Family Events
These milestone moments in a family’s life are wonderful to capture in an authentic and unscripted way. Some of the most memorable photographs are the magic moments in between the formalities and posed group photos.
Sadie’s Bat Mitzvah at Straus Home Ranch
Sadie celebrated her bat mitzvah at Straus Home Ranch in Marshall, California. It was one of those perfect spring coastal days at this beautiful family ranch managed by the brother-sister team Vivian and Michael Straus.
Special thanks to Rabbi Mia Zimman, songleader Nathaniel Markman, coordinator Sarah Cohen and caterer Carol Whitnah.
Ace’s Baptism
Paul and Michelle chose to have their son Ace baptized at the Burlingame Methodist Church where they were married.







Mackenzie’s First Birthday
I photographed David and Kristin’s beautiful wedding at Trentadue Winery in Geyserville. I was thrilled and honored when they called to ask me to photograph the first birthday of their daughter Mackenzie at their home in San Jose. Kids are so wonderfully unpredictable, so I have learned to let them take the lead, capturing those once-in-a-lifetime moments.






































Lev’s Bar Mitzvah
Lev’s bar mitzvah ceremony took place at the newly-built synagogue Rodef Sholom in San Rafael, followed by an evening party at the Sweetwater Music Hall in Mill Valley where Lev played drums with a live band.
Looking at these pictures, I see Lev surrounded by his family and friends, literally lifted by his community. It gives me the sense that through this ancient Jewish tradition he will always sense that he has a community of support throughout his life to help him in times of need.
Scott’s 50th Birthday Party
This two-day celebration of Scott’s 50th birthday in Napa, California started with a hilarious 70’s themed costume party and was followed the next day by a formal dinner party.