Jake's Bar Mitzvah Pre-Shoot | Wynwood Walls Miami, FL

Jake’s Bar Mitzvah pre‑shoot took us to the colorful Wynwood Walls in Miami, one of my favorite places to photograph because every session becomes its own little adventure. I love the discovery of the neighborhood, how each corner offers something new, and how the whole experience becomes collaborative and creative. When you’re having fun, it shows in your photos, and this family had fun. It’s written all over the images.

This is their second mitzvah with me, and seeing Landon again stopped me in my tracks. He has gotten so big. One of the things I love most about photographing Bar and Bat Mitzvahs is getting to witness that growth over the years. It’s such a privilege to be invited back into a family’s story as the kids grow into themselves.

There’s also something extra special about this family for me. My mom taught their dad in third grade, so documenting these milestones feels full circle in the sweetest way. As a South Florida Bar Mitzvah photographer, I love capturing celebrations and pre‑shoots in Miami, Boca Raton, Hollywood and beyond, and I’m always honored to be part of these moments.

Hailey's Bat Mitzvah Pre Shoot | Tree Tops Park Davie, FL Photographer

When Hailey first stepped out of the car, she gave me a look that said she wasn’t quite sure about this whole photo shoot thing. After a quick pep talk about being herself and just letting the camera see her, everything shifted. Hailey warmed up beautifully, and before long she was laughing, moving with ease, and showing off her personality in the most natural way.

The session turned into something really special. Hailey took direction so well, but more importantly, she let herself shine. The light at Tree Tops Park was absolutely stunning, streaming through the trees as we explored together. Every turn seemed to reveal another pocket of golden glow, and Hailey matched it with her own radiance.

I’m so looking forward to celebrating the big event in the weeks ahead. If you’re planning a Bat Mitzvah and searching for a Davie, FL Bat Mitzvah photographer or a South Florida family photographer, Tree Tops Park is one of my favorite spots for portraits. As a lifestyle family and mitzvah photographer in Davie and Plantation, FL, I love capturing authentic moments, natural light, and the connections that make each family unique.


Shosh’s Bat Mitzvah Pre-Shoot | Miami, FL Mitzvah & Family Photography

Shosh’s Bat Mitzvah pre-shoot was such a joy to photograph. She’s so grown up now, and it’s wild to think this marks our tenth year of working together. Some quick math says she was only three when we first met, and I still remember photographing her when her littlest sister was in mom’s belly. It goes by so quickly, and it’s been such an honor to freeze time for this family at special milestones along the way.

For her pre-shoot, Shosh chose to include her pups, and I loved that. Both are clearly adored, but her connection with Jude is something special. Watching them together felt effortless, full of pure comfort and love. We captured that bond in a way that felt true to who she is, and it made the session feel even more personal.

I’m so excited to photograph the main event soon. If you’re planning a Bat Mitzvah and looking for a Miami, FL mitzvah and family photographer who values connection, personality, and capturing what makes your family uniquely you, I’d love to be part of your celebration.

Olivia's Bat Mitzvah Pre Shoot | Hollywood Beach, FL Photographer

There’s something special about photographing a family as they get ready for a Bat Mitzvah. The excitement, the love, and those quiet in-between moments always feel meaningful. For Olivia’s pre-shoot, I got to reconnect with her mom, who was my buddy from sleepaway camp. Watching Olivia show up with that same bright, confident, joyful energy her mama had at that age was such a full-circle moment.

We met at Hollywood Beach, where the family wanted portraits surrounded by nature. The soft light, ocean breeze, and open space gave us the perfect backdrop for relaxed, joyful images. Olivia and her sister were so sweet together, sharing giggles and gentle moments that made my job easy. And when it was just Olivia in front of the camera, her quiet solo confidence came through beautifully, grounded in her family’s love and support.

I’m looking forward to celebrating Olivia’s Bat Mitzvah later this year. If you’re planning a mitzvah in South Florida, I would love to help you capture the heart of your family’s journey, from pre-shoot to party, with warmth, style, and authenticity.

Matty's Bar Mitzvah Pre Shoot | Hollywood, FL Mitzvah Photographer

A few weeks before Matty’s Labor Day weekend bar mitzvah, we met him and his family at Hollywood Beach for a relaxed, early evening pre-shoot. The light was golden, the breeze was gentle, and the connection between them was unmistakable. These sessions are a chance to slow down and celebrate the journey before the big day—and Matty brought his quiet confidence and easy smile to every frame.

The images from this shoot weren’t just keepsakes—they became part of the celebration itself. Displayed on screens throughout the event, they added a personal, visual touch that reminded guests of the love and pride surrounding Matty’s milestone. It was a beautiful way to honor the moment and the people who helped shape it.

So You by Erica Sue is a South Florida-based lifestyle portrait and event photography brand specializing in authentic storytelling across Broward, Miami-Dade, and Palm Beach counties. From beachside pre-shoots to full-day mitzvah celebrations, each session is crafted with warmth, clarity, and care to preserve the moments that matter most.