Family + Children Portraits

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 rrepellent 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.

Jasmine Tai In Family + Children Portraits, Portraits, Studio

Chinese New Year Family Portraits

Here are some of the family photos we have taken during previous Chinese New Year celebrations! Imagine making this a family annual tradition that everyone can look forward to, not just the simple act of smiling for a photo, but also the time spent with each other, especially when family members are not living in the same country anymore. Look back at these cherished moments through photographs beautifully taken for you and your family.

Jasmine Tai In Family + Children Portraits, Portraits, Studio

Why a Multi-Generational Family Photoshoot is Worth It

Let’s talk about something many of us overlook—family photos, especially ones that bring multiple generations together. At first glance, it might not seem like a big deal. But if you think about it, when was the last time your whole family—grandparents, parents, kids—gathered to create something meaningful together? A multi-generational photoshoot isn’t just about pretty pictures; although that is great. It’s more about capturing what makes your family unique. Let me explain why it’s worth considering.

It Celebrates Your Family Story

Every family has a story untold, and it’s easily forgotten as life speeds by. A photo session like this gives you a chance to honor where you’ve come from—your roots. Grandparents, for instance, often carry so much history, wisdom, and experience that shape the family. My grandparents came from China many years ago but it saddens me that no one from the generation before me (my dad and his siblings) know anything about where they came from. Having a photoshoot that ties them with younger generations is a powerful way to celebrate that legacy and help everyone, especially the younger ones, understand the bigger picture of who they are and their culture.

You’ll Preserve Precious Memories

Memories fade over time, but photos can bring them back in an instant. A multi-generational shoot freezes a moment that you’ll want to look back on years from now. Imagine being able to show your grandkids what their great-grandparents looked like or seeing how much love and connection was shared in a particular moment. These aren’t just pictures—they’re keepsakes you’ll treasure forever.

It Brings Everyone Closer

Getting everyone together for a photoshoot is more than just standing in front of a camera. It’s about sharing an experience. It’s in the preparation—coordinating outfits, talking about locations, reminiscing about old times—and in the day itself, with everyone laughing and interacting among one another. These moments of being together at the same time and the same place help create stronger bonds, especially between generations that don’t see each other often due to living in different cities or countries.

Everyone Gets to Be Included

How often do we take photos and realize later that someone was missed out? Maybe it’s the grandparents or a shy cousin who didn’t want to be in the picture. A multi-generational photoshoot ensures no one is left out. It’s a rare chance to show that everyone matters and belongs, creating a lasting reminder of each complete family unit.

It’s Creative and Fun

This kind of photoshoot isn’t just about standing stiffly with your hands by your side and saying, “Cheese.” You can make it as creative as you want! Whether you go for a formal portrait where the older generation sits and the younger generation stands, a relaxed outdoor scene at the yard of your grandparents’ house, or even a theme that represents your family’s personality, the possibilities are endless! The process itself is a great and enjoyable way to express your family’s unique style.

It Marks Life’s Changes

Babies grow up, grandparents age, and families evolve. Life moves fast. A multi-generational photoshoot captures your family at a specific moment in time, whether it’s a major milestone, like a wedding anniversary, or during festive seasons like Chinese New Year, Hari Raya, Deepavali or Christmas. Looking back, these photos become a timeline of your family’s journey—one filled with love, growth, and change.

It Can Become a Tradition

Why stop at just one photoshoot? Many families make this an annual or regular tradition. Over time, you’ll create a collection of photos that show your family’s growth and changes. Imagine looking at the photo prints at your family’s home, what a beautiful way to keep everyone connected and ensure that even as life pulls people in different directions, there’s always something to bring them back together.

It Honors Aging Loved Ones

Let’s be real—our older family members won’t always be around. A multi-generational photoshoot is a way to cherish their presence while we still can. It’s a tribute to their lives and their role in shaping the family. These photos become precious reminders of their love, wisdom, and the legacy they leave behind.

Final Thoughts

A multi-generational photoshoot is so much more than a family picture—it’s a celebration of love, history, and family bond. It’s about honoring the past, cherishing the present, and creating something that will live on in the future. If you’ve never thought about it before, or you have never understood the significance of it, maybe now’s the time. Because one day, you’ll look back and be so grateful for the chance to hold on to these treasured memories.

At Stories, we pride ourselves on capturing family moments, from small families of 3 to even large family portraits of 40 family members! Remember, each generation and family brings something unique to the table. What a better way to capture it all than in an unforgettable photo that can be passed down from generation to generation. For more information on our family shoots, reach out to us.

Bin Bin Tan In Family + Children Portraits, Portraits, Studio

What To Wear For Your Family Photoshoot – A Step by Step Guide

“What Should My Family Wear?” We’re asked this so frequently that we’ve written several articles about it (Click on the thumbnails to read more!):

However, if you’re still having trouble after reading the articles above, here is a simple step-by-step guideline that will hopefully help you get your family photo ready.

Step 1: Decide if you’re going formal or casual

To ensure that everyone in the family is on the same page, decide the level of formality of your photoshoot. Are you planning a casual shoot or would you like everyone to be more dressed up? Dressing up doesn’t have to mean wearing something extremely formal; it can just mean going a little further than normal, like wearing a nice dress for the ladies or a fitted shirt instead of a t-shirt for men.

When deciding the style, do consider the location of your shoot as well. For example, a grand hotel lobby could be an ideal backdrop for a formal photoshoot, but if you’re doing your shoot at home or in a park, a more relaxed style might be preferable.

If you’re planning to shoot in our studio, we will be able to set up according to either style.

Step 2: Decide your base colour

In your next step, choose two to three colours for everyone to select from and request the family to stick to the same range of colours. To achieve this, decide on the primary colour you want for your photo session. This may be based on the outfit you wish to wear or just the colour that the majority of your family members may likely already have.

Step 3: Coordinate colours

After selecting the main colour, use the colour wheel to select complementary colours. Complementary colours are hues that are directly opposite each other on the colour wheel, such as yellow and purple. You can also select colours next to each other such as blue and purple as adjacent colours on the wheel also blend well together.

Should the above prove too challenging to coordinate, you can opt for colour shading, which involves selecting lighter or darker shades of your chosen colour. Therefore, if your primary colour is blue, your family members can then choose a variety of blue outfits that may range from navy to pastel.

If all else fails, neutrals such as blue, cream, khaki, or white are popular choices and you can’t go wrong with these.

Step 4: Ensure there is variety

Having a variety of outfits such as blouses, shirts, jeans, skirts and long dresses will create more dimension to your photos. Encourage your family members to wear clothing that expresses their individuality and sense of style. Use different textiles, such knits or lace, to provide texture. You can also incorporate texture by layering – such as throwing on a shirt over a plain tee, a cardigan over a dress or a shawl over your blouse.

If you’re not sure about your selections, feel free to bring an extra outfit to switch up on the day of the shoot.

Some final tips!

Avoid clothing with large graphics, brand logos or too many patterns.
Ensure your clothes fit properly. Do try on your outfit before the shoot to check that it fits well and that you can not only move around comfortably but sit comfortably as well.
Steer clear of clingy fabrics that may highlight unflattering areas.
Make sure to iron out the wrinkles in your outfit prior to the shoot.
Don’t forget to think about your footwear.
Comfort is a must!

If you need more help in this area, feel free to drop us a message and we can discuss more!

Shan Szetho In At Home, Family + Children Portraits, Portraits, Studio

Tips for Managing Family Photo Sessions

With Christmas and Chinese New Year around the corner, family photo shoots are a wonderful way to capture memories that will last a lifetime. But they can also bring on challenges, especially when working with kids, elderly family members, and coordinating relatives. Here are some useful tips to overcome the potential hurdles and ensure a smooth, enjoyable family photo shoot session.

Preparing for the Shoot

It is important to discuss expectations and logistics with the family well in advance. This is so that everyone is aware of the final outcome and there are no surprises on the day of the shoot. Encourage them to plan outfits, consider location preferences, and think about any specific groupings or shots they’d like to capture. Make sure you communicate your preferences to the photographer before the photo session – a practice we highly encourage at Stories!

Bring Essentials

Remind family members to bring snacks, water, and anything that can make the shoot more comfortable for kids and seniors. Small toys or comfort items can help children, while a folding chair may be beneficial for older family members, especially if they have to stand long. You might also consider bringing small hand fans or umbrellas if you are shooting outdoors, as this can help to ensure everyone is more comfortable despite hot weather to keep grumpiness at bay.

Engaging Kids

Young children are often the biggest challenge in family photo shoots. They might be impatient, fussy, or simply not interested in following directions. However, with a little creativity and flexibility, you can capture beautiful photos without forcing kids into unnatural poses or expressions. Parents should encourage their kids and work together with the photographer to get the best outcomes. Remember that the photographer’s job is to take the photo, and not to entertain the kids. Specific tips for kids include:

Make it Fun: Bring small toys, bubbles, or other playful items to capture their interest. These items can be both a distraction and a prop for spontaneous shots.
Be Flexible with Posing: Avoid expecting young kids to stay still or smile on command. Instead, allow them to interact naturally with their surroundings and family members.
Breaks and Snacks: Children, especially toddlers, might need breaks and snacks. Schedule breaks during the shoot to avoid meltdowns and pack their favorite yummy snacks.
Involve the Parents: Sometimes, kids respond better when parents are actively involved. Have parents play, laugh, tickle, throw them up in the air or sing songs with them to capture more candid shots.
Make the Photo Session A Game: Turn everything into a game, like pretending to see who can freeze and smile the biggest or who can laugh the longest.

Handling Older Adults

Older family members might have limited mobility or health considerations. It’s essential to keep them comfortable while ensuring they’re a part of the memorable moments. Some specific tips when including older senior family members can be:

Choose Accessible Locations: Select a location that’s easy to navigate, with minimal walking and few obstacles. If stairs or uneven ground are unavoidable, bring walking aids and portable seating options.
Keep Sessions Short: Avoid lengthy sessions that could tire them out. If the family shoot is extensive, prioritise shots involving seniors early on, allowing them to rest afterward. Building some breaks in can also be helpful for them.
Incorporate Chairs or Props: Use chairs, benches, or even walkers for comfortable and relaxed poses. This also helps elderly family members feel included without having to stand for prolonged periods.

Managing Tricky Family Dynamics

Family dynamics can sometimes be complex, and these dynamics can manifest in subtle ways during a photoshoot. It’s crucial to remain sensitive, respectful, and diplomatic, especially if there are any known conflicts or strained relationships within the group. If you know in advance that certain family members may not want to be in close contact, plan the shots accordingly. Ensure everyone feels comfortable without making it apparent to others.

Encourage Group Bonding

Use poses and prompts that encourage family members to interact naturally. Sometimes, playful prompts, like a group hug or telling each other funny stories or even family jokes, can help ease tensions.

Family photoshoots can come with unexpected challenges, but with preparation and patience, you can turn each one into a memorable experience. At Stories, we pride ourselves on capturing family moments, from small families of 3 to even large family portraits of 40 family members! Remember, each generation and family brings something unique to the table. What a better way to capture it all than in an unforgettable photo that can be passed down from generation to generation. For more information on our family shoots, reach out to us.