Casual Portraits

Grace Tan In At Home, Beautiful Everyday, Casual Portraits, Family + Children Portraits, Maternity, Portraits, Studio

What You Wear Matters More Than You Think

Let’s be honest. The first question before any shoot is always, “What should we wear?” Usually followed by a few outfit changes, a bit of overthinking, and at least one “does this match?” moment. And fair enough, it’s not always the easiest question to answer.

But maybe the better question is, “What tends to work well on camera?”

Because while a good outfit can elevate a photo, the right choices can really help everything feel a little more natural and put together, without taking attention away from you.

Let’s talk colours

Colours don’t just sit there looking nice. They’re doing quite a bit behind the scenes. They reflect light, affect skin tones, and influence how a photo feels overall.

Very bright colours can sometimes reflect onto the skin more than expected.
Very dark tones can feel a little heavier in photos.
And when there are too many different colours in one frame, it can start to feel a little busy. And not always in a good way.

This is why softer tones, neutrals, and earthy palettes tend to work so well. They keep things balanced and let the focus stay on people. Also, they are generally easier to match as a group, which helps when everyone is trying to agree on what to wear at the same time… which is usually where things get a little chaotic.

Things that tend to work better

Over time, we have noticed a few things that tend to photograph more smoothly:

Coordinated over matching
Outfits that complement each other often feel more natural than everyone wearing the exact same thing. A little variation actually makes the whole photo feel more alive and a lot less stressful to put together.
Simpler patterns
Smaller prints or textures tend to photograph more cleanly and keep the attention where it should be. Nothing too loud, nothing too distracting, just enough.
Softer colour tones
Muted or toned-down colours are usually more flattering on camera and easier to work with. They also tend to age better when you look back at the photos later.
Comfort matters
Outfits that feel easy to move in help you stay relaxed and present during the shoot. If you feel good, it shows. If you don’t, that usually shows pretty quickly too.
Staying true to your style
Photos always feel more natural when you look like yourself, just a little more put together. No need to suddenly become someone else for the day. You don’t need a whole new personality just for photos.

Where everything starts to click

So instead of overthinking every detail, here’s a simpler way to look at it. Think of your outfit as part of the overall frame, not the main focus.

Soft, balanced colours.
Simple textures.
Pieces that move easily with you.

And most importantly, something you feel comfortable and confident in. That usually does more for a photo than anything else.

If there’s one thing to take away

Photos are not really about the outfit. But the right outfit can help everything come together a little more naturally. More than anything, it’s about how you feel in what you’re wearing. When you’re comfortable, when you feel like yourself, it shows in ways you don’t have to think about.

So keep it simple, comfortable, and true to you. Because the best photos are the ones where you feel like yourself in them.

Oh, and this year’s colour of the year

Oh, and speaking of colours, Pantone’s Colour of the Year for 2026 is Cloud Dancer. Which, yes, is a very nice way of saying a really good shade of white. It’s a soft, airy white that leans slightly warm. Calm, minimal, and very easy to work with. The kind of colour that feels clean and effortless. It also photographs really well. It doesn’t compete for attention and pairs nicely with almost everything. It’s one of those colours that just works without needing too much effort.

You don’t have to go all in, but it works nicely as a base or layered with softer tones. And if nothing else, it’s a very safe option when no one can decide what to wear. What do you think, something you would wear for a shoot, or more of a background kind of colour? If you would like to read more about colours, check out this other blog post we wrote.

And if you are ever unsure what to wear, we are always happy to guide you through styling for your session.

Jasmine Tai In At Home, Casual Portraits, Family + Children Portraits, Portraits, Studio

Why You Should Include Your Pet in Your Family Portraits

When you think of family portraits, you probably imagine parents, children, maybe grandparents, and siblings all smiling together. But if you have a furry (or feathered!) companion at home, you know that “family” doesn’t feel paw-fectly complete without them. Pets may not speak our language, but they fill our days with love, laughter, and comfort. They’re the ones who curl up on your lap after a long day, greet you excitedly at the door wagging their tails, or happily paw their way into family activities.

That’s why at the Stories studio, we believe pets belong in family portraits just as much as anyone else. Whether it’s your playful golden retriever, a grumpy tabby cat, or even a quirky rabbit, your pets are family and they deserve to be remembered alongside you in your family photographs.

In this article, we will talk about why including your pets in your portraits is so meaningful, the challenges you might face, and how we make it easy (and fun!) for everyone involved.

Pets Are Fur-ever Family

The biggest reason is simple: pets are part of your fur-mily story. They’ve walked with you through milestones, comforted you during ruff days, and celebrated with you during joyful ones. They’re woven into the everyday rhythm of your household, so why leave them out of something as paw-sonal as a family portrait?

Imagine this with us: years from now, when you look back at your photos, you won’t just want to remember the people you love. You will want to see the beloved dog who always insisted on sitting in the middle of the couch or the cat who photobombed every hug with a “meow-ment” of their own. Portraits are about capturing love and connection, and pets embody that in their own purr-fect way.

The Joy They Bring to Photos

Including pets often brings out the most genuine smiles from everyone. Children light up when their dog is sitting beside them. Couples relax when their cat is curled up on their lap. Pets add an element of playfulness and paw-sitive energy that makes photos feel alive, authentic, and full of personality.

Sometimes, the funniest or sweetest moments happen because of them! A dog tilting its head at the camera, a cat swatting at a ribbon, or even a slightly chaotic group hug where everyone bursts into laughter. These are the fur-tastic memories you will treasure most: the ones that show not just how you looked, but how you felt together as a family.

Making Pets Comfortable

We also know that pets can sometimes be shy, restless, or a little unpredictable, especially in a new environment like a photography studio. That’s why we offer flexibility. If your pet is happy to join us in the studio, we welcome them with open arms (and plenty of treats!). But if your pet is more comfortable at home, we will gladly come to you.

Photographing pets in their own space often makes for the most natural and relaxed portraits. They’re free to be themselves, whether that means lounging in their favorite spot by the window or playing in the backyard. It also makes it easier for you as a family, you won’t need to worry about the travel stress, and your pet gets to stay in their comfort zone.

Overcoming the “What Ifs”

We often hear families ask, “What if my dog doesn’t sit still?” or “What if my cat just hides?” The good news is: you don’t need a paw-fectly posed pet for beautiful photos. In fact, some of the best purr-traits come from those unscripted meow-ments. A wagging tail, a curious glance, or even a mischievous escape attempt can turn into the most heartwarming memories.

As professional photographers, we know how to work with animals. We’re patient, we plan for breaks, and we create a calm environment. We also adapt to each pet’s purr-sonality — some love attention, while others prefer a quiet corner. Either way, our goal is to capture the genuine bond between your family and your furry friend, not to force perfection.

A Fur-ever Tribute

Pets are with us for such a precious, though often too short, part of our lives. Including them in your fur-mily portraits ensures they will always have a place in your memories. Years down the road, those photos will become priceless reminders of the love they brought and the paw prints they left on your hearts.

You can see your children, grown up, looking back at the portraits and smiling at the sight of their childhood dog. Or you flipping through an album and seeing your cat snuggled in your arms. These images will remind you that your pet was truly part of the family story because they definitely were.

Let’s Create Paw-some Memories Together

At our studio, we welcome pets with the same love and care we show to every family member. Whether you want to bring them along to our space or prefer us to come to your home, we’ll make sure everyone (two-legged and four-legged) feels comfortable and celebrated.

Your family portraits should reflect the whole picture of your life together, and that includes your pets. They’re not “just animals.” They’re your companions, your comforters, your playmates, and your family.

So the next time you’re planning a family photoshoot, don’t leave them behind. Bring them into the frame and let us help you capture the beautiful, messy, love-filled story that includes every member of your family.

Ready to plan your family photoshoot with your furry friend?

Reach out to us! We would love to meet you (and your pet!) and create portraits that celebrate the family you’ve built, paw prints and all.

Jasmine Tai In Casual Portraits, Family + Children Portraits

Turning Your Malaysia Holiday into Forever Memories

You are probably looking forward to the food, the culture, the lush rainforests, the beautiful and the iconic landmarks when you are planning a trip to Malaysia with your family. But here’s something you might not have considered — how about a family photoshoot while you are here? Whether you are traveling from overseas or coming from another part of the country, taking the time for a professional photoshoot can transform your family trip into a set of memories you will treasure forever.

Here’s why a family photoshoot in Malaysia is such a great idea and check out a few stunning locations you might want to consider.

Capture the Magic of Your Vacation Together

Vacations are rare and precious, especially when the whole family comes together amidst busy schedules. Everyone’s relaxed and expectant, you’re trying new things, and you’re making unforgettable memories together. But too often, the only photos you have are selfies, group shots taken by a stranger, or blurry ones where someone’s always blinking. A professional family photographer can help you freeze those beautiful, candid moments with everyone in the frame – laughing, walking, or simply being yourselves all against the backdrop of Malaysia’s most breathtaking views.

Here’s what Dorian Campbell has to say about her experience with us:

“I used Stories for a family photoshoot and was so impressed with their professionalism! The photographer and his vision for our family was spot on! He brought creativity and excitement to the shoot. Our pictures turned out beautiful due to his ability to capture all moments in the perfect setting and light. His wonderful personality enhanced the entire shoot. I would recommend this company to all that’s looking for a trusting photographer to capture their family photos.”

Malaysia’s Scenery Makes the Perfect Backdrop

Malaysia is incredibly photogenic, with a mix of modern and natural landscapes that are perfect for different vibes and moods. Whether you prefer a sleek urban look or something more serene and nature-filled, there’s something for everyone.

KLCC (Kuala Lumpur City Centre): The iconic Petronas Twin Towers and the surrounding park area offer a modern, stylish backdrop that’s instantly recognizable. Great for families who love city adventures — imagine photos of your kids playing by the fountains, or the whole family framed by the towers at sunset.
Janda Baik: If you’re craving peace, greenery, and cool mountain air, Janda Baik is a dream come true. Nestled just 40 minutes from the city, this charming village offers rivers, waterfalls, and lush forest views that are perfect for rustic, nature-loving families. Think barefoot on the grass, kids picking flowers, and everyone wrapped in cozy sweaters.
Langkawi Island: If your family loves the sea, Langkawi is a breathtaking location to capture sandy feet, ocean breezes, and golden sunsets. With its turquoise waters, dramatic cliffs, and peaceful beaches, it’s perfect for relaxed, tropical family portraits. Imagine your little ones running along the shore or everyone cuddled up against a glowing horizon — pure postcard moments.

Make the Most of Your Time Together

With everyone busy in their day-to-day lives, it’s not often the whole family gets to spend this much time together. A vacation photoshoot is a great way to hit pause, be present, and soak in the moment. Plus, it gives you an hour or two of focused family time — away from devices and distractions — where the only task is to laugh, hug, and be yourselves.

It’s One of the Best Souvenirs You Can Bring Home

Sure, keychains and fridge magnets are fun. But a set of beautifully edited family portraits? That’s something you’ll actually look at, frame, and cherish for years. You can print them in a photo book, hang them on your wall, or even send them out as your next holiday card. Every time you look at them, you will be transported back to that special trip — and how good it felt to just be together.

We Make It Easy, Fun, and Fuss-Free

Worried your kids might get bored? Or that it’ll feel awkward? Fret not! Our sessions are designed to be relaxed and natural — more like a walk in the park than a stiff photoshoot. We’ll guide you on where to go, how to pose, and help you just enjoy the moment. And yes, we know how to get the little ones to smile, especially the shy ones.

Final Thought

So if you’re coming to Malaysia soon, whether it’s your first trip or your tenth, consider making space in your itinerary for a family photoshoot. It’s more than just photos. It’s a way to remember the laughter, the love, and the little moments that made your trip unforgettable. And who knows? You might just start a new family tradition. 😊📸

Ready to plan your session? Let’s chat and find the perfect time and place for your family’s story.

Grace Tan In Casual Portraits, Family + Children Portraits, Maternity, Musings, Portraits, Pre-Wedding & Engagement Portraits, Tips + Ideas

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.

Grace Tan In At Home, Beautiful Everyday, Casual Portraits, Family + Children Portraits, Portraits

Embracing Malaysian Culture in Family Photography

Since it’s Malaysia Day, I was thinking about how we can incorporate Malaysian culture into our family photo sessions. My heritage as a child born into a Peranakan family in Melaka is colourful, but personally, I have not embraced much of the culture in my daily life (except to wear the kebaya and eat pong teh occasionally). My children certainly do not identify as being Peranakan.

The thing is, growing up, seeing my mom cook all her Peranakan dishes using the batu lesung, listening to my parents speak the Peranakan lingo, and being asked to pin the kerongsang on her kebaya didn’t feel like heritage. It felt like a normal, everyday part of life. I didn’t know what I had until I lost it. Of course, I never had the opportunity to document most of these everyday memories, as cameras were a luxurious item we didn’t own back then. This photo of my parents taken in front of our home in Melaka is a precious memory for me. It is not fancy, but it is meaningful.

We value the things we once took for granted as we age. I wish my parents were still alive so I could take a beautiful portrait of them in their element. If I could do it again, I would photograph my mom in her kebaya holding a bakul sia filled with her homemade pineapple tarts, which she used to make every Chinese New Year. I would create a mini-video documentary of everyday life snippets, filled with stories from yesteryear.

As a family photographer, I have photographed so many different cultures in Malaysia. Family photo shoots are more than just a moment in time—they are a celebration of history, heritage, and identity. Interestingly, as more and more inter-racial marriages take place, our cultural identity becomes even more diverse and fascinating for the next generation!

So here are some ideas on how you can infuse Malaysian family culture into your next photo shoot and create something that resonates deeply with your family’s story.

1. Cultural Dressing

Clothing is one of the easiest and most visually striking ways to incorporate culture into family photos. In Malaysia, we are blessed with beautiful cultural garments that can be beautifully showcased in a photo shoot. Whether you are wearing the baju kurung, cheongsam, saree, or any East Malaysian traditional costume, these outfits can look especially striking because most of them are rather colorful! These outfits can carry deep meaning, reflecting your family’s roots and values.

2. Locations

Malaysia’s diverse landscapes are another wonderful way to integrate cultural elements into your photos. Choosing locations that are meaningful to your family’s background or that hold cultural significance can create a profound visual story. For some of you, your family home could be a heritage site or museum on its own! You could take photos in your hometown, whether it is the city or the kampung. When making a choice, think about the significance of the locations to you. It could even be a simple location like the family swing, where you used to enjoy moments as sisters growing up.

3. Props

Props are a fantastic way to add personal and cultural touches to your family photos. Every Chinese New Year, my family would dress up for a family photo. It’s a great time to add in props like Mandarin oranges, lanterns, bakul sias, baskets, and angpaos! Other ideas could be incorporating old family photos into the current image. It’s a great way to remember how far you have come and to see how everyone has aged gracefully.

4. Extending the Shoot: Coffee Table Books and Family Videos

After your photo shoot, you can enhance the experience by crafting keepsakes that narrate your family’s story more comprehensively. You could do it with a beautifully designed coffee table book that allows you to showcase the photos in a way that tells your family’s story. You can organize the book chronologically, starting with older family members and progressing to the younger generations, or you can group photos by theme—such as family traditions, celebrations, or important milestones. This family went the extra mile in creating their coffee table book—it was a huge family project that incorporated their family tree, written stories, and scanned letters from great-grandparents!

A video is another way to capture the essence of your family’s cultural heritage. We’ve created short family films that combine video clips from the shoot with candid moments, and sometimes even interviews with family members. Imagine capturing your grandparents sharing stories about their youth or your children talking about what their heritage means to them. This turns your family photos into a living, breathing memory that you can pass down through generations.

Documenting heritage through photos and videos can be a wonderful way of passing a piece of life to the next generation. This is why we do what we do at Stories—our vision is to touch lives by building visual stories for the present and future generations. As a photographer, it’s a joy and honour to capture these moments, knowing they’ll be cherished for years to come.