Bar Mitzvah Photography
Your son's bar mitzvah in Israel is something I am sure you and your family have dedicated tons of time and resources to pulling off, so it is natural to want to capture all the details of the day or even your entire stay in Israel (for those engaged in full-on bar mitzvah tours). Israel provides the perfect backdrop for beautiful shots, and I am always honored when families choose me to be part of this event.
The Kotel (Western Wall) is the most popular choice for bar mitzvahs in Israel for its unparalleled historical significance and classic Jerusalem views. However, I have documented bar mitzvahs all over the country, and while the Kotel certainly has its advantages, there are a few unique features of a bar mitzvah at the Kotel that celebrants should be aware of. First and foremost is the gender separation; the Western Wall is divided into men’s and women’s galleries. As you will be able to see in several of the galleries below, the Torah reading itself takes place only in the men’s gallery. Women attendees will have to peek over the separating wall in order to catch the action.
A popular alternative location that enables all the family to celebrate together (no gender separation) is Ezrat Yisrael/Robinson’s Arch. For more information about this location, please visit this helpful guide.
Next, it is important to remember that the Kotel is a public place. Therefore, while your bar mitzvah will take place in one of Israel’s most emblematic locations, it will not be entirely private, if this is of concern to you. For some, part of the fun of a bar mitzvah at the Kotel is the spontaneous participation of onlookers who often join the prayer, dance, and general simcha of the event.
Lastly, the Kotel itself is outside and largely unsheltered. Weather is hardly ever a consideration in Israel, but keep in mind while planning your festive attire that the winter months will require an extra layer in order to celebrate comfortably. There is a wide variety of venues located in the immediate vicinity of the Kotel that make it easy to transition directly from the Torah reading to an inside venue for a meal and continued celebration. To get an idea of what to expect, you can see the variety of locations in this selection of bar mitzvah videos.
To see sample galleries, click on the thumbnails below.
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Testimonials
Barak was amazing! Do not even bother searching for another photographer or videographer for your event in Israel! I was very nervous since I never met him before, but a friend (who is type A) recommended him. Very professional. His team showed up on time with the highest quality equipment. Amazing photos and video. He is very artistic and personable. The video montage he made is just perfect. I couldn't be happier!
The Takefman Family
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Thank you, Barak, for the wonderful pictures from my son's Bar Mitzvah. It was so easy working with you, especially from New Jersey. From my first point of contact and many emails afterwards, you were always quick to respond. You were at Robinson's Arch early, in fact prior to our arrival, and you captured amazing pictures of my family that were then promptly sent to us. I am so happy that we chose to work with you. Your work is wonderful and my family will continually enjoy looking at the pictures from this special milestone day!
The Hammer Family
Firstly, I need to start off by saying that photography is my passion so finding the right photographer was an extremely important part of my boys B’nei Mitzvah. My consultant showed me four photographers and none of them met my expectations. So, I started searching online for someone who had the style I was looking for and came across Barak’s website. Immediately I knew he was the one. I emailed him right away and hoped he was available for our date. Luckily for me, he was.
Corresponding with Barak was a pleasure. His English was amazing and his response time was fast, and he was patient enough listen to all my crazy ideas and suggestions.
On the day of our B’nei mitzvah he was wonderful, working quietly and efficiently to capture all our precious moments. When we got our sample photo’s a few days later, we were blown away. His attention to detail big and small was breathtaking. My husband and I were thrilled. A few weeks later we got to see the video he put together for us. It was magical. Telling the complete story of our special day in a very creative and emotional way.
I would highly recommend Barak for any functions. He brings out the best in your special day.
Thank you so much for keeping these beautiful memories alive with your brilliant eye.
The Belavin Family
We were referred to Barak through friends who had used him a few years before our event. Our daughter's Bat Mitzvah was captured beautifully. Barak knew exactly how to maneuver seamlessly during the ceremony without us even knowing that he was taking photographs! He captured the most amazing and natural photos of our family. Thank you, Barak!