Family + Event Photography in Stratford, CT, Fairfield & New Haven County. Candid, colorful, documentary-style photos for families who want real memories, not stiff poses.
Ever wondered what tradition, adorable baby giggles, and a dash of destiny look like? Let me take you behind the scenes of Gemma’s first birthday doljabi. It was a vibrant celebration rooted in Korean culture and bursting with love. Spoiler alert: It involves tiny hands choosing their future career path, squishy baby cheeks, and some of the best food I’ve ever tasted.
In Korean culture, a doljabi is more than just a birthday—it’s a cherished tradition that celebrates a baby’s milestone first year while offering a peek into their future. During this event, various symbolic items are placed before the birthday child. The baby then picks one, and each item hints at their potential path in life: a gavel for a future judge, a paintbrush for an artist, a microphone for a musician, a stethoscope for a doctor, and even thread for longevity. Watching little Gemma reach out with her tiny fingers was the cutest—and possibly most suspenseful—moment of the day, especially since there was a raffle to make it extra fun. And guess what? Little Miss Gemma—with her squishable cheeks and gummy smile—reached straight for the stethoscope. Future doctor in the making? We’ll have to wait and see, but the room erupted in cheers and laughter when she made her pick.
Stephanie and Robert hosted Gemma’s doljabi at The East Norwalk Association Library. The venue was intimate yet lively, filled with family, friends, and the warmth of celebration. Gemma, dressed in a stunning traditional Hanbok, looked like a little princess. Her parents, also dressed in Hanboks, radiated grace and pride as they shared this special day with their loved ones.
Gemma’s at the perfect age where everything is fascinating, and is full of personality. She lit up every time I sang “Wheels on the Bus” to catch her attention.
If you’re planning a special event—whether it’s a doljabi, a birthday, or just a fun family gathering—I’d love to be there to document it. I’m based in Fairfield County, Connecticut, and I also serve the New York Metro Area. Let’s make sure your memories aren’t just lived but beautifully preserved forever.
Plan the event or key moments (like speeches, group photos, or couple portraits) during golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset. The soft, warm light flatters every skin tone and creates a dreamy, ethereal vibe that enhances the mood of any photograph.
2. Fairy Lights Galore
Drape fairy lights over trees, walls, or even tables. Their warm glow creates a cozy, magical atmosphere, especially for evening events. They also act as great bokeh (blurred light) in the background of photos.
3. Bold Backdrops
Use statement walls, floral arches, or colorful murals as backdrops. They add vibrancy and a polished, intentional look to your photos. Personalize them to match the theme of your event for added impact.
4. Candids Over Poses
Encourage guests to interact naturally. Capture laughter, hugs, and those quiet moments of connection. The best photos often come from people being themselves rather than looking directly at the camera.
5. Props with Personality
Props like funky sunglasses, chalkboards with messages, or themed decor help tell the story of the event. For weddings, kids’ parties, or family reunions, these items add a playful and unique touch to photos.
6. Mix Indoor & Outdoor Shots
If your event spans indoor and outdoor spaces, use both to add variety. Indoor shots can highlight the cozy details, while outdoor shots capture openness and natural light.
7. Bright, Coordinated Outfits
While matching outfits can feel stiff, choosing complementary colors makes photos cohesive without looking overly planned. Bright colors or patterns stand out and add personality.
8. Decor Details
Photograph intricate elements like table centerpieces, floral arrangements, or unique decor pieces. These details add depth to the story and preserve the effort that went into the event’s aesthetic.
9. Interactive Activities
Events with games, DIY stations, or performances offer action-packed opportunities for great shots. Guests absorbed in activities create dynamic and joyful photos.
10. Confetti Moments
Throwing confetti at a key moment—like the end of a speech or during a toast—creates movement and color. Biodegradable confetti is eco-friendly and photographically stunning.
11. Smoke Bombs
Colorful smoke bombs create an artistic, surreal effect in photos. Use them for dramatic portraits or group shots to add whimsy and visual interest. Safely, of course.
12. Mirror Reflections
Use mirrors creatively to frame guests or decor. Mirrors can reflect light beautifully, create depth, and add a modern, artistic flair to photos.
13. Candles Everywhere
Scatter candles on tables or use candelabras to bring warmth and romance to the scene. For safety, opt for flameless candles if kids are present.
14. Dramatic Drapes
Flowy drapes in bold colors or sheer fabrics can create soft, romantic vibes. Use them on entryways, as photo booth backdrops, or even as decor for outdoor setups.
15. Focus on Laughter
Plan moments that make people genuinely laugh, like a funny toast or a silly group activity. Unscripted laughter translates into radiant, joyful photos.
16. Include the Pets
If your furry friends are part of the family, bring them along! Pets add charm and often steal the spotlight in photos with their natural curiosity and energy.
17. Capture the Prep
Photograph behind-the-scenes moments like setting up decor, getting ready, or candid interactions among family members before guests arrive. These moments tell a fuller story of the event.
18. Rainy Day? Embrace It
Rain doesn’t have to ruin photos—it can enhance them! Umbrellas, puddles, and reflections on wet surfaces can add artistic flair.
19. Neon Signs
Custom neon signs with cool phrases, this way in can provide a modern, vibrant focal point for photos. They’ll look especially striking in nighttime or indoor settings.
20. Overhead Perspectives
Use ladders, drones, or balconies to capture wide shots of the event from above. This perspective highlights the scale and energy of the crowd.
21. Capture Reactions
Focus on people’s expressions during speeches, toasts, or big reveals. Genuine reactions often tell a story that words cannot.
22. Play with Shadows
Look for interesting shadows cast by trees, windows, or decor. Shadows can create dramatic and artistic elements within photos.
23. Monochromatic Moments
Plan a color theme like all white or all jewel tones. Monochrome looks create a visually cohesive and striking aesthetic.
24. Dance Floor Action
Capture the energy of guests letting loose on the dance floor. Motion blur or dramatic lighting adds a sense of movement and fun to these shots.
25. Include Family Heirlooms
Incorporate sentimental items, like a grandparent’s quilt or your mom’s wedding earrings, to add a layer of personal storytelling.
26. Festive Balloons
Oversized balloons, garlands, or ones with confetti inside bring playful, eye-catching elements to photos.
27. Sparklers at Night
Hand out sparklers for guests to hold during a nighttime send-off. The warm, glowing light adds magic and energy to photos.
28. Unexpected Angles
Shoot through plants, decor, or doorways to create frames within frames. This adds layers and depth to your photos.
29. Cultural Touches
Highlight traditions, cultural attire, or rituals unique to your family or community. These elements bring deeper meaning and connection to the photos.
30. End on a High Note
Plan a memorable finale, like fireworks, a confetti blast, or a dance circle. These moments create high-energy, joyful photos to close the event gallery beautifully.
Milli Stephania is a lifestyle and candid event and family photographer based in Stratford, CT. She passionately captures bold, vibrant moments for families across Fairfield County and New York City, turning life’s everyday stories into timeless, unforgettable memories.
