Portraits

Jasmine Tai In Family + Children Portraits, Misc, Newborn, Studio

Newborn Photoshoot Questions Every New Parent Asks

Hey parents-to-be! If you are expecting a little bundle of joy soon, we would like to say: Congratulations! What an exciting, love-filled season you are entering into.

At our family photography studio, we’ve been honored to walk alongside many families just like yours. One big thing we’ve learned? You probably have a ton of questions. And that is absolutely fine! This is all new territory.

So here are some of the most commonly asked questions we get from expecting (and excited) parents:

What is a newborn photoshoot?

A newborn photoshoot is a photography session which specialises in capturing images of a baby in its first few weeks of life. The main focus on the shoot would of course be your baby and often includes detailed close-up shots, sleeping baby poses or some styling such as use of swaddles or some props.

When is the best time to do a newborn photoshoot?

Ideally, we recommend booking your photo session within the first 2 to 3 weeks after birth. If you are looking for photos of sleepy, swaddled babies, the best time to do this is in the first 14 days, when the babies are still extra sleepy, snuggly, and naturally curl into those adorable womb-like poses. After passing that precious time-window, babies tend to stretch out more and may be more alert, which is still beautiful, just slightly different in style! We shared about baby’s milestones that are worth capturing from birth to 12 months old, you can check it out here.

What if my baby comes earlier or later than expected?

No worries at all! We always build flexibility into our newborn bookings. When you book with us, we will tentatively slot you in based on your due date, and once the baby arrives, just give us a ping. We will finalize your shoot date from there. You don’t need to know the exact day when you book, just keep us posted and we will handle the rest.

Do I need to bring my own props or outfits?

Typically babies will be undressed or swaddled during the session and we will supply these props. However, if there’s a special blanket or outfit (maybe specially-knitted one by grandma?) or a hand-me-down, feel free to bring it along, we would love to include it in the photos!

Can we include grandparents or siblings in the photos?

Absolutely, yes! Some of the most heartwarming photos are the ones with grandparents gently holding their newborn, or siblings peeking at the baby with wide-eyed wonder. We welcome the whole family and will guide everyone through poses that feel natural, calm, and connected.

How long will the session take?

Our newborn sessions start from 1.5 hours and will include one styling with props and some time for lifestyle shots with the family. We do buffer in time for cuddles, diaper changes, feeds, and plenty of soothing breaks. It’s all very relaxed, there’s no need to rush.

What if my baby cries or won’t sleep?

That is totally normal and nothing to stress about. Newborns are unpredictable, and we expect some fussing or alert moments. Depending on the age of your baby at the shoot, we often include a newborn handler to assist with getting your baby to sleep or with guiding your baby into the poses. Often, even awake shots can be incredibly beautiful, so we will follow the baby’s lead, they’re the main star here.

What should I wear for family photos?

Neutral, soft colors always look timeless, think whites, beiges, dusty blues, or muted pastels. Try to avoid large logos or busy patterns. Comfort is key, especially for new mamas who are still healing. Try a loose long dress for mama, and an oversized khaki shirt for dada, or somewhere along that line.

How soon will I see the photos?

You’ll get a sneak peek within 5 working days (because we know you’ll be excited!), and your edited photos will be ready in 14 working days. We’ll help you choose your favorite images and can even guide you in picking frames, albums, or prints that suit your home.

Final Thoughts (and a Big Hug)

If you are feeling overwhelmed by it all, try taking a deep breath. We’re here not just as photographers, but as people who genuinely care about this fleeting, magical moment in your life. Every newborn session is built around love, gentleness, and a whole lot of patience.

So whether you’re still browsing, already booked in, or planning to call us after the baby arrives, we can’t wait to meet you and your family and create something special and magical together.

Got more questions? Reach out anytime. We’re always happy to chat, share tips, or just celebrate this beautiful journey with you.

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?

Jasmine Tai In Outdoor Weddings, Pre-Wedding & Engagement Portraits, 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.