I first met this family about 18 months ago for a full family session. And when I say full, I mean it. (I think there were 13 kids and 6 adults!) I loved them immediately, their energy, their synergy, and their love of family. So it was a nice reunion when I got the opportunity to capture Andy’s bar mitzvah portraits.

It was a cold (freezing), rainy afternoon but we made the best of the weather and the kids were troopers smiling in between raindrops and wind.  Now that I’ve regained feeling in my fingertips I remember why I pushed the outdoor shots – they’re always better, regardless of the temperatures.

Andy proudly showed me the Torah cover that his  grandmother and aunt created by needlepoint. It’s more than exquisite and I love that each bar mitzvah boy in their family gets to read from the same Torah donated by their grandparents. Such a special way to link generations.

Andy loves sports. Mostly hockey, and only the New York Rangers. So when we finished our portraits and I snuck into the ballroom to say my farewells, I was amazed at how they wove his beloved team into their decor – yes those are hockey pucks for place cards!

Andy, your mom and I share the love of a favorite coffee, appreciation of the same books, and value of family. I’m thrilled she asked me to continue chronicling your family’s milestones and I can’t wait to see the wonderful teenager and adult you grow into.