On Sunday, October 30, 2022, I had the pleasure of working with Austin and his family for his Bar Mitzvah Rehearsal at Beth Torah. The family arrived looking very sharp in their Bar Mitzvah outfits, and everyone was excited for the photoshoot ahead.

I began with a mini-session of Austin. He looked very handsome in his light blue suit and red tie. He was easy to work with, and we took a variety of standing and seated shots against different backdrops around the shul.

Next, I worked with Austin's younger brothers who were also a pleasure to work with. They were dressed in coordinating blue suits, and they looked very sharp and polished for their brother’s big day.

Once I had finished taking shots of Austin and his brothers, it was time to bring in his parents for some special photos with the Bar Mitzvah boy. It was very moving to see the pride and joy that Austin's parents demonstrated for their son, and I made sure to capture those tender moments on camera.

Next, I took shots of the whole family. Their special bond was a reminder of the power of family and the joy that comes with celebrating simchas together.

After immediate family photos, we moved inside for shots with Austin’s grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. Everyone looked so smart in their formal outfits, and I was able to capture some beautiful family portraits.

After extended family photos, I took Austin inside the main sanctuary for shots with the Torah. This part of the photoshoot is always very meaningful because parents often remember this moment - the moment when their child reads from the Torah - when they think back to their simcha.

After taking individual shots of Austin, it was time to bring in his brothers for sibling shots on the bima. I loved seeing the way Austin’s younger brothers looked up to him (both literally and figuratively) as he read from the Torah. They had an adorable bond which I made sure to capture.

I then invited Austin’s parents to come up to the bima. The candid shots of the family with the Torah were absolutely beautiful, and I have no doubt they will be treasured for years to come.

It was a lovely afternoon working with Austin and his family. Mazal Tov, Austin! Thank you for allowing me to capture your special day.

For Bar/Bat Mitzvah photography inquiries, please visit my website at justineapple.com or email me directly at hello@justineapple.com. I would love to work with you to create lasting memories that you and your family will cherish forever.