Capturing milestone moments is always special, but photographing Kian’s 1st birthday party was truly a heartwarming experience. His family celebrated with a traditional Korean Doljanchi, a beautiful and meaningful first birthday tradition filled with love, excitement, and cultural significance.

A Stunning Doljanchi Setup

From the moment I arrived, I was amazed by the gorgeous decorations that made the celebration feel even more special. The setup was beautifully arranged, with elegant colors, traditional Korean elements, and a stunning display table filled with symbolic items for the Doljabi ceremony. Every detail was carefully planned, creating the perfect atmosphere for this unforgettable day.

A decorated white cake on a wooden stand with a toy bear and greenery displayed near fresh green apples.
Decorative gold tea set on lace doily with green and orange fruits arranged on mint green table.
Wooden bowl of fresh citrus fruits with apples sits beside decorative cork holder and small basket on rustic table surface.
A wedding dessert table decorated with fresh citrus fruits, eucalyptus greenery, and a vintage tiered cake stand.
A frosted glass sign displays 'Kian' in both English and Korean text, with delicate green foliage visible in the background.

A Special Korean Tradition: Doljabi

One of the highlights of the Doljanchi was the Doljabi—a tradition where the birthday child picks an item that symbolizes their future. Kian was surrounded by his loving family as they eagerly watched, guessing which item he would choose. The excitement built as family members made their predictions, and the winner even received a prize! It was a joyful moment filled with laughter and cheers.

Colorful kitchen-themed fridge magnets and cooking utensils scattered on a dark circular surface.
Baby in blue hoodie lying on play mat with various colorful toys scattered on round tray nearby.
Wedding reception venue with decorated banquet table and guests mingling in an indoor setting.
Small child wearing a blue winter hat plays with colorful toy cars on a large circular tray while looking at a book.
A child wearing navy blue sits on a floor with colorful toy blocks displayed on a black circular tray nearby.
Young child in traditional blue outfit plays with colorful toys and objects on a decorative black table.

Music, Poetry, and Heartfelt Moments

Beyond the traditions, Kian’s parents created deeply personal and emotional moments during the celebration. His father played a special song on the guitar, one that Kian hears every day. Seeing this beautiful father-son connection unfold was truly touching.

Kian’s mother also shared a deeply emotional moment—she had written a heartfelt poem for her baby boy, bringing tears to the eyes of many guests. It was a reminder of how fast time flies and how precious these first-year memories are.

Musicians perform together at an indoor venue with one playing acoustic guitar and another singing in black and white.
A musician plays acoustic guitar while entertaining a small group in a bright indoor space.
A joyful moment shared between a parent and child wearing a star-patterned winter hat in a bright room.
A person with long curly dark hair wearing a white shirt stands smiling while looking at their phone near a lavender plant.
Someone plays acoustic guitar while others enjoy a musical moment in a brightly lit living room decorated with white flowers.
Someone uses their phone in a bright kitchen with dried lavender and citrus fruits on the counter.

Candid & Fun Moments That Tell a Story

One of my favorite things about event photography is capturing real, candid moments that tell the story of the day. One photo that perfectly sums up the fun and personality of this celebration is a shot of Kian drinking his baby bottle while his dad sipped a beer—both enjoying their beverages side by side. It’s little moments like this that make event photography so special—preserving memories in a natural, joyful way.

Professional in a white dress shirt and tie drinks from a glass while sitting in a wooden chair at an event.

Kian’s Joyful Personality

Throughout the party, Kian was having the time of his life. He played with new toys, laughed with his family, and one of his favorite moments was when everyone started clapping. Every time guests clapped, his eyes lit up with pure joy—he absolutely loved seeing everyone clapping together.

People sharing joyful moments during a family gathering at an indoor celebration space.
A joyful baby wearing a blue star-patterned hat smiles while being held at a gathering.
A young child wearing a navy blue coat and winter hat sits on a white couch at what appears to be a special event.
A child wearing traditional dress and decorative hat poses during a cultural celebration.
Two people in matching navy blue and white floral patterns share a joyful moment together indoors.
A child in a navy blue outfit and star-patterned hat stands by a window inside a restaurant.
A child in a navy blue winter coat and hat looks out a snowy restaurant window.

A Meaningful Birthday Celebration

The celebration was filled with delicious food, love, and traditions. The family gathered for a special lunch before singing happy birthday. One of the most meaningful details? They blew out the candle at the exact time Kian was born, making the moment even more sentimental.

As a photographer, being part of such a special occasion was an honor. Capturing Kian’s first birthday—the love, laughter, and cultural traditions—was truly unforgettable. These photos will be cherished by his family for years to come, preserving this milestone in the most beautiful way.

A family poses together at an elegant event with floral decor and a white backdrop.
A young family shares a tender moment against a white backdrop with greenery overhead as they embrace their baby in navy blue.
A group gathers around a decorated table with food and greenery for a special celebration under floral arch decor.
A family gathers around a table decorated with floral arrangements and linens for a celebration.
Close up shot of hands decorating a cake with greenery and floral elements on a table with scattered botanicals.
A styled dessert table features fresh fruits, treats and greenery garland against a white backdrop.
People celebrate around an elegantly decorated table with white flowers, fresh fruits and treats under a floral archway.
A whimsical woodland birthday cake decorated with green trees, candles, fern leaves and miniature forest animal figurines.
A celebratory scene with a decorated table full of fruits and desserts under a floral arch.
A family enjoys a playful moment together in front of a white wall decorated with greenery.
Three people share a joyful moment in front of a white wall with greenery decor.
A family gathers around a beautifully decorated table with fresh fruits and treats during a celebration.
A joyful celebration at a baptism event with floral decorations and vintage decor.
A family gathers around a beautifully decorated dessert table with floral arrangements and treats at a celebration event.

Planning a First Birthday Party?

If you're celebrating your little one's first birthday and want to capture these unforgettable moments, I'd love to help! Whether it's a Doljanchi, a themed party, or an intimate gathering, I specialize in capturing the joy and emotions of the day. Contact me to book your session and let’s create timeless memories together!