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.
Travel Sessions beyond NY and CT (inquire via the contact form)
Kid-Friendly Approach: As a mom of two, I specialize in capturing genuine, joyful, and candid family moments, embracing the chaos and charm of children.
Why Choose Me:
Bold, vibrant, and true-to-life photography style
Relaxed, fun, and stress-free sessions
A dedication to turning your memories into unforgettable art
FAQs:
Still accepting clients in NYC? Yes!
Open to traveling outside NY and CT? Yes!
Kid-friendly? Absolutely!
Ready to book? Reach out today to schedule your session in CT or NY, and let’s create something unforgettable. Contact Me Now
If you’ve been following along with Milli Stephania Photo, you already know I’m all about capturing life’s beautiful, messy, and magical moments. Well, buckle up, I have so much to share with you! Life has been full of exciting changes lately—a new baby has joined the team, we’ve moved to beautiful Connecticut, and we just bought a new home! It’s been a whirlwind, but through it all, I’m beyond excited to announce that I’m now offering my photography services in both New York and Connecticut. If we’ve worked together before, I want to thank you for your continued support. And if we haven’t yet, I would love the chance to meet you and help capture your special moments! Whether you’re in New York or Connecticut, I’m thrilled to be able to offer more flexibility in scheduling and location to make it easier for you. And before my NYC clients start panicking, don’t worry—I’m still here for you, too. Let’s dive into the details!
Why the Move? New Beginnings in Connecticut
Life has been a whirlwind lately. As a new mom of two—yes, two! (cue the coffee and chaos)—my family and I recently made the leap to Stratford, Connecticut. New home, new vibes, and a fresh opportunity to expand my business to a whole new area. Fairfield County, with its gorgeous parks, coastal charm, and bustling communities, feels like the perfect place to bring my candid, documentary-style photography to even more amazing families and events.
But here’s the kicker: I’m not leaving my NYC roots behind. As your go-to NY and CT portrait and event documentary photographer, I’m keeping one foot firmly planted in the New York Metro Area. So, whether you’re in Brooklyn or Bridgeport, I’ve got you covered.
What Services Do I Offer?
My heart is in candid lifestyle photography, capturing those real, unscripted moments that tell your family’s unique story. But I also offer a variety of services to celebrate all of life’s milestones. all you have to do is bring the moments, and I’ll bring the magic. Here’s a quick snapshot of what I’m all about:
Family Photography: From giggly toddlers to sassy teens, I’ll document your crew’s unique dynamic.
Event Photography: Baby showers, birthday parties, baptisms, and sweet sixteens—let’s make those memories unforgettable.
Travel Sessions: Dreaming of a shoot beyond NY and CT? Let’s chat—I’m always up for an adventure.
Kid-Friendly? Oh, Absolutely.
As a mom of two wild and wonderful kiddos, I get it. I understand the chaos, the tantrums, and the moments of pure joy that make it all worth it. That’s why I pride myself on being super kid-friendly. You don’t have to stress about getting your little ones to “sit still” for a picture—I’m here to capture the real stuff: the giggles, the hugs, and even the occasional cookie-bribe negotiations.
A Little Story: My First Fairfield Session
Let me set the scene: a sunny afternoon at a Fairfield County park, with a family of four which included the silliest fresh new double digit kid. He’s too cool to be doing cute poses… embrace it! Let him go absolute ham, maybe he can show us the newest Tik Tok dance! The parents? Beaming. As we wandered through the trails, snapping candid moments, I realized just how special it is to capture the essence of a family in a new setting and embracing . This is why I do what I do.
Why Choose Milli Stephania Photo?
Here’s the deal: When you book with me, you’re not just getting a photographer. You’re getting a memory hoarder who sees the beauty in the everyday. I’ll make sure you feel at ease, have a laugh, and maybe even forget there’s a camera involved. My style is bold, vibrant, and true to color because I believe life’s moments deserve to be remembered just as they are.
FAQs: Let’s Clear Things Up
Are you still taking clients in NYC? Absolutely! NYC clients, you’re my OGs, and I’m not going anywhere.
Are you open to traveling outside of NY and CT? Yes! If you’ve got a dream location in mind, let’s make it happen. Just fill out my contact form, and we’ll chat.
Are you kid-friendly? One hundred percent. I specialize in documenting families and their journeys as candidly as possible—snacks, tantrums, and all.
Let’s Capture Your Moments
I’m so grateful for this new chapter and all the possibilities ahead. I can’t wait to see what the future holds and, most importantly, to continue capturing the memories that matter most to you. Whether you’re a long-time client or someone new, I’m here to help you celebrate life’s big (and little) moments. Whether you’re in Connecticut or New York, I’m ready to turn your memories into art. Reach out today to book your session, and let’s create something unforgettable. I’m so grateful for this new chapter and all the possibilities ahead. I can’t wait to see what the future holds and, most importantly, to continue capturing the memories that matter most to you. Whether you’re a long-time client or someone new, I’m here to help you celebrate life’s big (and little) moments.
Contact Me Now to get started—Fairfield County, I’m looking at you!
