead lights or what little natural light filters through stained glass windows. (This is why it's important to hire a photographer who is experienced with off-camera lighting equipment 🙋♀️.) Bimas can also be filled with clutter that you probably don't want to see in a family portrait -- think illuminated exit signs, microphones jutting out of podiums, and music stands leftover from the previous night's service. Some of these items can be moved out of the way before the portrait sessions begins, but many cannot.
The above image is an extreme example of the clutter that can find its way into a bima portrait. Notice the microphone (which in this case could not be removed), the plastic Israeli flags above the subject's head (temporary decorations for Israel's Independence Day), the speaker on the floor, and music stand in the background.
I can (and did) remove all of these distracting elements before delivering this photo to my client. However, when taking over 100 portraits during a temple shoot, it's time consuming to remove these elements from every photo I deliver, especially when most parents only want to print and share a handful of their favorite images from their portrait session. For this reason, I deliver a gallery of proofs after your temple shoot (most of which will already look great and require no additional editing) and ask you to choose up to 10 of your favorite images for additional retouching, should you want it. This helps me keep costs down and deliver your images faster, while still ensuring your favorite photos are edited to perfection -- a win-win!
tips for a successful shoot
Parents often ask me what everyone should wear at their family portrait session. The short answer is: whatever you want! Ideally, these will be photos that you treasure and return to for years to come, so you should wear clothes that reflect your personality, style, and make you feel confident. That being said, some families want a little more guidance for how to make their portraits look as timeless and polished as possible. If you fall into that category, here are a few tips:
Avoid Busy Patterns
Busy and tight patterns can be distracting, especially if two people happen to be wearing patterns that clash. As a general rule, avoid small polka dots, pinstripes, small checks, animal prints, etc.
Choose complimentary Colors
When dressing for family portraits, ensure that no one is wearing a bright color (think neon or hot pink) that clashes with the rest of your group. Better yet, you can plan to wear colors that pair well together.
Don't Forget to iron
A wrinkly dress or tallit can detract from a great photo. If you plan to wear clothing that wrinkles easily, take the time to iron or steam those items before your shoot, and avoid folding them tightly.
