The Little One

About a week ago, I had the honor of photographing Zalman for his third birthday. In the Jewish religion, the third birthday of a male is a significant rite of passage. After turning three, Zalman will have his first haircut in the traditional Jewish Upsherin ceremony. It is a proud moment for the mother and father, and the Lipskiers have a lot to be proud of with this little guy.  

He obviously was an awesome model because he is so adorable. I've known him since he was born and he is turning into a respectable kid with the cutest smile ever. Happy Birthday Zalman!

Ohana

Yesterday I got the chance to go with Frankie and Kelly to Jacksonville beach. We volunteered our time at a Life Rolls On event. "Life Rolls On is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for young people affected by spinal cord injury and utilizes action sports as a platform to demonstrate the infinite possibilities beyond paralysis."

The event was amazing as everyone worked together and enjoyed themselves all while helping others. I brought my camera and was extremely nervous about it the entire time. Just being on the beach scared me but being in the water freaked me out. After the beginning, it was all good, I got more comfortable and just held it over my head, which was good because I got some awesome shots. The surfers were really into it, which helped everyone else get into it. Overall, met some great people, heard some amazing stories, and got some great photos. Until next year, LRO! 

Ben's Bar Mitzvah

Congrats Ben!

Last week I had the great opportunity to photograph Ben's Bar Mitzvah party. I've photographed the venue before so I knew it was going to be a fun time. I understood the lighting situations so I knew how I was going to edit. I met Ben and his father first and they were easy going and seemed fun to be around. Jennifer (Ben's mother) arrived not long after and also seemed very excited and energetic, I knew it was going to be a great party. I took Ben out to the front of the JCC to do some lifestyle poses and get some head shots, this kid was a natural. He looked like he already owned 5 businesses. About half an hour went by while I was inside grabbing detail shots, people started arriving. I went outside and began taking candids of the guests. The entire family had such a great energy to them. Some of the guys were wearing these cool different colored slacks, one was a light burgundy and the other was yellow. Once everyone got their fill of photos in the front of the venue, people started trickling inside and the night began. The DJ had awesome music lined up the entire night, there was a candy station with so much chocolate you'd think Willy Wonka supplied it. The dancers kept the party going all night and had fantastic props, like being able to dance inside of a clear ball, as well as a 20 foot pole that she stood on the top and it bent so she good tilt (not easy to explain). The Hora was danced, people ate, smiles were shared and I got a ton of great photos. I'd like to thank Ben and his family for letting me be a part of his big night.