Take it to the Max: Max's Bar Mitzvah at Temple Sinai and Blue Hill Country Club

Temple Sinai Sharon MA Bar Mitzvah Kristin Chalmers Photography

I was able to photograph Max’s bar mitzvah on May 21st at the Temple Sinai in Sharon, MA, including a reception afterward at the Blue Hill Country Club in Canton.

When I first met up with Max to do his practice session, we found out he and I had a lot in common, even though he’s only 13. We both love hip-hop, dance, all kinds of music, and old school track suits. In fact, he was very clear that he wanted hip-hop to be an important part of his bar mitzvah. Max had been thinking about how he wanted his bar mitzvah to go ever since he attended his oldest cousin’s celebrationsix years ago.

My second shooter, Vanessa Walsh, and I met Max and his family at the temple. There, we photographed some family formals and helped Max decompress and destress before the service. I decided the best thing for this sweet, outgoing kid was to cover his getting ready photos before the party instead of before the service. Sometimes, the hours before the service are stressful for both the child and the family. So, instead of worrying about “getting ready” images, we focused on making sure he was ready for his big day.

After the service, I headed over to Max’s house to hang out with him and snap some photos in his throwback Adidas track suit and shell tops on his bike. From there, we went to the country club, where Max’s friends and family from all over came to celebrate with him. Max ruled the dance floor big time. I was exhausted just trying to keep up with him and his buddies.

Max’s mom and dad really went all out with the details for the party, too. Since Max plays hockey and soccer, his parents had a custom chair made completely from hockey sticks for his horah. There were also tee shirts in the style of “Run DMC” that instead read “Run MDC.” From the 45RPM vinyl record centerpieces, to the backpacks given as favors; every detail related back to this awesome kid.

Max, thanks so much for an amazing time. I’m grateful to you for trusting me with everything and letting me be your shoulder to lean on when you were feeling nervous. You really rocked that big time.