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Jasmine Tai
In Misc

Escape the Heat, Capture the Moments

Malaysia is blessed with hills and majestic mountains, rivers and endless seas, mysterious caves and lush valleys. It’s like Mother Nature became an artist and Malaysia is her masterpiece. 

To all mamas (and papas!) out there, 

If you have been waiting for a sign to get your family photos updated, this is your sign: now is the perfect time to do it. Because there is no perfect time to do something. Instead of planning for a normal photoshoot, why not make it an experience you will never forget?

Let me introduce you to two of my favourite gems in Malaysia for outdoor family photo sessions: Janda Baik and Bukit Tinggi. These lush hilltop escapes are tucked just a short drive from Kuala Lumpur and they give you the best of both worlds: cooling weather and picturesque backdrops.

Janda Baik: Where Nature Hugs You Back

Janda Baik is one of those places that feels like a hug the moment you arrive. With its gentle streams, towering trees, and whispering cool breeze, it’s hard not to feel instantly relaxed, which is exactly what you want during a family shoot. Especially with young kids or older parents, a stress-free photo session is what they need. 

The vibe here is peaceful, rustic, and incredibly photogenic. Think barefoot kids running on soft grass, cozy moments on a picnic mat, or mum and dad stealing a quiet hug under the trees while the kiddos explore nearby. The cooler weather here means no one’s melting under the sun because less sweat = less fuss = better photos! 

Pro tip: Early morning or golden hour (late afternoon) will give you that dreamy, golden glow that makes your family look like you’re in a movie. Plus, it can get extra chilly especially if it rains the night before so you can whip out those adorable suits and ties for your boys and princess dresses for your girls. 

You can consider these places for a staycation, so that you have ample space to prepare your family before the session, and also to rest up after that.

Bukit Tinggi: A Slice of Europe Without Leaving Malaysia

If you’re looking for something a little more whimsical, Bukit Tinggi is your go-to. Home to the charming French-themed village of Colmar Tropicale, this place feels like you’ve stepped into a fairy tale. From cobblestone walkways and colourful European-style buildings to blooming gardens and forest trails, this place has the perfect backdrop if you want something a little more styled, without overdoing it. 

Plus, the 800 meters elevation means the weather stays cool and fresh, so your kids won’t overheat in their cute outfits, and you won’t need to worry about touching up your hair and make-up every 15 minutes. Add in a quick stop by the Japanese Garden or the rabbit farm, and you’ve got yourself a half-day outing with your family that feels like a mini holiday and a memory-making session.

Family photo idea: Coordinate outfits in soft earth tones or pastels to complement the picturesque buildings and nature. We’ve been there! And trust us, the coordinated color schemes make the photos extra beautiful! 

Why Outdoors, You Ask? 

Let’s be honest: indoor photoshoots are great, but there is something magical about the natural sunlight and being surrounded by nature. Kids get to be themselves, run freely, and you end up capturing real moments. The laughter, the silliness, the quiet cuddles, these aren’t forced poses, they’re memories in motion.

Outdoor shoots also mean fewer restrictions. You’re not boxed in a studio forcing your kids to “look at the camera and smile!” Here, the scenery changes as you move along the open fields, shady forests, hidden bridges  and riverside rocks. Every frame is unique, just like how every family is unique.

And because Janda Baik and Bukit Tinggi are both relatively close to the city (about 45 minutes to 1 hour from Kuala Lumpur), you don’t need to block off a whole week just to travel there. A short weekend getaway is sufficient for some fun in nature, and you’re home in time to rest up for the new week ahead. 

Make It a Weekend Getaway

Here’s the best part of it all: your family photoshoot does not need to feel like a formal event. Pack a light picnic with their favorite snacks. Bring the kids’ favorite toys. Let them play. Bring a musical instrument like a guitar for a sing-along. Let our photographer tag along for the ride and document your family as you are. You’ll be amazed at how the most effortless moments turn into the most treasured photos. 

And for parents who often are not in the photos (we know, because you are always the one behind the camera), this is your time to shine. Dress up a little, let your hair down and allow someone else to capture you being present with your family. You will not regret this decision. 

Final Thoughts (from someone who has been to a lot of photoshoots)

Family photos aren’t just about perfectly posed pictures. They are about remembering what life feels like in this season, with your kids this age, with your partner by your side, with all the chaos and joy that makes your family uniquely yours. 

So take the leap. Choose a date. Pack a few outfits. And head for the hills.

Besides getting a set of beautiful photos, you’ll make a beautiful day out of it too. 

Contact us to plan for a family photoshoot! 

Bin Bin Tan
In At Home, Family + Children Portraits, Maternity, Portraits

Introducing Family Films

At Stories, we work to create timeless images that will help you immortalize the best times of your life.  As the world evolves in the way we tell stories through visuals, we have decided to evolve with it. For this reason, we have expanded our services to offer videography services in addition to family photography packages.

Introducing Family Films, where you can now tell capture your family’s important moments with a video session instead of just a traditional photoshoot.

Moments Package

The Moments Package is a behind-the-scenes coverage as an add on to a family portrait session. This is for clients who have already booked a family photoshoot and would now also like a video. The videos filmed in this package would revolve mostly around the scenes being setup for the photoshoot, which we will then edit with music to tell a little story. Other than showing up, there isn’t any additional work required from the family members.

For the end result, you will receive a 1 to 2 minute edited video of your family in addition to the photos from the photoshoot booked. 

Unscripted Package

The Unscripted Package is a standalone video production that can be shot as a mini documentary of your family, whether it’s to showcase your family’s history, a day in the life or to celebrate a family member. As these videos will be more detailed, audio interviews may be used to help tell the story.

Therefore, this package requires more thought and planning. Some things you may consider before deciding to proceed are:

(i)         What narrative do you wish to convey?

(ii)        Who is going to participate in the shoot?

(iii)      Are interviews planned? What are the questions you would like to be asked? What would you like to say in reply?

(iv)       What type of scenes would you like to film your family doing?

Under this package, you will receive a 2 to 4 minute edited video. As this package does not include photos, you may like to add on a photoshoot if you would like to receive some photos as well.

The next time you decide to book a professional family photoshoot, why not consider a video as well?

Contact us to find out more!

Jasmine Tai
In Outdoor Weddings, , Weddings

Clement and Vanessa’s Pre-Wedding

A pre-wedding photoshoot isn’t just about ticking off a wedding checklist. It’s about capturing a season of love. A moment where you get to dress up, celebrate your journey, and preserve the emotions that sometimes get lost in the busyness of everyday life. And that doesn’t have to happen before the wedding. Sometimes, the most meaningful photos come after the vows have been said, when the love has deepened and real life has settled in.

Just like Clement and Vanessa that still chose to have a pre-wedding photoshoot even after being married and having a beautiful daughter together. These photos aren’t about pretending that they just got engaged. They’re about honoring how far they’ve come. About pausing to remember the butterflies, the laughter, the promises—and capturing them again, this time with even more depth and meaning behind those smiles.

If you ever wondered if it’s “too late”, we are here to tell you that it’s never too late to celebrate ourselves—not just as parents or spouses, but as two people still deeply in love. Contact us to find out more about our pre-wedding photoshoot packages.

Credits:
Photographer: Leong Wai
Location: Taman Rimba Kiara

Jasmine Tai
In Chinese Weddings, Church Weddings, Outdoor Weddings, Parties & Events, Weddings

Things to Take Note of When Choosing Your Wedding Gown

So you’ve said yes (to your favorite person), and next, it’s time to say yes to the dress. Exciting? Yes. Overwhelming? Also yes. But don’t worry, here are some things to take note of when choosing your wedding gown, especially when your wedding is taking place in a hot and humid climate like Malaysia. 

Before you fall head over heels for the sparkliest, puffiest, most princessy gown available on the rack (no judgment—we all have that moment), let’s talk through a few real-life things that brides often forget to consider until it’s too late. Because the truth is: a stunning gown is great… but a comfortable and venue-appropriate stunning gown? That’s even better.

1. Outdoor Wedding? Consider This Before You Say Yes to the Train

Ahh, outdoor weddings with beachy breezes, garden vibes, golden hour magic and wind in your hair. But here’s the thing nobody tells you: a long train + grass or sand = drama. And not the good kind. 

If your wedding is outdoors, especially in a natural setting (beach, garden, forest), think twice about long trailing gowns. They look beautiful in photos, yes, but they also pick up dirt like a mop and get stepped on… a lot. You’ll spend more time adjusting the train than enjoying your day.

Tip: If you love the look of a train, go for a removable, detachable train that gives you the princess-look during the ceremony but the ability to freely walk and dance after that.

2. Try Sitting Down (Seriously!)

It might sound obvious, but so many brides forget to actually sit in their gown during fittings. And trust us, this matters more than you think.

That dreamy ballgown or super fitted mermaid dress might look stunning when you’re standing, but what happens when you’re sitting at your reception for speeches, dinner, or during the ceremony? If the bodice digs into your ribs or the skirt completely takes over your chair (or the person’s chair next to you), it’s going to get uncomfortable real fast.

Tip: During your fitting, try sitting, squatting slightly, and even try a few dance moves. You will thank us later when you are feeling comfy all night long.

3. Itchy, Hot & Heavy? No Thanks

Some gowns are made for aesthetics, not comfort. If you’re eyeing on a gown with heavy embellishments or super stiff material, ask yourself:
 “Can I wear this for 8+ hours without melting or scratching my skin off?”

Especially for outdoor weddings in warmer climates or during the summer season, breathable fabric is key. Avoid gowns with tons of layers unless you want to feel like you are baking inside a tiered cake. You can have both elegance and comfort, it just takes a bit of trying on. 

4. Indoor Wedding? Watch the Stairs (and the Chairs)

If you are getting married in a ballroom, hotel, or a church with grand staircases, think about how you can move around easily. Puffy gowns may look magical… until you need to climb stairs, walk through narrow aisles, or sit down for dinner. Same tip for your footwear, do opt for something that is easier to walk and climb those stairs in. 

Test this in your fittings—can you walk gracefully? Will your train be a hazard on polished floors? 

Bonus tip: If kneeling is required (e.g., in a Catholic ceremony), make sure your dress allows movement and that it’s appropriate for the setting (i.e., nothing too low-cut or sheer for a religious venue).

5. Venue Vibes Matter

The dress should match the vibe of your wedding venue. If your wedding’s in a grand cathedral, go for something timeless and classic. If you’re having a laid-back celebration in a cozy garden or intimate café, you might want something light, flowy, and less structured.

You don’t have to go full theme, but your gown should feel like it belongs in the space where you are saying “I do.”

6. You Will Move A Lot So Dress for It

From hugging 100 people, dancing, posing for photos, to bathroom breaks (yes, we said it), you will move. A lot. So try moving in the gown before committing. Do a little spin. Try sitting. Imagine lifting your arms for a group hug.

If the gown is restrictive now, trust me, it’ll drive you nuts halfway through the day. Comfort is really the key here.

At the end of the day, your gown should make you feel beautiful, comfortable, and like your best self. Not a version of what you think a bride looks like on your Pinterest board—but you, feeling your very best.

So when you are at your fitting, bring your heels, walk around. Sit. Think about the place you are getting married, what the weather’s like, and how you want to feel in those little, in-between moments.

Because your gown? It’s not just for the aisle. It’s for the hugs, the photos, the laughs, the teary smiles and the late-night dancing. Make sure it’s one you can live in, not just look pretty in.

Jasmine Tai
In Misc

Photo Craft Ideas to Do Together: Creating Memories with Your Family

Capturing beautiful moments in photos is great, but do you know what’s even better? Using them to create something special! Whether it’s with your spouse, parents, siblings, kids, or even grandparents, getting creative with photo prints is such a heartwarming way to bond. Do you wanna know what’s the best part? You don’t need to be a pro at crafting—just a little creativity and lots of love! Here are some interesting and fun ways to turn your cherished photos into beautiful momentos.

1. Dream Board: Manifesting Your Best Life Together 

We all have dreams, and sometimes, we just need a little push to bring them to life. A dream board (or vision board) is the perfect way to visualize the goals you have set while surrounding yourself with the people who matter most. Imagine sitting down with your kids, or spouse, flipping through old photos, and choosing images that inspire your future. Maybe it’s a travel photo reminding you to plan that long-overdue family vacation or a picture of a happy moment that motivates you to create more of those experiences.

How to do it:

  • Gather old and new photos that make you feel joyful and motivated.
  • Cut out words, quotes, or images from magazines that align with your dreams.
  • Arrange them on a board, adding stickers, washi tape, or little doodles to personalize it.
  • Hang it somewhere visible to keep those dreams alive!

This activity is great to do as a family as you have meaningful conversations around past achievements and future goals. Try doing this once a year and you can look back on how far you and your family have come. 

2. Journaling: Capturing Moments Beyond the Picture 

Photos tell a story, but words can bring them to life in an entirely new way. Imagine sitting down with your child or partner, flipping through the journal, and writing about what each moment meant.

How to do it:

  • Start with a simple journal (or an Accordion fold) and photo prints.
  • Write down memories—what was happening in the photo, where was the location, how you felt, any moments surrounding it. I like writing the dates for each photo so that I can easily look back and go “Oh, I remember that day!” 
  • Add decorative touches like dried flowers, stickers, or colored pens to make it uniquely yours.

This is such a great way to bond across generations. Grandparents can tell stories from their previous generation, while you and your children can document your own journey. It’s also a beautiful way to pass down family history and wisdom through words and images. Younger children who may not remember the moment can look back and experience it once again through the flipping of the journal. 

3. Photo Frame Scrapbooking: A Personalized Touch to Your Decor 

Scrapbooking is always a fun activity, but why not take it up a notch and make a personalized framed art? This is perfect for making meaningful gifts to your extended family by adding a sentimental decor to their homes.

How to do it:

  • Get a plain picture frame (wood, acrylic, or even a shadow box works!).
  • Print out photos that hold special memories—perhaps one with your kids when they lost their first tooth, or a nostalgic picture with your parents from years ago.
  • Decorate the frame using small embellishments like pressed flowers, beads, or meaningful quotes.
  • If you are using a shadow box, you can add little trinkets that remind you of the moment (a dried flower from a trip, a train ticket, etc.).

Every time you look at it, you’ll be reminded of those good times. Plus, creating it together makes it priceless!

4. Driftwood Photo Display: A Rustic & Sentimental Touch

Want a unique way to display your photos? A driftwood photo display is not only beautiful but also a fun, interesting craft to do with your family. It brings a warm, rustic vibe to your space while showcasing your favorite memories in the form of snapshots.

How to do it:

  • Find a nice piece of driftwood or a sturdy branch (you can even buy one if needed!).
  • Print out your favorite photos in different sizes for a creative touch.
  • Use twine, string, or mini clothespins to attach the photos to the wood.
  • Decorate with fairy lights, dried flowers, or shells for an extra touch.
  • Hang it in your living room, hallway, or anywhere it can be admired.

This is such a fun way to display a collection of family moments, travel memories, or even a timeline of your kids growing up! Feel free to add or remove any photos as time goes by.

Why These Crafts Matter

The beauty of these activities isn’t just in the final outcome—it’s in the time spent together, the laughter shared, and the stories told along the way. Whether you’re creating a dream board with your kids, journaling with your parents, or crafting a driftwood display with your siblings, these moments become core memories too.

So, take those photos, gather the special people in your life, and start crafting. Because while photos capture memories, what you do with them keeps those moments alive.

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