Certain photo shoots are funny little windows into someone else’s lives or cultures. This was one of them. Having never been to South Korea or knowing too much about Korean culture, I got to be a part of this interesting tradition. I was invited to photograph little Kai’s doljabi.
For those unfamiliar with the ritual, Doljabi is a Korean tradition where a one-year-old child is placed in front of a carefully selected array of objects. The item the child chooses is believed to symbolise their potential future path. For example, a pencil speaks to academic success, while a stethoscope could indicate a career in medicine, and money suggests a prosperous future.
Little Kai’s mother, Yingyu, was passionate about preserving this meaningful cultural tradition. And Yingyu’s parents were there to bear witness to Kai’s choice.
We had the ceremony at Fitzgerald; a beautiful backdrop for the intimate family event, placing the special ceremony in nature. As you can tell by all of my photo shoots, I love photographing outdoors in the lush, green nature.
Dad’s delighted
Following in his dad’s footstep, Kai chose the paintbrush
When the crucial moment arrived for Kai to make his choice, he picked the paintbrush – an artist’s choice. His animator father was most delighted with this outcome, proud to have his baby following his footsteps.
Kai’s grandfather tried so hard to convince him to take the money, possibly altering his future but Kai remained resolute in his decision to be focused on his artistry instead. Haha!
Kai didn’t show the slightest interest in grandad’s €€€!
This doljabi was more than just a photoshoot - it was a celebration of culture, family, and potential. Each carefully chosen object represented not just a potential career path, but a hope, a dream for little Kai's future. The way Yingyu and John embraced this tradition while allowing their son the freedom to make his own choice was beautiful to witness and capture.
I love the diversity humanity has to offer and I love having the opportunity to capture the moments that make it special. I celebrate the things that make us different because that’s what makes us human. So from different cultures and traditions to different orientations and preferences, I’m here to embrace them all, as long as love is at the centre.
If you would like to book me for your special family event, say hi to me here!