This is me at 13 - and this is me 30 years later, with hair, make up, good lighting and some photoshop!

This is me at 13 - and this is me 30 years later, with hair, make up, good lighting and some photoshop!

- Shani - \shin-knee\

People ask me all the time (not really, but I'll tell you anyways)
“Why do you love photographing Bar and Bat Mitzvahs?
to which I reply, (to no one in particular) that I feel like I understand the 13 year old kid in front of me - I feel their soul... I know that they're looking at me as a little old lady chasing them with my camera - but I like to think that one day, they will appreciate the fact that I did, just as I hope my kids - who are past that age already and are full blown teenagers, will appreciate everything I do for them... HA! Seriously though - Kids, families, parties, food - it's a perfect event of a life time that I enjoy being  a part of - and I do appreciate the families that trusted me with their memories, their moments, to care of documenting their transition from teen to adult ( even if it officially takes another 10 years...).

Contact me at shani@shanibarel.com and or 310.920.8227