Babka, Community, and Connection: Event Photography at Jewish Surprise of Arizona By Phoenix Event Photographer, Jennifer Lind Schutsky

There is something profoundly meaningful about documenting an event centered around food—especially when that food is tied to ritual, tradition, and community. Recently, I had the honor of photographing the Babka Bake at Jewish Surprise of Arizona, a vibrant Chabad community located in Surprise, Arizona on the west side of the Valley. As a Phoenix-based event photographer, these are the moments I live for—capturing culture, connection, and joy as they unfold naturally.

This Babka Bake wasn’t just a culinary workshop; it was an expression of heritage. Generations gathered around the tables—parents, children, grandparents, long-time community members, and brand-new residents—rolling dough, spreading chocolate filling, laughing, helping one another, and sharing stories. The ritual of cooking together creates a spiritual rhythm all its own. It nourishes not only the body but also the soul. And in that shared experience, community becomes stronger.

As a documentary-style event photographer in Phoenix, my goal is always to observe quietly and capture the real emotion of the moment. I focus on the gestures that tell a story: the way a child watches their parent knead dough for the first time, the pride in someone’s eyes as they twist their perfect babka braid, the joy of tasting something made together. These unscripted details are what make an event feel alive long after it ends.

Photography plays a vital role in preserving community traditions. Events like this deserve to be remembered—not just through posed photos, but through images that reflect the energy and emotion of the day. For organizations, synagogues, cultural centers, and nonprofits, professional event photography helps share the story of your work, expand your reach, and strengthen your connection with the people you serve.

If you’re searching for a:

• Phoenix event photographer

• Documentary-style event photographer in Phoenix

• Jewish community event photographer

• Event photographer near Surprise, AZ

• Cultural or religious event photographer in Phoenix

I would love to help bring your story to life.

This Babka Bake was a beautiful reminder that food is more than sustenance—it’s a spiritual practice, a form of storytelling, and one of the most powerful ways to bring people together.

Photography by Jennifer Lind Schutsky — Phoenix Event Photographer, documenting meaningful moments across Arizona and beyond.