fbpx Skip to main content
Category

Musings

The Years Are Short, but the Memories Can Be Long

Let me tell you something I’ve really been feeling lately: this year went by in a blur. Like… a blink. One moment it was January, and suddenly we’re here, wondering how 11 months disappeared without asking for permission.

And maybe it’s not just me. Maybe you feel it too. Maybe you’re also wondering how your kids grew when you were just trying to keep up… or how your parents seem a little softer this year… or how long it’s been since all of you stood together in one frame, at the same time, in the same season of life.

It hits me every year-end: the days feel long, but the years? They’re unbelievably short.
And I don’t want us to wake up one day wishing we had kept more of these little moments.

When We Think We Have More Time Than We Do

I catch myself saying it all the time:
“I’ll book the photoshoot soon.”
“I’ll do it when things slow down.”
“I’ll plan it when everyone’s free.”

And if we’re honest… that “soon” never really comes, does it? Recently my mother-in-law was admitted to the hospital due to a brain injury and she’s been bedridden since. I tried looking for the last family photo we took together when everyone was around and I realized that photo was taken almost 2 years ago during Chinese New Year.

Life doesn’t slow down. Kids don’t stop growing while we breathe. Parents don’t pause their aging. And as we are trying so hard to balance everything, we don’t always realize a moment is becoming a memory until it’s already behind us.

I don’t say this to make you feel guilty. I say it because I’ve felt it too. We think we have more time than we do. We think our loved ones will always look, sound, and move the same way they do now. But time has this quiet way of changing things when we’re not paying attention.

And that’s why I’m writing this — for you and for me. Because I don’t want either of us to miss the version of our family we have right now.

Why Year-End Photos Hit Different

There’s something about this season that makes everything feel a little more real. We slow down. We’re a little more reflective. A little more sentimental. A little more aware of the people who make our lives feel like home.

Maybe it’s the holidays. Maybe it’s the slower nights. Maybe it’s just that invisible shift that happens when the year is about to end. That is why year end photos hit differently. They don’t just capture what your family looks like — they capture who you were this year. The energy. The connection. The inside jokes. The chaos. The quiet love you might take for granted because you’re living it daily.

And trust me on this: the future us is going to want that. Not the perfect outfits or the camera-ready hair, but the real expressions, the real hugs, the real “this is us right now” kind of moments.

The Things We Don’t Want to Forget

When people talk about what they miss, it’s never the big events. It’s always the tiny things we didn’t realise were disappearing:

The way our child still runs into our arms. The way our parents still call our name with that familiar softness. The way grandparents laugh — that specific laugh that you can recognize even from another room. The way our homes look before they change or before we leave them.

These little things? They become some of the biggest treasures later. And taking photos now is how we hold onto them long after time moves on.

You Don’t Need “Perfect.” You Just Need Now

If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably thought: “I need to lose a little weight before the photos.” “I want to wait until my kid’s hair grows.” or  “I want the house to look nicer.”

But here’s the truth between us: Our loved ones don’t care about any of that. They care that we’re in the photos with them. They care that we showed up. They care that we wanted to remember this chapter together. I still remember one of the Chinese New Year during the COVID-19 season, all of us were in frame together with our masks on. Even though half of our faces were covered, it serves as a reminder that we went through that season together and came out of it stronger.

Let’s Not Wait Another Year

I’m telling you as a friend: Let’s not let another year slip by without freezing the things we’ll miss most. Not the achievements or the milestones. But the people. The hugs. The laughter. The closeness. The version of your family that exists right now, in this irreplaceable moment in time.

The years are short — painfully short. But the memories we choose to keep? Those can stay with us for decades. For generations. For as long as someone opens an album and smiles. So before the year ends, let’s do something our future selves will thank us for. Let’s freeze the love we’re living today.

📸 Book your year-end family session.
For you, for us, for the memories we can’t afford to lose.

Couples in Love, To Have and To Hold

Love has no expiration date. Whether it’s the excitement of young couples embarking on their journey together or the deep, quiet understanding shared between those who have spent decades side by side, each love story is unique and worth capturing. The way they look at each other, the gentle touches, and the knowing smiles all speak to a love that has weathered the storms of life. Valentine’s Day is a reminder to cherish and celebrate love, and what better way to do so than by preserving it in photographs? Whether young or old, every couple has a love story worth telling. So this year, consider capturing your love through the lens—a timeless keepsake of the bond you share.

For more information on our photoshoots, reach out to us.

KLCC park as a shoot location: Tips you should know

If you think of Malaysia, you’ll have the iconic KLCC twin towers image popping up. Next to the towers is an urban oasis – the KLCC park that marries an iconic cityscape with a lush, relaxing vibe for your maternity, family or pre-wedding portraits. KLCC park offers a perfect blend of natural greenery and stunning architecture, making it an ideal setting for capturing your family’s most cherished moments. We have photographed many couples and families at this iconic location. If you are planning to do a photo session here, here are some tips for you to consider!

Do I need a permit to do a personal photo shoot at KLCC park?

For most casual family portrait sessions, you can breathe easy because a permit isn’t required. However, if you’re planning a pre-wedding shoot that might involve additional equipment and a more elaborate setup, you’ll need to secure a permit from the park authorities. The permit process generally involves contacting the park management office well in advance to get the necessary paperwork in order. You will need to fill out and sign the Letter of Undertaking (LOU), including the Short Term and Unexpected Work Form.  You’ll need to provide details like the date, time, names of crew, your clients and the purpose of the shoot. There is no fee involved for your personal shoot. On the day of the session, you will need to submit a Daily Access Permit Form to the KLCC Park Office before the shoot starts. If the guards start questioning you on the day of the shoot, you can just show them your permit, and you are good to go!

Is it suitable for me to bring large groups to the park?

When it comes to family portraits, smaller groups work best. Ideally, keep it to less than six people. A smaller group not only helps in managing the session smoothly but also ensures that everyone gets enough time and attention in front of the lens. With fewer members, it’s easier to coordinate outfits, poses, and candid moments that capture the essence of your family’s unique bond.

When is the best time for a photo shoot at KLCC park?

Timing is everything at KLCC Park. Early mornings are highly recommended for your session. During these hours, the sun casts a warm glow over the park and its surroundings, which not only brightens up your photos but also adds a magical quality to the iconic KLCC skyline. Alternatively, late evenings as the sun is setting, can be just as captivating, with the building lights illuminating the backdrop and creating a dramatic, sophisticated look. Just be mindful that these prime times can sometimes coincide with busy periods, especially on weekends.

When it comes to shooting outdoors in Malaysia, keep in mind that Kuala Lumpur’s weather can be unpredictable. You can monitor the weather forecast, but there is no guarantee that you’ll have beautiful sunny days all year round. Cloud cover can sometimes create a softer light, which might be perfect for a different mood, but for that bright, vibrant look, clear skies are key.

Do you have any tips about where to park?

KLCC Park is a popular destination, which means both vehicle and pedestrian traffic can be on the heavier side, whether on weekdays or weekends. If you plan to drive, you can aim to park at the outdoor carpark near the KL Convention Centre — it’s one of the more convenient spots for families. Alternatively, you might want to take the LRT instead, if you prefer not to drive or are a tourist thinking of doing a photo session there. This can save you the hassle of searching for parking and allow you to focus on your session.

What must I bring for a smooth photo session at the park?

When packing for your day at KLCC Park, comfort and convenience should be your top priorities. Start with comfortable shoes; you’ll likely be walking and standing for extended periods as you explore the park’s picturesque corners. A good pair of walking shoes will help you move around with ease, whether you’re chasing after little ones or setting up a perfect shot.

Don’t forget the practical items – mosquito repellent is a must, especially if you’re shooting in the early morning or late evening when bugs can be more active. Bring a bottle of water to keep everyone hydrated, and consider packing some light snacks to keep the energy up, particularly if you’re planning an extended session.

Is it convenient if I want to change outfits?

If you’re thinking about changing outfits during your session, our advice is: keep it simple. The park is connected to the mall and the convention centre, so if you need a quick change, you will have to walk into these facilities. It’s best to pack as little as possible to keep the process smooth and hassle-free. A small bag with your essentials is all you need.

Is the park wheelchair friendly?

Another plus of KLCC Park is its accessibility. The park is designed to be wheelchair friendly and is generally easy to navigate even if you use a cane. Wide pathways and well-maintained walkways make it a comfortable destination for all family members.

KLCC Park offers an unbeatable combination of natural beauty, iconic architecture, and family-friendly amenities, making it a top pick for your next portrait session. With a bit of planning, you’re all set for a day of capturing memories that you and your family will treasure forever. Contact us if you are interested in doing a photo session at KLCC Park! We would love to create memories for you here.

2024 Reflections

Each year, we strive to be better than yesterday—not just in the photos we take but in the connections we build. At Stories, excellence isn’t just about quality; it’s about creating an experience that feels warm, personal, and meaningful. However, developing personal connections can be challenging as our number of clients grow. In 2024, we photographed 274 personal events and portrait sessions, and the year hasn’t even ended yet. This is a milestone we are so proud of!

One way we nurture these connections is through community events. This year, we hosted the Family Rhythm Father’s Day event, participated in Nurts Day, and joined the Ibu Family and Private International School fair. These moments remind us that our work goes beyond photos; it’s about celebrating relationships and creating memories together.

Looking ahead to 2025, our hope is to deepen these relationships even further. We’re challenging ourselves to grow creatively, improve our service quality, and enhance efficiency—all while staying true to what makes Stories special.

That also means evolving with our clients’ needs. While we’ve been blessed to welcome so many families into our studio, we recognize the need to reconnect with the wedding industry. It’s a question we often ask ourselves: How do we remain relevant to our clients as trends change?

As new creatives join the Stories team each year, we constantly ask ourselves, “How do we maintain a consistent, exceptional brand experience while allowing space for fresh ideas to shine?” By encouraging open discussion amongst team members, we find ourselves in a space where we are never allowed to be comfortable for too long. We disrupt ourselves again and again, pushing ourselves towards a higher standard, year after year.   

The encouragement we’ve received keeps us inspired. With 137 five-star Google reviews and 72 Facebook recommendations, we’re reminded that the work we do matters to you—and that’s everything to us.

If you have been a client of ours, please send us a message to share your experiences with Stories. Your words not only keep us going but help us grow. Thank you for trusting us with your moments—here’s to creating even more moments together!

Why You Should Have a Pre-wedding Photoshoot

It’s a bit ironic that I’m writing this article because I didn’t have a pre-wedding shoot. With the benefit of hindsight, I do wish I had more information on the matter and had given the decision more thought. So if you are like me and on the fence of whether you wish to have a pre-wedding shoot, here are 5 reasons to help you decide.

1. Allows you to have more time on your wedding day 

You may wonder about the point of a pre-wedding shoot given that you will be having photographs at your wedding day happening in just a few months time. A wedding can be a very demanding and stressful affair. While we will definitely set aside some time to take some couple portraits for you on your actual wedding day, between the ceremony, family photo sessions and guest arrivals, you might not have as much time available to dedicate to your own photos. If you had pre-wedding photos taken, you could relax knowing that couple photos are the last thing on your mind during this already hectic day. Instead, you could spend the day fully immersed in celebrations, enjoying your meal and spending quality time with loved ones. 

2. Wedding day trial run 

You want your wedding photos to showcase you at your best while still having you be relaxed and natural.  Pre-wedding portraits will allow you some time to get used to being in front of the camera. You can practice your poses and reviewing your photos can also help you prepare better for the big day. You can even use your pre-wedding session to test hair and makeup. Knowing ahead of time what suits you best will allow you to feel more at ease on your wedding day. 

3. Get to know your photographer 

A pre-wedding session is also a great opportunity to get to know your wedding photographer better and get familiar with how they interact and collaborate with you. Additionally, it helps the photographer learn more about you two as a couple. For instance, are you both naturally tactile? Do you prefer more direction in posing? Having this opportunity to know one another and develop a bond can make you feel more comfortable around your photographer and confident that the photographer will be able to deliver you at your best. 

4. Variety of locations and styles 

On your wedding day, time constraints and logistics can limit photo opportunities. A pre-wedding photoshoot on the other hand, offers more flexibility and you have options to choose for diverse locations and as well as outfits. For example, you may like to take pictures at sunrise or sunset, this can’t be controlled (as much) on your wedding day but it can be planned for during a pre-wedding session. 

A pre-wedding photoshoot can also allow you to be as creative as you want. We have even photographed a pre-wedding session in a grocery store! Maybe you want a casual photoshoot or maybe you want to go glamorous with multiple wedding gowns in different styles. It’s a once in a lifetime occasion, so go all out! 

5. Tell Your Love Story 

A wedding (especially in Asia) can sometimes be a bit of an extended family event. A lot of the wedding planning revolves around creating a great experience for your guests. On the other hand, your pre-wedding session will be exclusively to celebrate you as a couple. You can use this photoshoot to tell your unique love story – perhaps engage in an activity you both enjoy or choose a location that is meaningful to the both of you. You can even take it one step further by adding on a pre-wedding video. A video will really capture all the emotions in the lead up to the big day and will be something you watch and reminisce on in the future. 

So there you have it! I hope this list has helped open your mind to the benefits of a pre-wedding session. A bonus from doing the pre-wedding shoot is of course the beautiful, professional pictures that you can use for your save-the-date announcement or to decorate the reception. 

If this article has convinced you to have your own pre-wedding shoot, get in touch with us! Do also check out our current promotion with That White Dress for gown rentals starting from as low as RM650.