1. Book “The Person” not “The Company.” This will guarantee experience, quality and the reassurance that you will be working with the same professional from beginning to end.

2. Make sure the photographer is insured. This is very important when very expensive equipment is exposed to a large group of very happy and excited children!

3. Prepare a list of family formal photographs to be taken at the synagogue or an alternate location. The photographer should review this list with you at the final meeting prior to the event.

4. Prepare list of extended family groupings and informal groups (ie. hebrew school friends, camp friends, etc.) to be taken at the party. It is very important to include your child’s input when preparing the list. The photographer should review this list with you at the final meeting prior to the event.

5. Prepare one schedule of activities for the party. The same schedule should be given to all the vendors. The photographer should review the schedule to make sure that appropriate time has been included for the informal photo groupings.

6. Inform the photographer and videographer at least one month prior of the date and time of the synagogue (or alternative location) formal shoot.

7. Coordinate with the synagogue, rabbi and/or cantor as to when they will be photographed with the child and family.

8. Make sure the Torah will be accessible for the formal shoot.

9. Meet with the photographer three to four weeks prior to the event to go over the final plans.

10. Remember to bring your Tallit(s) to synagogue.

If you follow these ten tips you and your child can look forward to photographs which will capture the family, friends and the celebration of your child’s Bar or Bat Mitzvah!