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.

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

A mitzvah pre shoot portrait session is a great opportunity to get to know your photographer, get some fun relaxed photos with your family, and get some photos of the mitzvah child to enjoy in decor or programs or for other day of celebratory photo purposes. It was an absolute pleasure to spend the evening with Leila and her family. Mom and I had chatted quite a bit before our session. She wasn’t sure if the family would be able to “pull it together”, and I shared a story about one of my best portfolio pics of all time, which was taken in a very not put together moment. I encouraged her to gather the family and show as themselves, and THEY DID. They showed up authentically in front of the camera, and it’s magic every time. Thank you for sharing your you with me! Enjoy this sneak peek of the result!

Kylie's Bat Mitzvah Pre Shoot | Hollywood, FL Mitzvah Photographer

I'm so excited to share the sneak peeks from this lovely Bat Mitzvah family pre-shoot. We met at the beach on a weeknight for better weather (after 2 reschedules due to rain and then wind), and less crowds. And it was worth the wait!

We were hanging out with the recycled art and golden hour light on the Broadwalk, and were invited to meet the sea turtles! One waved at and interacted with us. Such a friendly little guy! We finished up our session on the beach where Kylie got to tumble for the camera. How fab is the back of that leotard?!

A Family at Hollywood Beach FL | Lifsetyle Family Photographer

I loved getting to meet this family for their photo session last year, so I was absolutely thrilled to get them on the calendar again for this year! During the pandemic, we’ve all been taking refuge outdoors, as a break from the four walls of our homes, and many of us have been spending a lot of time at the beach. So it was no surprise that this family wanted this year’s session on the sand, and I was happy to oblige! We were blessed with an oasis of sunshine between weeks of rain, and this family brought their own inner light to reflect the light of the sunshine!