9 tips on how to rock your Mitzvah party photos
You’ve spent countless months working for this big day to come and it is finally here… With any big life celebration comes a lot of moving parts. Some that you may have prepared for and some that might have slipped through the cracks. Using our experience in documenting countless Mitzvahs we have compiled a few tips that we have learnt along the way that will help you maximize your Mitzvah experience and photos.
Get your kids excited about the event and the photos!
If photos are important to you, and you don’t think your kids will be wildly into it, come up with a strategy to get them excited! Make a competition out of it.Tell them they each have to think of a photo to create and the best one gets a prize. Tell them you’ll give them some candy, or even a new pair of shoes or that new video game they waned if they play ball... In addition to the option of bribery, we are happy to work with you to make the photo session more fun. Tell us what your kids enjoy doing (dance, hockey, gymnastic, gaming, etc..) and we can try incorporate that into the photoshoot.
Make sure all the outfits are perfect!
You’d be surprised how many times the Bar Mitzvah boy has shown up in a custom fitted suit and white ankle socks, or the Bat Mitzvah girl still has hair elastics on their wrists. Give them a once over before leaving the house and heading to the venue and make sure everyone looks as stunning as you’ve always pictured.
Make sure you have the correct glasses!
As practical as transition glasses are, if you’re imagining some of your photos being outside, consider getting a new pair for the event. Non-glare glasses are most definitely the best for any outdoor photos.
Tell the extended family to show up a little earlier than expected!
As we all know; extended families work on “jewish time”. You guys know your siblings families best, so for those that are always late, tell them to show up 20 minutes early so they’ll end up showing up at the perfect time for their portraits.
Make sure you discuss with your planner/venue where you’d like to do photos at the event!
So often, people picture doing their photos on the custom dance floor, or using the beautiful finished room or some of the decor as a backdrop for the photos. But more times than not, the Decor company will only finish the room with minutes to spare before guests walk in. If the planner insists on having the room finished early then magically the room is ready on time for photos. Communicate what your vision is so that your vendors can make sure to bring it to life.
Don’t be afraid to bring props for your photo session
If the party is hockey themed, bring a hockey stick. If your child loves to play guitar, bring it with! We want to document you and your family during this special point in your lives. If there is something that allows your kids personalities to shine, make sure you bring it for the photos. If they love it, it will definitely make them smile ;)
Show up early!
If your photos are scheduled for 4:00pm, don’t show up at 4:00pm! Most families want to go check out the room, get settled in the venue, go look at the prizes, or head to the bar and have a drink. If you show up early, it allows for a much more relaxed environment before and during the photography session.
Dont stress!
You have hired the best trades people and vendors so that you can be present at your event and enjoy every second of it. You’ve spent tons of time planning, so now let everyone do their part to bring your vision to life! Stress shows in the photos, so take a deep breath, relax and have one of the best celebrations of your families lives!
Lead by example!
If you want your guests to dance, make sure you’re dancing. If you want the kids to dance, make sure your kids are dancing. If you want people to drink, then you should head to the bar and drink with them. People will follow your lead, so make sure you celebrate accordingly!
