Judah S. Harris Photography + Film
September 2021
I'm pleased to announce that this year I'll be offering family portrait sessions in Jerusalem during Chol Hamoed Sukkot, from Wednesday, September 22nd - Monday, September 27th (and a few days prior to and after the holiday). Need photos outside J'lem? Reach out to me to figure out what we can do and when...
Owning an original "Judah S. Harris family portrait" that you can display prominently in your home is a celebration of your family and good photography. My work is widely admired in the US and Israel (and a few other spots on our planet) and the sessions - the time we spend together - is meant to be productive and enjoyable.
I'd like to tell the story of your family - at least some of it. There are three options for you to choose from, each detailed below. While I'm readily available throughout the year for family photos, kids photos, and individual portraits, (and coverage of any important celebratory events), during Sukkot the times are very limited. In other words, if photography is important to you, reserve a spot now.
You can e-mail me directly at judah@judahsharris.com to discuss your session, or call (and whatsapp) 050 301 1648. Scroll down to learn more about this special opportunity to be photographed in Jerusalem.
Wishes for enjoyable yom tovim upcoming,
Judah
"Watching you in action was truly an experience - you have that unique ability to make a very hard job look almost easy, and make everyone around you comfortable"
"Wow thank you! We were amazed at how patient and calm you were even with my kids not being easy."
"I love your work. The angles, lighting, the feeling in your photos are beautiful..."
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Three Session Options
- Option A - 1200 nis - 1.5 hour session, one location, Includes complete set of proofs and 2 signed 30x40 (approx 11x14 in) prints
- Option B - 1685 nis - 2.5 hour session, two locations, Includes complete set of proofs and 2 signed 30x40 (approx 11x14 in) prints
- Option C - 8000 nis - up to 10 hours with Judah S. Harris, “A Day in the Life” of your family, multiple locations - photojournalistic coverage of family activities/interaction, Includes complete set of proofs, 1 signed 40x60 (approx 16x20 in) print, 1 custom designed 35-page coffee table book album, 2 consultation meetings with family (before/after photography session)
FAQ
How will the session be conducted and where in Jerusalem can I have the family photographs taken?
There are two options for family portraits: the 1.5 hour or 2.5 hour session. You can choose a location anywhere in Jerusalem (inquire regarding my availability for other locations in Israel). For very large groups or specialized work, there may be an additional fee. The 1.5 hour session includes one location and the longer 2.5 hour session allows for a second nearby location in the city. I will craft a family portrait and may also photograph individuals or smaller groups during the allotted time. These portraits of your family are intended to be casual and creative, and the experience overall, a fun one. You won't have to hold a smile. At times I will ask people to smile, but usually I let things happen naturally; and I don't believe that people have to wear smiles in every portrait. (Please try not to cry though.)
How should we dress?
Dress nicely and in a way thar reflects the style of your family. If you like to don suits and get all dolled up, go do it. If you'd like a more casual approach, then choose comfortable clothing that you like to wear - and that looks good on you. Stay away from any major fashion statements or loud designs (unless that's the image that you are looking to present to future generations that will for sure discover these Jerusalem family portraits in some chest in the attic decades from now). Consult with me if you have questions. Dress for the weather. No need to sweat or shiver. Jerusalem weather is in the 60s and 70s Fahrenheit during late-September. Bring an extra layer in case it's a cool morning. In general, we won't be doing a lot in direct sunlight.
What happens if it rains?
I don't mind overcast skies, but actual rain will hamper the portraits, so we either move indoors or if need be reschedule for another time. If we reschedule due to weather, there is no additional cost.
How much is the Deposit and what if we need to cancel the session?
A Deposit of 50% of the full cost of the session is payable at the time of booking. The balance is due when the proofs are delivered (usually within three weeks, and often quicker). If you cancel for any reason within seven days of the session, you'll receive a refund of your deposit, less 350 nis, or you may choose an alternate time if one is available. There is no refund of the deposit for cancellations made less than 24 hours from the scheduled session (except for weather reasons as noted above - sickness is on a case-by-case basis). However, if you cancel less than 24 hours and choose to reschedule prior to December 1st of this year, I will offer a 25% discount on the new portrait session.
What is the full-day option and how is it different than the portrait sessions? (And why is it so costly?)
The full-day option is part of a special program that I offer called The Family Documentary Project and includes a full 10 hours of documentary photographic coverage of your family. Consider it a "Day in the Life" of your family - a valuable opportunity to have an acclaimed photojournalist and fine art photographer create a visual document of the lives of the people most important to you, in a country most important to you, Israel. I will be there with you for many hours, recording the activities and interactions of your family in the home (or at your temporary place of residence) and outside in the environs of Jerusalem, or anywhere else in Israel where you will be traveling. The artistry of the imagery and pure emotional reality captured in each of the photographs will allow you to see yourselves in ways that you never have before. The full-day option is is a very personalized session. I meet briefly with each family prior to the actual day of the session (face to face when possible) and again afterwards to go over the photographs. I then personally design a 35-page keepsake album, sequencing and arranging the photographs as a photo essay.
The Family Documentary Project itself is a longer term, multi-session project and can incorporate film too. This full-day session is a taste or smaller version of the longer term, more in depth project and provides you with what can be considered one of the most articulate visual statements available of who you really are as a family. The full-day option is an investment that preserves your family forever through the photographic medium, for this generation and subsequent ones. Half-day options may also be available.
Are you available for individual portraits or engagement photographs in Jerusalem?
Absolutely... you don't have to be a family to have me photograph you. Individuals or couples are welcome. Contact me to discuss availability and affordable pricing options.
Can we hire you to cover a family event we are planning?
Yes, Judah S. Harris Photography + Film provides a complete range of creative photography and video services for weddings, bar and bas mitzvahs, and other celebrations, family and organizational, both in the US and Israel, and other locations. Please contact me to discuss the event and the dates and visit the website for more information about my creative work. Check out portfolios here: www.judahsharris.com/folio
Do you teach photography?
Judah S. Harris Photo Workshops offers classes for adults and kids in photography and also filmmaking. Seasonal in Israel or the NY area, and online when available, both group and one-on-one private lessons. Judah writes regularly on photography and is working on a kids photo book that will include photos and instruction. For information on classes, email workshops@judahsharris.com. Check links below for more photo education opportunity.
- Join the mailing list for Judah S. Harris Photo Workshops
- See recent schedules for photo classes for kids in Jerusalem and adults in NYC
- Join 1500+ followers on the Facebook page and gain photography insights
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About Judah S. Harris
Judah S. Harris is an accomplished visual artist, educator, writer, and inspiring public speaker, and one of the most recognized photographers in the Jewish community. His work has appeared on the pages of The New York Times, The Forward, Ami and Mishpacha Magazines, and many other Jewish publications, as well as on the covers of more than 40 novels to date. Judah creates visual marketing products for corporate and organizational clients, provides photography and video for special events and celebrations, and enables families to discover and preserve their histories through his Family Documentary Project.
Judah S. Harris Photography + Film
Phone: 050 301 1648 Jerusalem • 718 380-7945 New York
Email: judah@judahsharris.com