Melbourne Zhua Zhou (抓周) Photography
Zhua Zhou (抓周) is a traditional Chinese ceremony where a one-year-old baby is presented with a variety of objects symbolizing different professions, and the object the baby chooses is believed to predict their future. (Read the article below the photo gallery for more details about this tradition.)
We usually start with family and sibling photos, then place the objects in a semicircle in front of your baby to let your baby explore, and document what he/she chooses.
The session fee is $150. This does NOT include any prints or digital files. However, it does include a $100 book-online-bonus-credit for you to put towards albums, wall arts, or a digital package if you make the booking via the online booking calendar below. Please CLICK HERE to see the Product Price Guide.
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What Is Zhua Zhou (抓周) ?
Zhua Zhou (抓周) is a traditional Chinese ceremony that is celebrated on a child's first birthday. It's a significant event that's steeped in symbolism and meaning, and it's a way to celebrate the child's future and their potential. The ceremony is also known as "grabbing the baby's fortune," and it involves presenting the child with a range of different items and seeing which one they choose.
At my photography studio, we usually set up a red backdrop or a cream backdrop for Zhua Zhou. Then we dress the child in a traditional themed onesie (I can provide clothing for your baby, or you're welcome to bring your own).
We'll place a range of different items in a semi-circle then it your child at its centre. Each item has its own meaning. Some common items that are used in a Zhua Zhou ceremony include a book (for knowledge), a brush (for calligraphy or painting), a calculator (for math), and a hulu gourd (for medicine). The child is then encouraged to choose one of the items, and the item that they choose is said to represent their future profession or interests.
In addition to the items on the table, families are weleocm to bring other elements to the ceremony. For example, red eggs are often given to guests as a symbol of good luck, and a red string may be tied around the child's wrist to protect them from evil spirits. There may also be a ceremony to thank the gods for the child's good health and fortune.
The Zhua Zhou ceremony has been around for centuries and has been passed down through generations. It's a way for parents to connect with their own cultural roots and to pass them down to their children. Having it captured at my photography studio will ensure that you will have stunning photos to proudly display in your home for years to come.