chuppah

Planning a Jewish wedding is such a meaningful and emotional journey. It’s not just about the logistics, it’s about blending deep-rooted traditions with your own modern love story. And one of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the right photographer to capture it all.

As someone who has been photographing Jewish weddings for over a decade, I know how important it is to find a photographer who gets it. Someone who knows when to step back and let the moment unfold naturally, and when to step in and capture that fleeting, beautiful second that you’ll treasure forever.

Jewish weddings are fast-paced, emotional, and deeply sacred. And honestly, you don’t want to be explaining the difference between a Tisch and a Bedeken to your photographer, you want someone who already knows AND understands how it feels to be standing under the Chuppah for her own Jewish wedding.

I’ve had so many Jewish couples come to me with similar questions when they’re searching for the right photographer. That’s why I put together this post. I wanted to give you 150% honest answers and help you feel more confident when making this decision. So let’s dive into some of the biggest questions Jewish couples have about wedding photography.

1. Why Is It Important to Hire a Photographer Who Specializes in Jewish Weddings?

Jewish weddings aren’t like any other weddings and that’s part of what makes them so beautiful. From the Tisch and Bedeken to the Hora, there’s a flow and rhythm to Jewish weddings that’s different from any other type of wedding.

For example, the Tisch (where the groom gathers with his friends and family to sign the ketubah and celebrate) and the Bride sitting on her “thrown” waiting for the Bedeken (where the groom veils the bride) often happen simultaneously. That means you need a photographer who’s prepared to capture both, who is fully aware and experienced in the complete chaos that is the Bedeken and who knows exactly where to stand and where to look when the Bedeken is happening.

Then there’s the chuppah ceremony , the circling, the Sheva Brachot (Seven Blessings), the breaking of the glass, the ring and ketubah exchange, each part has its own deep significance. A photographer who understands these traditions will anticipate these moments without needing to be guided. They’ll know where to stand, what lens to use, and how to capture the emotion of the moment without being intrusive.

Jewish weddings also tend to move fast, once the dancing starts, the energy in the room is electric. If your photographer isn’t familiar with this pace, they might miss the action entirely. If the photographer doesn’t know how to jump right into the craziness, they might miss some really incredible moments.

I always tell my couples that hiring someone who truly understands Jewish weddings means you can talk the lingo, relax and focus on the moment, knowing that every meaningful detail is being documented and your photographer knows exactly what is coming next.

2. Do We Need Two Photographers for a Jewish Wedding?

I’m going to be totally honest, for Jewish weddings, having two photographers is almost always a good idea. Here’s why:

• Jewish weddings have a lot of moving parts. The groom’s Tisch is usually in a completely different part of the venue than where the cocktail hour and bride is seated, so having two photographers ensures both sides of the story are covered fully!
• I also find that having two photographers for a Jewish ceremony is absolutely key! 95% of the time, I like to be right by the Chuppah, getting all of the action that is happening underneath the Chuppah and having a second photographer down the aisle, capturing wide angles, action shots from a far, and guest reactions! It allows me to really concentrate on the emotion, love and personalities under the Chuppah, while still not missing any of the epic wide shots.
• During the Jewish dancing, it’s absolute joyful chaos, and you’ll want someone capturing the wide shots of the whole dance floor while someone else is zoomed in on your face as you’re being lifted into the air.
• If you’re having an Orthodox wedding where there’s separate dancing, it’s essential to have a photographer on each side to capture the full experience. We don’t want any awesome dance move or important moment missed!

3. What Are the Key Moments a Jewish Wedding Photographer Should Capture?

Every wedding is different, but for Jewish weddings, there are certain moments that are absolutely essential to document:

The Tisch – The groom (and in more modern weddings, the bride as well) surrounded by his friends and family, the energy building as the ketubah is being signed.

The Bedeken – That emotional moment when the groom sees his bride and veils her. I also find this moment really feels like a community affair. It’s not just a couple celebrating and participating, but the entire community celebrating and participating.

Walking Down the Aisle – The tradition of being escorted by your parents is such a powerful moment.

Under the Chuppah – The circling, the vows, the blessings — this is the heart of the ceremony.

Breaking the Glass – The triumphant moment followed by song and dance!

The Hora – The sheer joy of being lifted into the air while everyone dances around you.

Family Portraits – Jewish weddings are about family and legacy — you’ll treasure these photos for generations.

Reception and Dancing – The speeches, the wild energy of the shtick and the epic dance moves, these are the moments you’ll want to relive over and over.

A photographer who knows Jewish weddings will be in the right place at the right time for every single one of these moments, without needing to be told.

Trust me when I say, it makes your life a lot easier on your wedding day.

4. How Do We Incorporate Jewish Traditions Into Our Wedding Photos?

One of my favorite things about photographing Jewish weddings is how meaningful and personal the traditions are. I always tell my couples: if it’s meaningful to you, it means something to me so let’s capture it.

Some of my favorite ways to incorporate Jewish traditions into wedding photos:

• Holding the ketubah during portraits
• Capturing the emotional exchange of rings under the chuppah
• Photographing the groom’s tallit draped over the couple during the ceremony
• Showcasing the breaking of the glass from different angles
• Family heirlooms — like your grandmother’s kiddush cup or your grandfather’s tallit — woven into the details

The key is to tell your story, not just recreate what other couples have done.

5. What’s the Best Way to Schedule Photos Around the Ceremony and Reception?

Timing a Jewish wedding can be tricky, but it all comes down to good communication and a solid plan. Here’s how I typically recommend scheduling the photography:

At the end of the day, you don’t get a second chance to capture these moments, so having that extra set of eyes makes all the difference.

First Look: If you’re doing a first look, it’s best to schedule it about 2.5 hours before the ceremony. This gives you time for couple portraits, wedding party photos, and family shots before the ceremony starts.

Family Portraits: If you don’t have time before the ceremony, set aside 20–30 minutes immediately after the ceremony for family portraits. This ensures everyone is still gathered and looking their best.

Golden Hour: If your wedding is in the late afternoon or early evening, carving out 10–15 minutes during golden hour (the hour before sunset) can give you the most beautiful, soft light for romantic couple portraits.

If your wedding is on a Saturday evening after Shabbat, you may need to adjust the timing slightly to respect Shabbat restrictions. An experienced Jewish wedding photographer will know how to work within these guidelines while still capturing everything beautifully.

6. How Far in Advance Should We Book Our Photographer?

Most Jewish couples book their wedding photographer 6 – 12 months before their wedding date. While some couples plan further out (especially for popular dates in the spring and fall), this is more than enough time to secure a photographer who specializes in Jewish weddings.

That said, if you’re getting married during a busy season or on a holiday weekend, it’s always a good idea to reach out as soon as you have your date locked in. And if your wedding is coming up sooner than that, don’t panic! I’ve had couples book me just a week before their wedding, and we made it work beautifully. The key is to reach out early, communicate your needs, and find someone who understands the unique flow of a Jewish wedding.

7. How Do We Find a Jewish Wedding Photographer Who Understands Our Traditions?

My advice: ask direct questions. Here’s what you want to know:

• Have you photographed Jewish weddings before?
• Are you familiar with Orthodox, Conservative, and Reform traditions?
• Can you capture the Tisch and Bedeken at the same time?
• Do you understand the flow of a Jewish wedding ceremony?
• Are you up for the crazy chaos of Jewish dance floors?

A photographer who knows Jewish weddings will not only answer “yes” — they’ll probably light up with excitement at the thought of photographing your big day.

At the end of the day, your Jewish wedding is about more than just the ceremony, it’s about your love story, your heritage, and the people who are showing up to celebrate with you.

Choosing the right photographer means finding someone who not only knows how to work a camera but also knows and really feels why each moment matters. From the emotional walk down the aisle to the wild energy of the Bedekin, all the way to the The “Mezinka” or “broom dance”, you deserve to have someone who understands the heart behind it all.

If that sounds like the kind of photographer you’re looking for, what are you waiting for, let’s chat. I’d be honored to capture your day in a way that feels true to you and your story.

Jewish weddings are rich in tradition, symbolism, and culture, making them incredibly meaningful for couples, families and the entire community as a whole.

Whether you’re attending a Jewish wedding, planning your own, or just interested in the unique customs involved, this article will explain everything you need to know about Jewish wedding traditions and their significance!

1. Chuppah

The chuppah is a canopy under which the couple stands during their wedding ceremony. Symbolizing the home the couple will build together, it’s a beautiful representation of shelter, protection, and love.

The chuppah is often held up by four poles and can be decorated with flowers or fabric. The open sides of the chuppah are meant to represent the couple’s willingness to welcome friends and family into their new home.
Common across all branches: Orthodox, Conservative, and Reform.

The chuppah is a central aspect of Jewish wedding ceremonies, and the design can vary greatly depending on personal style and preference.

While some couples opt for simple wooden structures, others go all-out with elaborate designs featuring fabric, flowers, or even greenery. A unique chuppah helps add a personal touch to the ceremony and sets the tone for the wedding! Your florist and Event Planner can help bring your Chuppah vision to life!

2. Ketubah

A ketubah is the Jewish marriage contract. It’s an important document outlining the couple’s obligations to each other. Traditionally, it’s signed by two witnesses and is often beautifully decorated.

After the wedding, the ketubah is typically displayed in the couple’s home as a reminder of their commitment.
Common across all branches: Orthodox, Conservative, and Reform.

The ketubah is not just a legal document; it’s also a deeply emotional part of the wedding ceremony. It outlines the rights and responsibilities of the husband toward the wife, ensuring that she will be supported and cared for.

While the ketubah is traditionally written in Aramaic, many modern couples today choose to have it in English, Hebrew or both Hebrew and English, especially in Reform weddings.

3. Sheva Brachot

The Sheva Brachot (Seven Blessings) are recited during the wedding ceremony and at the end of the Reception right after everyone recites the prayers of Grace after Meals.

These seven blessings are also recited at the subsequent seven days of celebrations, typically at a dinner. These blessings express gratitude for the creation of the world, joy in the couple’s union, and the hope for a future filled with love and peace.

The Seven blessings are traditionally said in Hebrew, but many couples choose to have both the Hebrew blessings and English versions of the blessings under the Chuppah. Having both is a beautiful way to include tradition with a modern twist to make sure everyone can appreciate the special blessings.
Common across all branches: Orthodox, Conservative, and Reform.

These blessings include words of praise for God’s creation, the gift of marriage, and the celebration of love and life. In many Jewish wedding traditions, these blessings are recited in Hebrew, and family members and friends take turns reciting them at the wedding celebration.

These blessings are repeated during the week-long festivities that follow the wedding, known as Sheva Brachot dinners.

4. Kabbalat Panim

Before the wedding ceremony, the kabbalat panim is the reception where the bride and groom are greeted by family and friends. Traditionally, the bride and groom are separated, and each receives guests in their respective areas.
Common in Orthodox and Conservative weddings, though not a standard practice in Reform weddings.

The kabbalat panim is a time of joyful celebration before the wedding ceremony begins.

While the groom and bride traditionally celebrate separately, the mingling and excitement build anticipation for the ceremony. This tradition allows both families and friends to enjoy the occasion together before the formalities begin.

5. Tisch

The tisch is a traditional pre-wedding gathering where the groom, family, and friends celebrate together before the ceremony.

It’s often lively and includes singing and dancing, especially with the groom’s male relatives and friends. The groom is usually seated at the head of the table, and the atmosphere is filled with joy and excitement.

The tisch sets the stage for the festivities to come and allows the groom to relax and enjoy the support of his loved ones.
Common in Orthodox and Conservative weddings, but not typically observed by Reform Jews.

The tisch is a key part of the Orthodox and Conservative Jewish wedding experience. The groom’s close friends and family gather around, singing and sharing moments of joy before the ceremony.

It’s a time for the groom to relax and focus on the joy of the occasion before the formalities of the wedding.

It is a cherished tradition for the groom to share words of Jewish wisdom. As he speaks, his family and friends joyfully interrupt with songs and dance, infusing the moment with lively celebration and communal spirit.

6. Bedekin

The bedekin is the veiling ceremony that takes place just before the couple’s wedding ceremony. The groom places a veil over the bride’s face, symbolizing modesty and the groom’s acceptance of the bride’s inner beauty.

During an Orthodox and Conservative wedding, this usually takes place right after the Tisch. The groom walks or dances his way to the bride with the whole community with him, once he is in front of the bride, he goes to her and puts the veil over her head to cover her face.
Commonly practiced by Orthodox and Conservative Jews, though some Reform weddings may include it based on personal preference.

The bedekin is a beautiful and symbolic ritual, highlighting the groom’s commitment to his bride.

It’s a moment of intimacy before the ceremony begins, and it is a very traditional part of Orthodox and Conservative Jewish weddings. It is also a time for the families to come together and celebrate the union. In Reform weddings, the veil may be less emphasized, and couples may choose to focus on other elements of the ceremony.

7. Ring Exchange

During the ceremony, the couple exchanges rings as a sign of their commitment to one another. In Jewish tradition, the groom typically places the ring on the bride’s index finger and recites a blessing.

The ring is traditional a gold band. A simple, unbroken circle shape represents a marriage without conflict or distraction. 
Common across all branches: Orthodox, Conservative, and Reform.

The ring exchange is one of the most important moments in the Jewish wedding ceremony.

In Orthodox traditions, the ring is given without any markings or gemstones, representing the couple’s pure and eternal bond.

While this is the most common custom, Reform Jews may opt for a ring that has more personalization, such as engraving or the inclusion of gemstones.

8. Breaking the Glass

At the end of the wedding ceremony, the groom (and sometimes along side the bride) breaks a glass, typically wrapped in a cloth, with his foot.

This act has multiple interpretations, including the reminder of the destruction of the ancient Temple in Jerusalem and the hope that the couple’s marriage will be filled with both joy and sorrow, as life is full of contrasts.
Common across all branches: Orthodox, Conservative, and Reform.

Breaking the glass is one of the most iconic traditions at Jewish weddings.

The sound of the glass shattering symbolizes the breaking of the couple’s past life as they begin their new life together. In some traditions, guests shout “Mazel Tov!” immediately after the glass is broken, signaling the celebration of the couple’s future.

9. Yichud

After the ceremony, the couple spends a few moments in private, called yichud. This tradition allows the couple to be alone together for the first time as newlyweds, reflecting on the commitment they’ve just made. It also symbolizes their new status as a married couple.
Common across all branches: Orthodox, Conservative, and Reform.

The yichud period is a moment of quiet reflection and intimacy after the chaos of the wedding ceremony. The couple is in a secluded room where they can enjoy their first moments as husband and wife.

This practice is observed in both traditional and more modern Jewish weddings, providing a peaceful pause in the celebration.

In both Orthodox and Conservative traditions, the Rabbi will inspect the Yichud room beforehand to ensure it is properly secluded and free of any other guests.

Once the bride and groom enter and settle into the room, the door is closed behind them, and two witnesses stand guard outside to ensure their privacy, maintaining the sacredness of this intimate moment.

10. Chatan and Kallah

In Jewish weddings, the groom is referred to as the chatan and the bride is called the kallah.

These terms reflect the couple’s roles in the wedding ceremony and signify the joyous occasion.
Common across all branches: Orthodox and Conservative

The terms chatan (groom) and kallah (bride) are used throughout the wedding ceremony to refer to the couple. These words are a sign of respect and are used when referring to the individuals being united in marriage.

While they are commonly used across all Jewish traditions, you may also hear these terms in other aspects of Jewish life, such as during blessings or prayers.

Jewish weddings are beautiful, deeply rooted in tradition, and filled with meaningful rituals that symbolize love, commitment, and faith.

Understanding these terms will help you better appreciate the beauty and significance of a Jewish wedding and the many layers of meaning that come with this joyous celebration.

Whether you’re planning the wedding, attending your first Jewish wedding, or something in between, knowing the meanings behind these terms can deepen your connection to the experience.

Jewish weddings are a celebration of love, life, faith and tradition and each term, custom, and ritual plays a vital role in honoring that legacy.

Planning a Jewish wedding can be one of the most meaningful experiences and also one of the most overwhelming places.

As someone who has captured countless Jewish weddings, I know how vital it is to find a photographer who truly understands your vision and the traditions that make your day unique.

Your photographer will be the one preserving your cherished rituals and heartfelt moments.

To help you find the perfect match, here are ten essential questions to guide your conversations with potential photographers

1. Do you have experience photographing Jewish weddings?

Jewish weddings have unique customs and traditions, so it’s important to work with someone familiar with them. From the breaking of the glass to the chuppah ceremony, experience ensures nothing gets missed.

Personally, I always make sure to talk to the officiant or Rabbi before the ceremony begins to make sure I know exactly what to expect.

Two questions I always ask: (1) Which direction will the bride and groom stand during the ceremony? and (2) where will the Rabbi place the glass on the floor before the smashing of the glass!

Both of those questions, change my game plan for how I photograph the ceremony!

2. Are you familiar with specific Jewish rituals and traditions, such as the chuppah, ketubah signing, Tisch + Bedekin, Shtick or horah?

These moments are central to your celebration. A photographer with knowledge of these rituals will know when and how to capture them with sensitivity and precision.

There are specific traditions you can explain to someone until they are blue in the face, but if they haven’t experienced it before, they won’t truly understand what to expect and how to photograph it!

3. Can you accommodate the timeline of a traditional Jewish wedding day?

Jewish weddings often involve extended celebrations, and more traditions and rituals than most secular weddings. Ensure your photographer is comfortable working with a more flexible and potentially longer timeline.

For most secular weddings, I suggest at least 8 hours of coverage, but for Jewish Weddings, I suggest at least 9 or 10 hours, depending on how many traditions the couple is planning on!

4. How do you ensure privacy and respect during religious moments?

Key religious moments, such as what happens under the chuppah and during the veiling of the bride, require a photographer who understands the importance of being unobtrusive while still capturing the beauty of the moment.

I always say, I will be under the chuppah for part of your ceremony with you, but I will be as quiet and as quick as a ninja so I can be the least disruptive as possible. I will never get in the way of the other people under the chuppah, but I will always be there to capture the special moments!

5. How do you handle unexpected challenges on the wedding day?

An experienced photographer is prepared for anything from sudden weather changes to tight timelines, ensuring your day goes smoothly and your photos turn out beautifully no matter the circumstances.

I always say that as a wedding photographer, you have to embrace the chaos and learn how to go with the flow… You can plan every moment to a T, but at the end of the day, 95% of wedding timelines run late or need to be adjusted in the moment and as the photographer you just got to roll with it, be confident and make sure your clients are as calm and as in the moment as possible!

6. Do you offer a second photographer?

I highly recommend two photographers for any Jewish wedding and even more so if you are planning on having a Tisch and Bedekin at your wedding!With so much happening simultaneously, having two photographers ensures every special moment is beautifully captured.

Many couples ask me if they should have three photographers, and I always say that if you are having less than 400 people at your wedding, two photographers is plenty! I find three photographers a little overwhelming for the couple, their family and their guests. We are there to enhance everyones experience and not overwhelm it!

7. How do you approach family portraits?

Jewish weddings often include large and extended families. Your photographer should have a clear plan to efficiently organize and capture these important portraits.

I believe there is really only one way to make sure my couples get all the family combinations they (and their parents) could possibly want… and it is being bossy in the nicest way possible!

I ask my clients to write out a list of all the different family combinations they want so I can print the list, call them out and check them off as we go.

My goal is to go as quickly and as painless as possible when it comes to the family photos.

8. What backup equipment and plans do you have?

A reliable photographer should have backup cameras, lenses, and a contingency plan to ensure no technical issues disrupt their ability to capture your day.

I always bring three cameras, just in case, and I make sure every single photo I capture are recorded to two memory cards, just in case one is defective.

9. Can you share examples of full wedding galleries?

While highlight reels and Instagram posts are great, seeing complete galleries will give you a better sense of their style, consistency, and how they capture an entire event.

Social media is full of the best of the best, galleries are full of every single moment of a wedding day captured. It is a completely different viewing experience and I personally, like the full gallery experience better! Makes it all more real!

10. How do you incorporate cultural or personal details into the photos?

Jewish weddings are rich in tradition and meaning. Ask your photographer how they’ll highlight these elements, from embroidered tallitot to family heirlooms.

As someone who has stood under the chuppah at her own wedding and is now a proud, Jewish mama, I understand the importance of our culture and rituals in a deep way that makes me photograph those details with so much love and honor.

Choosing the right photographer ensures the memories of your Jewish wedding are beautifully preserved. These questions will help you find someone who aligns with your vision, values, and the traditions that make your celebration unique. Take the time to have open conversations with potential photographers, and don’t be afraid to trust your instincts.

Mazel tov on this exciting chapter of your life! Your perfect photographer is out there, ready to capture every meaningful moment.

“Do you want to hold the back of my dress as I go see Will?” Brittany asked Sadie, her flower girl. Sadie’s smile grew as she nodded. All three of us walked out onto the balcony and down the ramp to the beautiful bridge right outside of the Talamore Country Club. There he was. Brittany’s groom. Looking sharp in his white bowtie and light grey suite. Will was facing away from us but I could tell from his posture that he couldn’t wait to see his bride. As Brittany walked towards Will smiling, Sadie followed closely behind doing everything she could to make sure that Brittany’s dress didn’t touch the ground. Finally, Brittany and Sadie were right behind Will. Brittany lightly tapped her manicured finger on Will’s shoulder. He turned around. Saw his beautiful bride and adorable flower girl. His eyes widened and his hands immediately covered his mouth in complete awe. A tear fell down his cheek. 

It was the perfect moment. 

This is just who Brittany and Will are; big smiles, huge hearts and forever thinking of their friends and family. They are two of the most considerate people I have ever met and it was evident in every detail of their wedding day. From making the afternoon fun for the little humans, all the way to the beautiful roses that decorated the entire venue and right down to the ten year anniversary cake they had speciality ordered for two of Brittany’s cousins.They thought of it all. Brittany and Will are truly mindful, incredibly sweet and insanely generous to the core. I couldn’t be more inspired by the two of them.

Brittany and Will tied the knot under the family Chuppah in the beautiful Talamore Country Club Ballroom. With the officiant being one of Brittany’s cousin, their ceremony was full of laughter, tradition, connection and so much love. It was stunning in every way. As Will dipped his beautiful bride for their first kiss, the entire audience clapped and cheered. It was yet another perfect moment. 

Brittany and Will, I know your love can do it all. Your hearts are big and beautiful.. Your souls are kind and loving. And your relationship is unique and energizing. My wish for you, is that you continue creating a beautiful life together full of happiness, generosity, friends, family and hundreds and hundreds of more dip kisses and choreographed dances.

Venders: Venue: Talamore Country Club | DJ: East Coast Event Group | Videographer: East Coast Event Group |Cake: Ann’s Cake Pan |Caterer: Talamore Country Club |Bridesmaids Dress: David’s Bridal |Groomsmen Attire: Men’s Wearhouse |Invitations: Kathleen Blass |Florist: Plaza Florists – Plaza Florists |Bridal Dress: Country Bride and Gent |Hair and Make up Artist: Daneene Jensen and Associates

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