Maternity

Jasmine Tai In Family + Children Portraits, Maternity, Newborn

Why The Heirloom Package is the Best Gift For Yourself (and Your Baby)

Hey mama (or papa-to-be),

Let’s talk about something real for a minute: how fast babies grow. You hear it from everyone (your mom, your neighbor, even the lady at the grocery store) and it’s always followed with a knowing smile: “Enjoy it now, it goes by in a blink.” And honestly? They’re absolutely right.

One minute you are announcing your pregnancy, the next you’re doing a baby shower party, then you are holding a squishy, wrinkly newborn babe in your arms, and then suddenly, somehow, they are taking their first steps and smearing cake on their face at their first birthday party. It’s crazy! And yet beautiful. And totally worth documenting. That’s why we always recommend the Heirloom Package to parents who want to freeze time, even if just for an hour.

Let us walk you through it.

Start with the Glow — Maternity Photos (Best in the 3rd Trimester)

First up, maternity. We know what you are thinking: “I feel swollen, tired, and none of my clothes fit right now.” Trust us, we get it. But that third trimester glow? It’s magical. That radiant, round belly holding your little miracle deserves to be celebrated.

The best time to do a maternity session is during the third trimester, around 28-34 weeks. You are showing your belly beautifully, and hopefully you are still comfortable enough to move around a bit. The session lasts about an hour, which is just enough time to capture the connection between you, your partner, and that tiny life growing inside you, without making you feel like you’ve run a marathon.

Next Comes Baby — Newborn Session (Within 2–3 Weeks After Birth)

Here’s the thing about newborns: they change literally every day. One day their tiny fists are curled just so, the next their eyelashes seem longer, and suddenly those wrinkly feet are stretching out.

The best window for newborn photos is within the first two to three weeks after birth. This is when babies are sleepiest and most curled up, making it easier to capture those sweet, womb-like poses everyone loves. We keep things relaxed, baby-led, and totally stress-free, because let’s be honest, you will be tired, even getting out of the house is a challenge. You can opt for a photo in our session or you can get us to come to your home where you and your baby will feel most at ease.

One Year of Milestones — You Won’t Believe How Much They Change

Here’s where the Heirloom Package really shines: it includes two wonderful sessions over the course of one year: starting with maternity photoshoot, then a sweet, cuddly newborn photo session.

Each session is one hour. That’s it. Two hours across one whole year to create a beautiful visual story of your baby’s beginning. However, if you would like a longer session, we can do that as well.

What we love most about this package is how it captures the whole journey. You will look back at your maternity photos and remember the anticipation. The newborn images will bring back that new baby smell and the way they curled perfectly on your chest. Tiredness fades, but the memories don’t have to.

Honestly, you’ll probably cry. (A lot of parents do. We will provide tissues.)

Why This Matters — Don’t Let These Moments Slip By

Here’s the thing no one tells you when you become a parent: you won’t remember everything. You’ll try. You’ll promise yourself you will. But babies grow fast. Their little features change constantly, and those sleepy snuggles, gummy smiles, and chubby legs will be gone before you even realize they were here.

That’s why we curated this package, not just to give you beautiful photos (though, yes, that’s for sure), but to give you a peace of mind. To give you a way to hold on to a time that’s as fleeting as it is magical.

Because your baby won’t be this small again.

When Should You Book?

The short answer? Whenever you’re ready. Whether you’re planning to get pregnant or about to deliver a baby, it’s never too late to start capturing these moments. And if you’re reading this with a tiny person snuggled on your chest right now? Take a breath, soak it in, and then drop us that message. You won’t regret it.

A year from now, you will have a full gallery of professional images showing your baby’s first year. Not just how they looked, but how it felt. The connection, the laughter, the love.

And someday, when that baby is running into kindergarten or asking to borrow the car keys, you will have these photos to remind you of where it all began.

You only get one chance to capture the firsts. Let’s make sure you have them forever.

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?

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.

Jasmine Tai In Maternity, Portraits

Alex & Mechell’s Maternity Photoshoot

There’s that unique spark in every couple’s story— a strong bond that makes the journey of life feel like one big adventure. For Alex and Mechell, it’s their shared love of video games. These two have always enjoyed creating fun memories, challenging each other in the game world, and cheering each other on. But now, as they prepare to welcome their little one into the world, their game is changing—it’s leveling up in the most profound way. This maternity photo session is a beautiful reminder that parenthood isn’t just an important responsibility—it’s an adventure, a game of its own, filled with joy and love, and plenty of “levels” to conquer.

Credits:
Photography by Stephen

Grace Tan In Maternity, Portraits

Prop ideas for your maternity photo shoot

A great way of celebrating that baby bump growing inside of you is through a maternity photo session. The best time to do this is between your 30-36 week of pregnancy. You should be nice and shapely then! If you are planning for a maternity session, you should also give some thought to the props that you could bring along to make the photo shoot more fun. Props can add depth, meaning, and a touch of personality to your photos, making each session unique. Here are some creative prop ideas that can elevate your maternity photo shoots.

1. Ultrasound Photos

The ultrasound is your baby’s very first photo! This tiny glimpse into the life growing inside of you adds a personal and emotional touch to the images. It’s a great prop to also reuse in your newborn baby portrait session. It never gets old!

2. Baby Clothes

Including a favorite baby outfit or onesie in the photo shoot can add a cute and personal element. This prop is not only adorable but also creates a sense of anticipation of the future.

3. Baby Shoes

Tiny baby shoes are an adorable addition to any maternity photo shoot. You can place the shoes on the your belly, in your hands, or next to other props. It’s even more fun when you have matching shoes too!

4. Personalized Signs

Personalized signs with the baby’s name, a due date, or a meaningful quote can make a maternity photo shoot feel even more special. These signs can be simple chalkboards, wooden plaques, or even banners. Have an older sibling hold the signboard, and that can be really meaningful as well.

5. Floral Crowns and Bouquets

Flowers can add a soft touch to your session, creating a serene environment. You can opt for fresh flowers that match the season, or choose faux flowers that align with the colour scheme of the session. If you are planning on a photo shoot in a bath tub, you can also add petals into the water.

6. Books

Books are a wonderful prop that can represent the story you will share with your child. There are many personalised books options nowadays, and you can include your baby’s name in the book as well.

7. Sentimental items

You could bring along items that hold a special meaning for you. For example, this could be a piece of jewelery, your wedding bands, a family heirloom, or even your own childhood toy.

We hope this article gives you some ideas on how you can personalise your maternity photo session with props. It brings us great joy to celebrate the anticipation of a newborn. View our maternity portfolio here or contact us to schedule your maternity session!