Judah S. Harris - Chol Hamoed Sukkot Family Portraits in Jerusalem (prior and post Yom Tov days also available)
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 the 2008 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 during October. 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 $150, 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). However, if you cancel less than 24 hours and choose to reschedule prior to December 1, 2008, this time in the NYC area, I will offer a $200 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 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 also in Israel. Please contact me to discuss the event and the dates and visit the website for more information about my creative work.
