Rine Photographics

Sorry for not posting

2009-05-10T20:43:00.000-07:00

Hello everybody!

It's been a couple of months since I posted anything, and I apologize for that. Thank G-d I've been busy. With work, the family, and life. So for those of you who have been asking, "What's going on with the blog?", the answer is I will try to update more often.

These aren't even all of the up to date events/images. If you enjoy these, or have any questions, feel free to drop me a line.

Funk-Hall Wedding - February 24, 2009

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Krystal-Tyner Wedding - February 12, 2009

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Yondorf-Arlin Wedding - February 8, 2009

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Miriam and Ilan were so much fun to work with. Mazel Tov again guys!

Messing-Goldring Wedding - January 18, 2009

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It was great working with Devorah and Matis and their families. What great people to work with. Even those who don't like being photographed! Mazel Tov again guys.

Michael Medved Event at Kesser Ma'ariv - Jan 17, 2009

2009-01-17T22:29:00.000-08:00

Tonight I photographed Michael Medved as he spoke to a crowd of over 300 people about his new book "The 10 Big Lies About America". He was smart, funny, wonderful to work with, and I hope I get the opportunity to work with him again.

Mendelsberg-Joseph Wedding - Jan 12, 2009

2009-01-14T11:06:00.003-08:00

What can I say about Tzipporah & Sammy? I am so lucky to do what I do. Fantastic couple, awesome families, and you want Shtick?

Thanks again guys for letting me photograph your wedding!

Shlomo Ashkanazy's Bar Mitzvah - Jan 10, 2009

2009-01-14T11:06:00.001-08:00

I cannot believe Shlomo's 13 already! Wow! And he's such a Mentsch too!

It was a pleasure working with the Ashkanazy's (and Goldsteins).

Mazel Tov again guys!

Interesting question

2009-01-05T10:56:00.000-08:00

I received the following e-mail the other day. As I was writing my response I decided to post it here also.

ORIGINAL E-MAIL
I will be getting married this summer and am looking for a photographer. If we are going to be having an orthodox wedding, what are the benefits of having a photographer who has experience shooting such weddings, such as you, as opposed to another wedding photographer that will take pictures of whatever you tell them to, but may not have seen a frum wedding?

MY RESPONSE
Mazel tov on your upcoming wedding!

To answer your question, there are many benefits to having a photographer who has experience photographing an Orthodox Jewish wedding vs. A photographer who has not. I'll try to address key points that come up in chronological order on a typical wedding day shoot.

Overall, at most non-Jewish/non-Orthodox weddings, there is a sense of slight awe, with important ceremonies and the reverence of which they should be treated. If you have attended any Orthodox Jewish wedding, the sense of decorum is not as controlled (even at the most important time of an Orthodox Jewish wedding (Chuppah), it is almost assured that you will find a bunch of people talking and laughing with each other either in the back of the room, or along the sides).

During portraits, at most Orthodox Jewish weddings, there is the concept of N'giyah, which is not having members of the opposite gender touching even casually. When I am photographing a bride for example, if I see some stray hair, or the clasp for her necklace is showing, I actually have a female assistant there to help with this as it would be COMPLETELY inappropriate for me to go and touch her hair/jewelry/personal space. Most non-Jewish/non-Orthodox photographers are not aware of this, and it is a difficult concept to implement in your life if you are not already aware of it.
Also during portraits, the concept of Nidah, where a married couple may not be touching each other can come up. The photographer who knows nothing about nidah will not understand the body language clues that are given off, and then say "You two need to have your arms around each other, because you're husband and wife." This will result in either the couple feeling pushed into doing something they don't want, or them feeling awkward at having to try to explain why they are not touching.

During Tish there's a lot going on. Noise, commotion, people eating, people talking, and during all of this mayhem, at the head table are the Groom, Fathers, and Rabbi trying to go through the necessary steps of the wedding. There aren't usually anouncements saying, "The Aidim will now witness the kinyan!" Without knowing what is a key part of the wedding and what is not, a photographer will miss important shots. The Aidim for Tanaaim watch the fathers making a Kinyan, The signing of the Tanaaim by the Aidim, The mothers breaking the plate IMMEDIATELY after the Tanaaim is read, Aidim for the kesuba watching the chosson make his kinyan. If a photographer is not used to photographing this kind of "free for all" event, they will miss these shots because they will not know to expect them.

Kabbalas Panim it isn't as crazy as Tish, only because it is a general mayhem area, without key parts of the wedding being played out. This being said however, I always photograph an Orthodox Jewish wedding with a minimum of 2 photographers (my second photographer is female). So while I'm covering Tish, she is in Kabbals Panim.

During Bedekken, the Chosson enters, makes sure it's the right bride, then lowers the veil. Usually the fathers then give her a Bracha (sometimes grandfathers do as well). When they do this, they usually put their hands on her head (hopefully just barely touching, as the veil is in pretty tightly) and when they are done with the Brachas they usually give her a kiss on her head. If a photographer doesn't know that the fathers usually go for a kiss (which is a great shot!) once they get a shot of the hands on the head, they might start looking for reaction shots (mom dabbing at a tear, etc) but they would miss the kiss (and then kick themselves for not having gotten it, as would their clients).

After Bedekken, the Chosson is usually taken to a private room away from the crowd. His parents usually then give him a Bracha. Again, a photographer used to a non-Jewish/non-Orthodox wedding may not follow the groom, and might not realize what happens then, and miss these images.

Then we have Chuppah. During the main wedding ceremony for other weddings, the scene at the altar is one of perfection. Each member of the bridal party has their assigned position, and has (usually) rehearsed their role in the wedding. It doesn't quite work like that at an Orthodox Jewish wedding. For starters, there is no rehearsal. So there is some slight anxiety of the participants not knowing for sure if they are in the right positions. Walking down the aisle shots, no problems. But then after the groom walks down, the music begins and the Bride's side starts walking down. BUT THE CHOSSON IS PUTTING HIS KITTEL ON UNDER CHUPPAH! Unless your photographer knows that he will do that, they will miss the shot.
Kallah comes to Chuppah, walks around the Groom 7 times. Usually, while walking around, I have noticed that the bride will try to look at the groom as she comes around his front. The Chosson may be busy davening, or he may be waiting to catch her eye as she comes around. If a photographer doesn't know what to expect, they will miss this close-up moment and set-up only for a general walking around him shot. Then the Mesader Kiddushin takes the wine, makes brachas, then the Chosson's father gives him the cup, then the Kallah's mother gives her the cup. Not many people realize that at the end of chuppah, when they drink again, the BRIDE'S FATHER gives the cup to the Chosson, and the GROOM'S MOTHER gives the cup to the kallah. A minor detail to some, but huge to others. Then the ring. It is so imperative that a photographer NOT tell an Aid under Chuppah to stay out of his shot. At most non-Orthodox/nonJewish weddings, the photographer and/or videographer are not supposed to be anywhere near the ceremony. This means that the pictures are all photographed from a distance. At an Orthodox Jewish wedding, at the Chuppah evrybody stands closely together and they all want to see what is happening. Therefore, if the photographer is too far away, they will not be able to reposition themselves when the participants under the Chuppah move and block the shot.

My favorite part of "culture shock" to a photographer who has never attended or photographed an Orthodox Jewish wedding is right after the Chosson breaks the glass. For non-Jewish/non-Orthodox weddings, at the conclusion of the ceremony, there is a recessional. The Bride and Groom walk slowly down the aisle smiling to friends and family, followed by their attending Bridesmaids and Ushers, while the crowd applauds politely. At an Orthodox Jewish wedding, the groom steps on the glass, and chaos erupts. People start singing at the top of their lungs while they rush the Chuppah. Under the Chuppah, the Chosson & Kallah don't kiss (usually), but they hug all of their family members and friends and rabbis who are at the Chuppah.
No pomp and circumstance recessional, just a bunch of screaming, singing guys escorting Bride and Groom to Yichud.

At other weddings, when the Bride and groom enter the reception, traditionally they start with a waltz. When the Chosson and Kallah enter the reception, again, there is chaos. Arches for them to run under, Confetti may be thrown from everywhere, and then a rousing workout called first set of dancing.

There might be other moments during a wedding, but other than these, I can't really think of anything that would necessitate a photographer to be familiar with Orthodox Jewish weddings.

If you ask a Portrait Artist for a still life, or a Lawyer who specializes in Criminal Law for advice on setting up a will, one should not have the same expectaions as asking a still life artist or estate lawyer.

Mazel tov again, and please feel free to contact me with any other questions, comments, or concerns.

Sincerely,
Yudi Rine

Rine Photographics
847.687.0923
www.rinephoto.com

Simcha Gulevsky's Bar Mitzvah - January 3, 2009

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Mazel Tov Simcha!

Naiman-Goldberg Wedding - December 30, 2008

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Devorah & Dovid and their families were so great to work with. They should be zoche for many, many happy times, with Hatzlacha and Bracha in everything, and in building a Bayis Neeman B'yisrael!
Mazel Tov again!

Appel-Draizin Wedding - December 28, 2008

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On the eighth night of Chanukkah I was priveleged to photograph Marc & Karen's wedding. Talk about fun. These guys are just so cute together, and with Ana, Michael, and Richard, we got some really nice images. The event was planned and arranged by A & E (Anything & Everything) 773-633-5869. Here are some fun images from the evening. Enjoy!

Mr. Carpet Co.

2008-12-22T13:00:00.000-08:00

I had a great time working with Doug, Mike, and Sarah today from Mr. Carpet Company. They provide in home carpeting and flooring sales and installation. Please visit them at http://www.mrcarpetshopathome.com

December 21, 2008-Congregation F.R.E.E. Chanukah Bowl, Bocce, and Bar

2008-12-22T12:56:00.000-08:00

For the first night of Chanukah, I was invited to photograph Congregation F.R.E.E. having a fun bowling/bocci event at Pinstripes in Northbrook. I've been there so often recently, that as I walked in one of the workers said "Oh fun, it's you again!"

There was lots of good food, menorah making, and bowling and bocci (obviously). A good time was had by all. What a great way to start Chanukah!

Toys for Tots at WGN - December 12, 2008

2008-12-15T09:57:00.001-08:00

On December 12, I was with ABC Communications again, this time at the Toys for Tots Drop at WGN.

IT WAS COLD!!!

I did however get on camera with an endorsement from ABC Communications. To see all of the images please visit the "Toys for Tots" link in the "Recent Events".

Meet & Mingle Event at Britt Carter - December 11, 2008

2008-12-15T09:51:00.000-08:00

When I first heard that the Meet & Mingle Event would be at Britt Carter, I as a tad concerned. A networking event at a furniture showroom? Fear not stalwart readers! The event went beautifully, due in large part to the location, but also to all of the vendors and professionals attending. Enjoy!

9 on 9 at Water Tower Place - December 4, 2008

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The "9 On 9" event was put on by ABC Communications to generate awareness and increase exposure for the many shops and boutiques on the 9th floor of Water Tower Place and some of the merchants located in the Streeterville area. To view all of the images, look for 9 On 9 in the "Recent Events".

NCSY Annual Dinner - December 1, 2008

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A great organization honoring truly worthy people this year. Thank you for letting me be a part of it!

Kevin Finn's Bar Mitzvah - November 28, 2008

2008-12-15T08:35:00.000-08:00

I was fortunate to photograph Michael's Bar Mitzvah a couple of years ago, and now Rine Photographics had the privellege of photographing Kevin's. He got big! I'm so lucky to do what I do and to be involved in family's happier times!

Mazel Tov Finns!

Yacov Steinberg's Bar Mitzvah - November 28, 2008

2008-12-15T08:00:00.000-08:00

I was able to join the Steinberg family in celebrating Yacov's Bar Mitzvah. Holy cow! I remember when Mark and Julie got married, let alone the birth of the kids, Yudi's Bar Mitzvah a couple of years ago, etc. etc. I must be getting old :)

Mazel tov Yacov, and great job!

Kinneret Braun's Bat Mitzvah - November 27, 2008

2008-12-15T07:44:00.000-08:00

This year for Thanksgiving I was able to join the Braun family for Kinneret's Bat Mitzvah party. Good people, good food, good fun all around. Mazel tov Kinneret!

Marci Steinberg's Bat Mitzvah - November 21, 22, & 23, 2008

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Three years ago I photographed Lauren's Bat Mitzvah, and was introduced to such a wonderful family. In November, I had the opportunity to work with the Steinbergs again for Marci's Bat Mitzvah.

Thanks for putting up with me, and I hope you enjoy the images as much as I do.

Oh yeah, and thanks for the CD Marci.

Menachem Comrov's Bar Mitzvah - November 8, 2008

2008-11-03T09:11:00.000-08:00

I feel so honored to have been a part of the Comrov extended family for so long.

Mazel Tov to all of the Comrovs, and your simchas should only continue!

Emma Bernstein Bat Mitzvah - November 2, 2008

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What a fun family! All the way around. Kids, Parents, Uncles, Aunts, Grandparents, everyone!

Keep having fun guys!

Yeshiva Beis Yisroel Melave Malka - November 1, 2008

2008-11-03T09:09:00.000-08:00

At last year's Beis Yisroel's Melave Malka, they started writing a sefer torah in zchus of Maury & Helen Kaufman. Now, they are almost done with it! I feel so lucky to be able to capture the beginning and almost completion of this Torah. Their neshamos should have many Aliyos, the family should only know continued Simchos, and the Yeshiva should continue to be Matzliach in its endeavors.

Zahava Auerbach Bat Mitzvah - October 30, 2008

2008-11-03T09:06:00.000-08:00

Wow, I remember carrying Zahava on my shoulders for Simchas Torah! She got so big. I was also blown away by her laining. Way to go Zahava!

Joey Rubin Bar Mitzvah Portraits - October 26, 2008

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Mazel Tov to the Rubin and Simon Families! Joey should continue to grow in learning and middos. Thanks for keeping it fun!

Asher Loskove Bar Mitzvah Portraits - October 24, 2008

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Mazel Tov Asher, Moshe, Esther, Parents, and Grandparents on Asher's Bar Mitzvah!

I am truly fortunate to do what I do. I've been photographing the Loskove family since Esther's Bat Mitzvah. To be able to create tangible memories for a family through the years is truly a special responsibility. Thank you again Loskoves, and I look forward to (G-d willing) capturing more memories for you in the future. Enjoy!

Yoni Gabel Bar Mitzvah Portraits-October 24, 2008

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Yeesh! Take a couple of weeks, bounce between Yontiff and Shabbos for awhile, and then for good measure add a bunch of work. But Yoni (and his family) were AWESOME! super cool and fun family. I'll get the pictures up as soon as I can. In the meantime, enjoy these.

Eli Abramowitz's Bar Mitzvah-October 19, 2008

2008-10-24T13:48:00.001-07:00

Talk about Simcha on Succos! Eli (and all of the Abramowitzes), thank you for letting me photograph your Bar Mitzvah. I hope you enjoy the pictures as much as I do. I think we got some terrific images.

Chana Leah's Sr Portraits-October 16, 2008

2008-10-24T12:40:00.000-07:00

What a fun session. We got some great images. Her personality just leaps out at you! Thanks Chana Leah.

Avi Gutstein's Bar Mitzvah - September 27, 2008

2008-10-06T07:36:00.000-07:00

Another Gutstein simcha, how fun! Mazel Tov to the entire Gutstein and Silverstein Families.

Home Bound Healthcare Open House - September 23, 2008

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Congratulations Home Bound Healthcare! Keep up the good work!

Gesher Hatorah's 2nd Annual Dinner at Chicago Botanic Gardens - September 21, 2008

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Mazel Tov To the Silversteins and Adelmans for being honored by such a wonderful institution! I look forward to working with Gesher Hatorah in the future.

Kayla Wolgel's Bat Mitzvah - September 21, 2008

2008-09-22T07:12:00.001-07:00

Mazel tov Kayla, Nava, Sandy, and Regina. Thank you so much for letting me be a part of the Bat Mitzvah, and may the girls provide nachas for you and for all of klal yisroel. The rest of the pictures will be ready soon!

Frand-Niknum Wedding - September 15, 2008

2008-09-22T07:11:00.000-07:00

Mazel Tov Jennifer & Rafi! What a great couple to photograph. And terriffic families to work with too! Thank you guys again for letting me photograph the wedding for you. Here are some shots from the wedding to tide you over until all of the others are ready. Enjoy!

Billboards!

2008-09-15T07:44:00.001-07:00

One of my corporate clients is a company called Home Bound Healthcare. I recently got a call from them letting me know that there are 2 billboards in the Chicagoland area featuring my work! This is the first time I have had my work featured on billboards. It's a little surreal to see, but very cool. One is located at California and Touhy on the SE corner (pictured below). The other billboard is located just off of the Northbound I-294 in Melrose Park on the left hand side of the expressway (pictured above). You can see more of the work I've done for them at their website http://www.HomeBoundHealth.com/.

Isaac Bernhaut Bar Mitzvah Portraits - September 12, 2008

2008-09-14T18:44:00.000-07:00

To Isaac and the whole Bernhaut family, a hearty Mazel tov! I'm glad I was able to photograph you guys on Friday. I"MH we won't get rained out from future Simchas. Mazel Tov again!

New Baby Boy Rine - September 10, 2008

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My wife, kids, and I welcomed a new, beautiful baby boy to our family! Thank you to everyone who helped us celebrate this joyous and wondrous addition to our home.

Yechiel Schaffel Bar Mitzvah - August 25, 2008

2008-09-14T12:47:00.001-07:00

Wow, I can't believe Yechiel's a Bar Mitzvah Bachur already! Time flies. Here are some portraits to enjoy. He should continue to be a source of Joy & Pride for all.

Elissa Hoberman-Steven Seltzer Wedding - August 24, 2008

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Mazel Tov Elissa & Steven.
Thank you for allowing me to photograph your wedding.
Enjoy the images!

August 11, Zelig's Upshernish

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Mazel Tov to the Notik family and to all of Klal Yisroel. May Zelig continue to more Middos, Ahavas Habriyos, Torah, Chuppah, and Ma'asim Tovim!

August 11, Shani Belsky & Eli Gross Vort

2008-08-14T20:01:00.000-07:00

Mazel Tov Shani & Eli on your engagement! It's always a pleasure to be at a Belsky simcha. I look forward to being at the wedding!

Sunday July 27, Yosef Chaim's Bar Mitzvah

2008-08-14T18:52:00.000-07:00

Mazel Tov Yosef Chaim. Yasher Koach on your D'var Torah, and you should have continued success in all of your pursuits.

Sunday July 27, Schwartz Families

2008-07-29T12:13:00.000-07:00

Had a great time photographing the Schwartz families again this past Sunday. The kids were great and getting so BIG!! Thanks again Schwartzes!

Rena and Jeremy's Wedding

2008-06-26T20:29:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Rena and Jeremy for being a fun couple to photograph. Here are a few images to tide you over...

JUF Country Club Days

2008-06-18T18:35:00.000-07:00

I had the opportunity to photograph Sam Donaldson for the JUF. He's a great man and it was an honor and a pleasure to work with him.