Allegra’s Bat Mitzvah: June 26, 2026 I have known Yossi for many years, so I was really happy when he asked me to photograph his daughter Allegra’s bat mitzvah, the last one before the summer break. And what a fantastic way to wrap up the season.  The celebration was held at New Age Events, with a refreshingly non traditional vibe. There were lots of games and bedazzling, but no dancers or prize giveaways, which made it feel unique and a whole lot of fun.  I took Allegra for a little walk when I first arrived, wandering around the front of New Age which, for those who don’t know, is a showroom full of some pretty cool home stuff. We explored until the rest of the family joined us for the pre ceremony photos.  Then it was time for the bat mitzvah, and wouldn’t you know it, Yossi was on deck to lead the service. Allegra spoke beautifully, charming, poised, and graceful to a T.  After the ceremony, it was all about having fun. Games everywhere, delicious food, an ice cream truck, because apparently there is no such thing as a bad time for ice cream.  Just a wonderful celebration from beginning to end.  Mazel […]
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Chloe’s Bat Mitzvah: June 20, 2026 Chloe’s Bat Mitzvah day was something special. Beautiful people, a charming mitzvah kid, a cool big brother, a fabulous venue, a charismatic cantor, fabulous food, and melodic music all came together to create a wonderful celebration.  I took Chloe for a little walk around the house before the festivities began. The space was tight but completely workable. The sun was putting on quite a show and was almost too bright at times. As much as we all prefer sunshine to rain, it did mean we had to do a little exploring to find the best spots for photos.  Chloe made the job easy. She was relaxed, fun, and fully enjoying her special day. Add some immediate family, a collection of extended family, and before long we had ourselves a photoshoot.  Once we wrapped up the portraits, we headed off to Tutto Pronto for the ceremony. Arlene Moshe was in charge and, as anyone who knows Arlene would expect, she was very much in charge. The ceremony was warm, meaningful, and filled with plenty of smiles.  Following the ceremony came one of my favourite Jewish traditions; delicious food and great music. Guests settled in for an afternoon of warm […]
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Eli & Penina’s B’nei Mitzvah Rehearsal: June 15, 2026 Eli and Penina celebrated their B’nei Mitzvah rehearsal at Congregation Darchei Noam on a beautiful early summer day in Toronto. The weather showed up ready to work and so did everyone else.  I met the family at the synagogue and we immediately headed outside to photograph these two delightful kids before inviting the parents to join us. Once everyone was on board, we simply enjoyed the sunshine and captured some fun family photos.  Afterwards, we headed inside where Rabbi Adam had the torah waiting for us, and the kids nailed that too. With the rehearsal complete, everyone could turn their attention to Saturday morning’s simcha.  Mazel tov, guys. It was a pleasure. . The Story of Eli & Penina’s B’nei Mitzvah Rehearsal: Selected Photos: HERE All the Photos: HERE  
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Ben’s Bar Mitzvah Rehearsal – June 14, 2026 Ben’s Bar Mitzvah rehearsal took place at Adath Israel, a synagogue close to my heart and one in which I always enjoy photographing.  We started with some photos of Ben with the torah before inviting the family to join in for a few carefully curated Kardashian style portraits, and some photos with the torah. Our plan of course was to head outside into the garden of Adeth Israel but the weather had other ideas for us, so after our quick sprint outside, we opted for photos inside rather  than testing our luck with the rain. Fortunately, Adath Israel never disappoints. The architecture, the light, and those classic silhouette opportunities were all waiting for us.  Before long, we had everything we needed and were wrapped for the day.  Mazel tov, guys, a fun rehearsal. . The Story of Ben’s Bat Mitzvah: Selected Photos: HERE All the Photos: HERE  
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Aria’s Bat Mitzvah Rehearsal & Lunch: June 13, 2026 Aria’s Bat Mitzvah rehearsal and lunch were an absolute blast. This was my third time around photographing this family and everyone had grown up considerably since the last time I saw them.  There was little Aria, whom I first met many years ago and many inches ago. Now here she a, a poised young woman preparing for her Bat Mitzvah.  I met the family at the Beth Radom for the rehearsal, where Aria was simply delightful. She read from the Torah with confidence and grace, making it all look easy. After photos with the Torah, grandparents, siblings, and immediate family, we wrapped up our synagogue session and called it a day.  Fast forward to the next afternoon, post mitzvah, were we gathered at Mezzanotte Restaurant for a delicious lunch, and plenty of reasons to celebrate Aria. It was a warm and joyful afternoon filled with great food, a little Kahoot, card games, a lively hora, and lots of laughter.  A beautiful celebration for a wonderful young woman. Mazel tov, guys. What a special weekend. . The Story of Aria’s Bat Mitzvah Rehearsal & Lunch: Selected Photos: HERE All the Photos: HERE    
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Holden’s Bar Mitzvah: June 13, 2026 Holden’s Bar Mitzvah rehearsal and party were a fantastic throwback to my camp days.  The rehearsal took place at Holy Blossom, one of my favourite synagogues in the city to photograph. Everything came together effortlessly. Everyone was good to go, the light was beautiful, and the whole photo-session had an easy rhythm to it.  After the rehearsal, we headed over to Cedarvale Park where greenery abounds. It is one of my favourite spots for family photos and, as usual, it did not disappoint. We wandered through the park, found some great light, and captured a wonderful selection of family portraits before calling it a day.  Fast forward past the Bar Mitzvah itself and we arrived at Longboat Hall for the evening celebration. Welcome to Camp Holden.  Holden and I slipped outside for a quick walk around the neighbourhood. Queen Street and Dovercourt provided the backdrop, giving us plenty of urban texture, streetcars, cars, pedestrians, and all the city energy you could ask for. I soon invited the family to join us and together we absolutely nailed the outdoor portraits. Extended family jumped in as well before we wrapped up outside and headed indoors.  Inside, Dave […]
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Zama’s Bat Mitzvah: May 30, 2026 I met Zama a few months earlier while photographing another mitzvah, and I had been looking forward to seeing her again ever since. Being fellow South Africans was a pretty good place to start.  We met at Adath Israel for a rehearsal photo session. We brought out the Torah, did everything we needed to do, and then took a little stroll around the synagogue for some fun photos. Zama is a very special kid with a fantastic personality, and we had a great time together.  Fast forward to party night at The Avenue. The venue has undergone some fantastic renovations over the past few years and has become a beautiful space to photograph. Bright walls, gorgeous lighting, and endless possibilities for great images.  Before the party kicked off, Zama, her mom, and I snuck outside for a few outside photos. We wandered around, laughed a lot, and just had fun. Then her friends arrived and my influence over Zama immediately disappeared, as it should.  There was plenty of schmoozing before everyone headed into the party. Sole Power was on deck to take things to the next level, and they absolutely delivered. Great energy, fantastic prizes, […]
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Ellie’s Bat Mitzvah: June 13, 2026 Ellie’s Bat Mitzvah was a two part celebration. First came the rehearsal at Temple Kol Ami in Thornhill, a synagogue I had not visited in quite some time. It was wonderful to be back in such a warm and welcoming space.  Ellie was fantastic. She is full of personality, wonderfully sassy, and completely comfortable being herself. We spent the some time wandering around, laughing, and having fun before inviting her parents into the festivities. Giggles were very much the theme of the day.  After spending some time with the Torah, we headed outside for family photos and more fun. The weather cooperated, everyone was in great spirits, and it made for a beautiful rehearsal session.  A week later, we reconvened at The Bomond for the party. If the rehearsal was any indication of what was to come, we knew we were in for a good time.  The Bomond is a Russian restaurant and event space. If you’ve ever been to a Russian restaurant, this will feel very familiar. Food arrives at the table and never leaves. The first course ends up beneath the second course, which is beneath the third course, which is beneath […]
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Eddie’s Bar Mitzvah: May 30, 2026 Eddie’s Bar Mitzvah began at Congregation Habonim on a Saturday morning, one of my favourite places in the city to photograph. We wandered around outside for a while, making the most of the beautiful morning light before Adam and the rest of the family joined us for portraits. It was all fun, games, and good energy.  Once we’d wrapped up our outdoor adventures, we invited the extended family into the back alcove for family photos. Meanwhile, Rabbi Audrey was busy preparing for the ceremony and getting everything ready. After a short rehearsal for Eddie, we were underway.  A delightful ceremony followed. Rabbi Audrey is charismatic, warm, and wonderfully engaging, guiding the congregation with grace and humour. After the traditional candy throwing and prayers over the challah, we made our way to a delicious brunch in the adjacent dining room.  There were plenty of fun photos with Eddie, his friends, siblings, parents, and extended family. Add in some heartfelt speeches, lots of laughter, and before we knew it, the day had come to a close.  Way to go, everyone. A lovely Bar Mitzvah and a fantastic day all around. . The Story of Eddie’s Bar […]
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Chelsea’s Bat Mitzvah Party: May 31, 2026 Chelsea’s Bat Mitzvah celebration took place at Venue 68, a location I had never photographed before and one I had been looking forward to visiting for months. Perched 68 floors above the city, the views were absolutely spectacular. Everywhere you looked there was another incredible backdrop.  Chelsea looked amazing. The room looked amazing. The guests looked amazing. It was the perfect start to an amazing evening.  We spent some time taking photos around the venue before adding her sister, parents, and eventually the extended family as they arrived. Inside, the room was being prepared and it felt very ‘Chelsea’ from the moment you walked in.  We hung around outside for a bit, chatting and taking advantage of the scenery, before Magen Boys called everyone in for the party. With Slinky on the mic and Monaco behind the board, things were about to get lively.  The hora was energetic, the speeches were heartfelt, the food was delicious, and the dance floor stayed packed. As the sun dipped below the skyline, we were treated to some spectacular photo opportunities.  At the centre of it all was Chelsea, soaking in every moment of an unforgettable night.  […]
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Olivia & Bella’s B’nei Mitzvah: May 23, 2026 I had the best time with Olivia and Bella over two days.  We first met at the Narayever Synagogue for their rehearsal a few days before their b’nei mitzvah. The girls were delightful. Doing everything in sync and together, they really nailed this whole mitzvah thing. We wrapped up the rehearsal with the Torah, then wandered across the street to a little parkette for some family photos. A few portraits of the girls, some shots with the family, and just like that, the rehearsal portion of our adventure was complete.  Fast forward to the post ceremony lunch at Piano Piano. This gorgeous little bistro in my neighbourhood, and yes, both the synagogue and Piano Piano are five minutes from my house, I highly recommend that commute.  The food was delicious, the speeches were heartfelt, and the atmosphere was warm and joyful. It was the perfect setting for a family celebration. Before long, this mitzvah was in the books and everyone could take a well deserved breath.  Mazel tov, Olivia and Bella. What a wonderful celebration. . The Story of Bella & Olivia’s B’nei Mitzvah Rehearsal and Lunch: Selected Photos: HERE All the Photos: HERE  
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Tali’s Bat Mitzvah: May 23, 2026 Tali’s Bat Mitzvah rehearsal and party was a blast.  We met at Temple Emanu-El, a synagogue I had not visited in about ten years, but wow, this place delivers. Beautiful rolling lawns, lush gardens, stunning architecture, and endless photo opportunities. It is one of those locations that makes photography feel easy, and I loved it.  I took Tali for a little wander around the grounds for her own private photo shoot before inviting her siblings and parents to join us. We even squeezed in a few photos with the grandparents, a spectacular way to wrap up the rehearsal.  Fast forward a couple of days to Saturday and the party at the Donalda Club. If you recall, this was the day Toronto decided to unleash the heavens. The rain came down in buckets, so outdoor photos were definitely off the table, no matter how tempting the grounds looked.  Instead, I set up my lights in the beautiful sitting room at the club, one of my favourite spots for what I affectionately call ‘Sopranos style portraits’. Today was no exception. We simply had to be The Sopranos. There was no other way.  Once the photos were done, Slinky […]
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Jacob & Matt’s B’nei Mitzvah: May 17, 2026 Matthew and Jacob’s b’nai mitzvah was a delightful two part affair. The morning took place at Beth David in the large sanctuary and the evening celebration was held at The eZone, but let us begin at the beginning.  I met the boys and their family at Beth David for some one on one photography before the ceremony. The boys were in fine spirits, doing their thing and enjoying every minute. These lovely lads were sport long flowing hair, something I do not see very often in today’s mitzvah boy crowd, so props to them, quirky and gregarious is a wonderful combination.  We wandered around outside snapping away before the rest of the immediate family joined us… and that was far from the end of it. Before long I was photographing groups of thirty people outside the synagogue, a very large contingent by portrait standards.  Once the photos were wrapped up, we headed inside for the ceremony. The boys did marvellously, making everyone proud and leaving many in attendance with very large smiles. After the obligatory candy tossing, we made our way to lunch where guests enjoyed a delicious meal accompanied by some delightful jazz piano […]
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Owen’s Bar Mitzvah: May 21, 2026 Owen’s bar mitzvah took place at Beth Emeth on a beautiful Thursday morning, Toronto summer had officially arrived. Bright blue skies, sunshine everywhere, and not a drop of rain in sight.  I took Owen outside the synagogue for a little wander while the parents got everything organized within. I’ve known this kid since he was young, back from his sister’s bat mitzvah days, and it’s been wonderful watching him grow into such a terrific young man.  We brought the immediate family outside for photos, and of course one giant extended family shot before heading into the small sanctuary at Beth Emeth. I love this room, it’s cosy, relaxed, intimate, and everyone feels part of the experience.  Owen made everyone proud. He read beautifully from the Torah and carried himself with warmth and confidence throughout the ceremony.  Afterwards we headed back to the family home for a spectacular lunch catered by JP Catering, and some warm speeches, a lovely inclusive atmosphere, and one very proud family celebrating a big milestone.  Mazel Tov guys. Way to go. . The Story of Owen’s Bar Mitzvah: Selected Photos: HERE All the Photos: HERE
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Mozie & Rachel’s Engagement Party: May 24, 2026 What can I say about Mozie and Rachael? This was an engagement party to end all engagement parties. It took place at The Factory, which just so happens to be where these two first met. Right away you knew this was going to be a fabulous evening.  Mozie’s university roommate Adam was spinning discs and brought the house down… with tunes. Great music, fabulous food, and just an all around fantastic vibe for two wonderful people.  We started off with family photos and portraits of all the special people in their lives, but very quickly the formalities disappeared and the party mode kicked in. There were fans everywhere, laughter everywhere, and after the hora things got gloriously wild.  Honestly, just take a look at the fun.  Mazal Tov guys. Way to go. . All the Photos: HERE  
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Max’s Family in the Park: May 9 2026 Many months since I last photograph this family, and this photo shoot in the park wrapped it up beautifully. We just had fun end of story. The pictures speak for themselves. Lovely to see you guys again.  Enjoy.   The Story of the Day: Selected Photos: HERE All the Photos: HERE
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Mara’s Bat Mitzvah: May 3, 2026 We had a fabulous time downtown in Liberty Village with Mara and her crew on Sunday night. I love shooting in the city, there is always something interesting around the corner and a new angle waiting to happen.  Mara was in fine form on this lovely spring afternoon. We managed to get everything done outside before the rain showed up, which in Toronto this time of year feels like a small miracle. Immediate family photos done, we headed into Nodo Restaurant to wrap the extended family.  Then came the ceremony. Arlene Moshe brought her warm and intimate style downtown and we all found ourselves tucked into what might be the coziest sanctuary I have ever photographed. Tight quarters, big energy.  Mara was fantastic. She read beautifully, looked completely at ease, and made everyone proud. Smiles, candy, laughter, a lot of giggling, exactly what you want.  Quick room flip, dinner rolls out, and just like that the night keeps going. Mazel tov guys, you nailed it. . The Story of Mara’s Bat Mitzvah: Selected Photos: HERE All the Photos: HERE
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Nathan’s Bar Mitzvah: May 2, 2026 Another adventure up to Richmond Hill Golf & Country Club on a spring morning that decided to surprise us with a little snow. Not something you expect when planning a May bar mitzvah, but here we are.  We made it outside for photos anyway, grabbed what we needed with Nathan and the family, then headed in to finish extended family portraits. Nathan was looking sharp and totally in the zone.  The ceremony was led by his aunt Shira, which always adds that extra layer of meaning. Everyone showed up ready, from the readings to the candy tossing. Great energy across the board.  Post ceremony we rolled straight into what can only be described as a top tier party-brunch-lunch. This place never misses. Speeches, slideshow, and then Magen Boys turned the morning into a full blown party, Slinky on the mic doing what he does best.  Great food, lots of dancing, candy flying, prizes everywhere. A Saturday night vibe somehow happening before noon. Mazel tov guys, what a day. . The Story of Nathan’s Bat Mitzvah: Selected Photos: HERE All the Photos: HERE  
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Annie’s Bat Mitzvah: May 2, 2026 Back with dear friends for round two at the Gardiner Museum, two years since the tri-mitzvah. Now it was Annie’s moment and this one came in hot.  We started outside while Toronto decided to remind us it is not quite done with winter. It was cold. Proper cold. We moved fast, in and out, grabbing what we needed before the sun dipped.  Upstairs, the ceremony was about to begin, Aviva Rajski, who always brings warmth, energy, and heart, was on hand to deliver this young woman into adulthood. Annie was stellar, poised, confident, and completely present. She spoke beautifully and there were more than a few emotional moments in the room.  Candy, hugs, schmoozing, then downstairs for the party. Tiffany from Bounce Entertainment took over and I will say it again, there is no one better for this crowd, the dance floor proved it within minutes.  We ate, we danced, we photoboothed, we kept it going right to the end. Mazel tov guys, what a night. . The Story of Annie’s Bat Mitzvah: Selected Photos: HERE All the Photos: HERE  
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Jenny’s Bat Mitzvah: May 1, 2026 Friday night up at The Symes and the weather actually cooperated for once. We got most of the photography done outside, which felt like a win right away.  Jenny was fantastic; relaxed, happy, just enjoying being in front of the camera. Add in the family and everything clicked into place quickly.  After extended family photos it was time for the ceremony. Cantor Moshe Saadon led things with the ease of someone who has done this a time or two. Smooth, meaningful, beautifully undertaken.  Then upstairs and into something quite different from the usual. Sole Power was in the building, but not the usual, think a ‘deconstructed’ band… like a poké bowl version of a live band. Musicians spread across the room, guitarists up on pedestals, rhythm section and vocals anchoring the upstairs space, not the usual. You walk in and go, “Ok, this is going to be fun.” and it sure was. Dancing, hora, great food, heartfelt speeches, the whole enchilada.  Jessica Baker had everything dialed in perfectly. The room looked incredible and the event ran exactly how you want it to run, seamless.  Mazel tov guys, spectacular night. . The Story of Jenny’s Bat Mitzvah: Selected Photos: HERE […]
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Brad’s Bar Mitzvah Rehearsal: April 30, 2026 Brad’s bar mitzvah rehearsal took place at Adath Israel on a beautiful Thursday afternoon, right when spring finally deciding to show up. May was around the corner, leaves thinking about changing, flowers getting ready, and Brad stepping into his moment.  He was great at the rehearsal. Took charge, settled in, and worked through the reading like he meant it. Always nice to see that calm confidence before the main event.  Add in parents, a set of proud grandparents, and you have exactly what a rehearsal should be. Focused, a little relaxed, and quietly exciting.  We did some portraits, worked through the Torah reading, and just like that we were done and done.  Mazel tov guys, way to go. . The Story of Brad’s Bar Mitzvah Rehearsal: Selected Photos: HERE All the Photos: HERE . •Clothing (Mitzvah): Moores (suit), North Boys (shirt), Tip Top Tailors (tie/pocket square)    •Shoes (Mitzvah): Nike     •Clothing (Mom): Maje, Browns Shoes      •Clothing (Dad): Ted Baker, John Fluevog Shoes •Kippot: The Israeli Source  •Tallit: Gabrieli •Invitations: Paperless Post   •Jewellery: Twain Designs •Makeup: Liz Robertson       •Hair: Julie Coupland    •Decor:  Around the Table (linens) and Kosher ‘n’ Natural (centre pieces)      •Photographer: Jonni Super •Venue: Adath Israel Synagogue      •Caterer: TWO13 Kosher […]
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Sam’s Bar Mitzvah: April 25, 2026 My second adventure with this family turned into a fantastic morning at Congregation Habonim. I love this space. Rain or shine, there is always beautiful light and room to work.  Sam was all in from the start. Toronto spring rain was doing its thing, so we stayed inside and made the most of the foyer and everything it had to offer. We started with the immediate family, then brought in the whole crew.  From there we headed into the sanctuary for a wonderful ceremony. Rabbi Audrey and Cantor Kim guided this young man into adulthood. He spoke beautifully and made everyone proud, and by everyone, I mean four generations. His great grandmother was on site and she is a Tour de Force.  After the candy and speeches, we moved into a delicious lunch courtesy of Toben. Good music, lots of hanging out, a photo booth, all the ingredients of a great celebration.  Mazel Tov guys. Way to go.   The Story of Sam’s Bar Mitzvah: Selected Photos: HERE All the Photos: HERE
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Sabrina’s Bat Mitzvah: April 23, 2026 Well, this was my fourth adventure with this family, and what started back in 2019 has now come full circle. Sabrina is number four and just like that, the mitzvah chapter closes… at least until the weddings begin, which I assume will be sooner than anyone is ready for.  Back to this morning. Sabrina was in fine form as we wandered around Beth David. We have done this a few times together and it all felt very familiar, like slipping into something well worn and easy. We went here, we went there, photographed Sabrina with the siblings, the parents, the whole crew, and just enjoyed ourselves in some pretty spectacular spring sunshine. April in Toronto can be a gamble, but today behaved.  Fast forward and we are inside the sanctuary celebrating the coming of age of this delightful young woman. Sabrina spoke beautifully, there were tears, there was pride, there was that perfect mix of both. Cantor Michael led a warm and inclusive ceremony, as he always does. Towards the end, friends gathered on the bima joining Sabrina, and that lovely sense of community and friendship filled the room.  Then it was off to brunch. Great food, […]
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Jacob’s Bar Mitzvah: April 16, 2025 Jacob’s bar mitzvah, my first go around with this family, and what a great one to start with. Adath Israel was the spot and Jacob was the guy. April in Toronto did its usual thing and yes, rain showed up right on cue, so our outdoor window was a bit tight. Still, we made it work just fine.  I took Jacob for a little wander through the gardens, nothing too far, staying close to the synagogue. Then the family joined in, immediate and extended, and we got into some really lovely portraits. And then, right on schedule, the rain properly arrived.  Inside we went for the ceremony in the large sanctuary, which is an absolute dream to photograph. So many angles, so many options, it just works. Jacob spoke beautifully from the Torah and you could feel how proud everyone was.  We wrapped things up and headed downstairs for a classic Adath Israel lunch, which always delivers. A couple of speeches, a fantastic photo booth, “AI photobooths are the future, baby”, and just like that, it was a wrap.  Mazel Tov guys. Already looking forward to the next one. . The Story of Jacob’s Bar Mitzvah: […]
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Eli’s Bar Mitzvah Rehearsal: March 25, 2026 Eli’s bar mitzvah rehearsal, my second go around with this family and just like the first, was an absolute blast. I met them at Temple Sinai on one of those early spring afternoons where winter is clearly on its way out but still kind of lingering like it forgot something.  Eli and I wandered the garden, doing our photo thing in one of my favourite spots to shoot. Then we pulled in the sister, the parents, the grandparents, and just like that, the family session was in full swing. A few laughs, some solid smiles, glasses on, glasses off, all the classic rehearsal photo shoot moves.  After that we headed inside to the sanctuary where the Torah was waiting for us, and we got those timeless Torah shots we always go for.  Eli, you crushed it. Enjoy the main event.  Mazel Tov.   The Story of Eli’s Bar Mitzvah Rehearsal: Selected Photos: HERE All the Photos: HERE
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Zach’s Home Bar Mitzvah: March 5, 2026 It’s been a while since I’ve had one of those backyard bar mitzvahs. Of course at this time of year the backyard becomes the living room, and this one was fantastic. The most beautiful house; straight lines everywhere, nothing weird, no clutter, just clean, tidy, and perfect for photos.  Zach ventured outside with me for a little wander about, but snow everywhere, so we quickly realized the indoors was our friend and headed back in for most of the shoot. We added some parents, eventually brought his sister into the mix, and then gathered the extended family in the living room for some fun.  Moshe Saadon handled officiating duties and as always was a joy. Inviting, charismatic, and completely in command of the room with perfect gentle guidance. Zach was great, he read beautifully and made everyone proud. Lots of smiling uncles and grandmothers, the perfect scenario. An intimate and delicious brunch followed and just like that this young boy was now a man. Mazel tov guys. All the Photos: HERE  
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Eli’s Bar Mitzvah: March 7, 2026 Two days with Eli’s family was exactly what the doctor ordered for this bar mitzvah. We started at Beth Tikvah for the rehearsal on Thursday and wrapped things up at the Next Door Restaurant in Unionville on Saturday.  Rehearsal was a big one. Grandparents from both sides, lots of family, and at times we were taking up a serious amount of real estate in the sanctuary. I took Eli for a walk outside. Rain was definitely a factor but it had absolutely no effect on the smiles, the enthusiasm, or the good vibes. His sister was waiting in the wings for her turn, and the whole thing felt like fun and games. A quick Torah reading later and we were done at the synagogue and already looking forward to Saturday night.  The Next Door Restaurant in Unionville is a fantastic venue for a smaller mitzvah celebration. I can attest because I’ve been there before and it was lovely to be back again. The food is stellar, the staff is welcoming, and the room is the perfect size.  Eli and I used every inch of the outside space we could find. It’s a really interesting area and honestly […]
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Penny’s Bat Mitzvah: February 28, 2026 My adventures with Penny at Beth Tzedec this past weekend were fantastic. Her bat mitzvah had arrived and we were there to celebrate properly.  We kicked things off with a Friday afternoon rehearsal that took care of all the immediate and extended family photos. A very efficient start to the festivities. I stole Penny for a little wander outside the synagogue, brought her sister into the mix, and slowly added parents and extended family like we were building the perfect recipe.  Once we wrapped that up, we headed into the sanctuary for some beautiful photos with the Torah. Quiet, meaningful, and full of “this is really happening” energy. All of it setting the stage for the big day.  Fast forward to Saturday night and the havdalah service; candles lit, spices passed, smiles everywhere, young Penny officially ushered into adulthood surrounded by her friends and family.  And then, of course, it was time to party, and we all know who runs the best game in town.  Tiffany and Jesse from Bounce Entertainment brought her their game and it was on. Great food, warm and heartfelt speeches, and a dance floor that did not quit.  Mazel Tov, guys. Way to go. […]
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Ezra’s Home Bar Mitzvah: February 19, 2026 This was such a fantastic little ‘backyard’ bar mitzvah at Ezra’s grandparents’ house. A beautiful, warm home filled with immediate family, a few extended relatives, and a close friend or two, the perfect setting to usher this young man into adulthood.  Middle of winter in Toronto, so naturally everything was indoors (because… snow). I arrived on site and started by wandering around with Ezra, grabbing some portraits before bringing in the immediate family, then the extended crew. We did a quick Torah rehearsal and then, boom, into the main event.  Moshe Saadon was on deck to officiate and, as usual, delivered a stellar job. Candy flew, schmoozing commenced, a spirited hora broke out for good measure, and we all sat down to a delicious Toben-style lunch.  Mazal Tov, guys. Great job.   The Story of Ezra’s Bar Mitzvah: Selected Photos: HERE All the Photos: HERE  
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Nathan’s Bar Mitzvah: February 7, 2026 Photography by Isaiah Nathan’s bar mitzvah took place at the beautiful Boulevard Room on Steeles. A stellar location that lends itself to a wonderful ceremony and party. Nathan was ready in full mitzvah regalia for photos. Very quick zip outside for a few pics but generally everything was back in the Boulevard. Once family portraits were done, it was time for a ceremony. Moshe Saadon was on deck to usher this young man into adulthood. Nathan spoke well and delivered his parsha with confidence and pride. Formalities over, it was time to party; hora, delicious food, speeches, limbo, the usual balagan of the bar mitzvah circuit. Way to go Nathan, good job.   All the Photos: HERE
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