A Pre-Mitzvah Session at Greystone Manor: Why Getting to Know Your Photographer Matters
Let me tell you about the sweetest girl I enjoyed working with recently. She’s turning 13 and celebrating her Bat Mitzvah at the stunning Greystone Manor—dreamy light, historic charm, all the elegance you could want for a milestone like this. But what made this experience unforgettable was our time before the big event.
We did a pre-Mitzvah session, and honestly, it was a blast. We laughed, explored, and captured some truly beautiful images that reflect her personality—natural, playful, and full of joy. It wasn’t just about getting pretty photos (though, yes, the light was golden, and her outfit was perfection). It was about connection.
Here’s the thing: when it comes to events like Bat and Bar Mitzvahs, you’re not hiring someone to show up with a camera. You’re inviting a photographer into a very special, personal moment. There are nerves, family, timelines, and so many moving parts. That’s why I always recommend scheduling a pre-event session. It’s not just a shoot—it’s a chance for us to get comfortable with each other.
Everything shifts when your child knows me, trusts me, and feels relaxed in front of my lens. They show up more confident. They feel seen, celebrated, and free to be themselves. That kind of energy? It translates directly into the photos.
For this session, we picked a time when the light at Greystone Manor was soft and glowy. There was no stress, no rush—just us taking a walk, chatting, and finding pockets of light that felt like magic. These photos became more than just part of the Bat Mitzvah coverage. They told a story. They showed who she is right now, at this incredible moment in her life.
As a parent, I know you want your child to feel special, not just on the day of the event, but leading up to it. A pre-Mitzvah session is the perfect way to build excitement, boost confidence, and ease any nerves. Plus, you get a beautiful gallery of images that can be used for sign-in boards, slideshows, printed albums, or just cherished at home.
On the day of the Mitzvah, everything feels easier. Your child sees a familiar face behind the camera; we already have that connection. I know how they move, what makes them laugh, and the kinds of prompts that bring out their natural smile. I know what makes you light up as a parent, too—and that makes a world of difference when documenting a day filled with meaning, family, and love.
The families I work with often tell me that the pre-session was one of the best parts of the process. It shifted the experience from “we have to take pictures” to “we get to create something beautiful.” It also gave them a sneak peek into how I work—low pressure, collaborative, focused on making everyone look and feel their best.
If your child has a Mitzvah coming up, I highly recommend booking a session ahead of time. It doesn’t have to be long or formal. It just needs to feel like them. Whether we shoot at your home, a favorite park, or a place like Greystone Manor, we’ll make it personal and true to your family.
This moment—this age—is such a beautiful one. Thirteen is that magical bridge between childhood and teenage years, and I love freezing that in time through my lens. Every session is tailored, every gallery is unique, and every image tells a piece of your child’s story.
So here’s your reminder: don’t wait for the big day to start the photography experience. Start early. Get to know your photographer. Let your child feel seen and celebrated in a fun, relaxed, and totally stress-free way. Click here to see my work featured on Party Slate
And if Greystone Manor is on your radar? Just say the word HERE. I already know all the best light-filled spots. 😉
xo,
Gloria
