This week, John Steiner is looking forward to celebrating his birthday, so I’m happy to join the LAPC party. In some families and in some cultures, birthdays are a reason for huge celebrations. So, I picked up this post published first back in 2013.
There is a certain habit in Cuba of celebrating a girl’s 15th birthday.
The girl gets special clothing, is dressed up, and gets perfect makeup. Then they go to a photographer to take beautiful photographs.
According to our guide, some girls are dressed like a bride for these sessions, others wear cocktail dresses and I also noticed photographs showing a girl dressed like a female version of an old-fashioned, Spanish caballero. The photographs are usually taken in a park or in the streets and not in a studio.
Two weeks later, the parents and the girl have a party with all of her friends, and an album, containing the photos, which is a real eyecatcher for that party. Also, the parents put framed photos from that session on their walls.
I like that idea. (OK, maybe, because I’m a photographer).
We met this young lady in the old town of Havana. Her mother was with her and took care of her hairstyle and her makeup, while the photographer directed his assistant to adjust the reflector.
So, we can congratulate her on her 15th birthday.
Are there any similar habits, where you live or coming from?
While waiting for my next post you can have a look at the previous posts and maybe drop me a note in the comments section below.
In the meantime, the girl is a young woman. As I said, I took these photos back in 2013. So, she’s already 24. How much must have changed for her in her life.
As I’m always interested in getting to know habits from other countries, regions, or cultures, drop me a note in the comments and tell me, how do you celebrate birthdays. I’m interested in your personal celebration as well as in general habits and traditions.
Take care!
MyBlog - solaner 
I enjoyed your take on the birthday challenge. I’ve heard of the 15th birthday celebration for young women. It is found in Latin America and is called Quinceañera.Thanks for sharing your images of this young woman’s special day.
Thanks, John, also for the additional details. 😊
Hi, Andre. Your images of the girl are beautiful. I love the color of her dress. It’s a fascinating custom for young Hispanic girls.
Yes, it was a great find and fantastic to get the explanation at once, too. Thanks, Patti 😊