Smashing the Glass | Jewish Wedding Blog

This is a guest post by award-winning wedding photographer Claudine Hartzel. Based in London, Claudine has photographed tons of gorgeous Smashing The Glass weddings over the years, and the fact that she’s Jewish herself means she’s got special insight into all the things that make a Jewish wedding so special. With 15 years’ experience capturing Jewish weddings, no one’s got a better read of how Jewish wedding photography has evolved in recent years – and that’s exactly what she’s chatting about with us today. 

Focus on Authenticity and Emotion

Then: Jewish wedding photography used to emphasize formal group portraits and documentary-style images, capturing every table and guest. The lighting was often poor, and the images could feel stiff, lacking the warmth and personality of the event itself.

Now: There’s a major shift towards candid, authentic storytelling. Today’s couples want their wedding captured as a true love story – complete with raw, emotional moments that could easily grace the pages of a high-end magazine or Instagram feed. While family and group photos are still important, the focus has shifted to the in-between moments, where emotions are at their purest. These real, fleeting connections between family members and guests are often the most treasured memories. I will also bring a second photographer to capture the rooms shots, back shots and reception so I’m not taken away from the main events.

Blending Tradition with Modernity

Then: Jewish wedding photography was often highly traditional, focusing on ceremonial moments like capturing every part of the hora, and ensuring formal group shots were meticulously documented. The emphasis was on structure rather than creativity.

Now: Couples want to honour tradition while still expressing their personalities. Formal photographs are still expected, but they are fewer, more relaxed, and feel natural. When I capture moments in between the formals, it adds an expressive, authentic touch. Couples can opt to take their formal portraits before the ceremony rather than after, more in line with the Israeli style, allowing them to be fully present at their reception. Timings can be adjusted to suit their vision, not taking them away from the day. The goal is to document real emotions in a way that feels timeless, avoiding overly stylized or dated trends. And of course, a beautifully composed formal portrait always stands the test of time.

Finding the Right Balance

Then: Parents often took the reins in planning the wedding, booking vendors and managing the timeline, which sometimes left the couple with little say in their own day.

Now: The best weddings happen when couples and parents collaborate. Today’s couples take an active role in shaping their celebration, but they still involve their families in meaningful ways, whether by seeking input on traditions or guest lists. As a photographer, I facilitate this harmony by ensuring everyone’s on the same page when it comes to the timeline and key moments. Clear communication is key, and I always meet with both the couple and their parents to iron out the details—whether it’s when to capture the first look or when to help the bride into her dress. The result is a celebration that’s true to both the couple and their families.

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