This month I had the opportunity to photograph a Doljanchi, or Dol for short where the family would be wearing their hanbok, the traditional clothing of Korea. I was so excited to be able to capture it!

According to Best of Korea, Doljanchi 돌잔치 is the first birthday celebration for a Korean child. 

Dol 돌 means birthday and janchi 잔치 means banquet or feast. For the doljanchi, parents celebrate by having a party with a bunch of traditional foods & rituals. The table or dolsang is one of the most important parts; decorated with a display of significant items that all have their own meaning, but overall wishing the best life for the child.

One of the traditional rituals is called doljabi. This was probably my favorite part. The parents lay out a bunch of different symbolic items like coins, threads, stethoscope, paintbrush, etc. in front of them. The baby then gets to choose one & whatever they pick shows what they will be in the future such as a scholar, wealthy, lawyer, have a long life, etc.

Little Felix was a little bit shy when it came to picking something. It could have been because he just woke up from a nap or because a stranger had a camera pointed at him (that would be me lol). His big brother Milo was so helpful in showing him everything and letting him know it was ok to touch them.

Let’s all say a big Happy Birthday to Felix!

Thank you so much Matt & Susan for letting me capture such a meaningful tradition!

I am honored that I was able to be a part of it!

Rentals by: Oh Happy Day Event

Desserts by: Wild & Sweet Bakes

If you or anyone you know needs photos for anything like this, let me know! The best way to start that process is to fill out the contact form & I will get back to you as soon as I can! I can’t wait to hear from you!

With all the love,

-Jenn

Jefferson & Salem, Oregon Photographer