Portraits

Grace Tan In Family + Children Portraits, Portraits

The Nasimuddin family: Raya portraits

When you add 8 young children below the age of 8 together in a large group portrait, chaos is sure to happen. Between threats, bribery, monkey calls (I was doing the monkey impression), we managed to get the attention of children. I even had to don my special lens accessory to attract them (look at the last photo to see what I mean). Between tears, shouts of “I don’t want to take a photo” and “Look here!”, we managed to get this…

We have a few versions of the group photo, but here’s what really took place behind the scenes of the Naza family’s Raya portraits.

We are really honoured to be part of their annual Raya photos for the 3rd year in a row, thanks to Datuk Wira SM Faisal. I also got to taste the delicious rendang made by his mum once again. This really close knit family is a joy to photograph. There’s just so much love and laughter in this family.

Grace Tan In Beautiful Everyday, Family + Children Portraits, Portraits

Mum’s the Best!

In May, we ran a Mother’s Day contest with Eka Roots to celebrate that beautiful woman in our lives. It was wonderful to read the many entries, sharing their thoughts on why their mum deserved to win our Pamper session for 2. But alas, we could only choose one winner… and that was Siew Keng and her mum. This is what she wrote about her mother:

Turning 80 this year, she looks 20 years younger. Her youthful look is because she’s filled with so much joy and love that constantly is poured out to those around her. That’s her love language, acts of service. She never tires to help those in need of care, love and companionship. She’ll run to the market to buy the best produce to boil nourishing soup for those who are sick, she takes the effort to visit her lonely or sick neighbors, she mobilises her other friends to visit the less mobile friends.
Mum, thank you for being my role model. A woman that has such a big and caring heart, even right at this age ripe old age. So selfless and compassionate. Filled with life and cheekiness. I will try to be more like you, a people-centric person.

Mum’s been the pillar of strength in this family as she single-handedly brought the both of us up, growing up, we were never missing out on anything in life. She’s wise, full of perseverance, has tenacity, organised, focused. She’s also caring, proactive, God-centered, loving, selfless, generous. Both our parents have given us such a strong legacy to exemplify. We are blessed.

Grace Tan In Casual Portraits, Family + Children Portraits, Musings, Portraits, Running a Business, Studio

Janet’s Story: Beyond Epilepsy

I first heard about Janet through her mother, Joyce, at a BNI meeting I was attending. Joyce showed one of Janet’s paintings, which was translated into a beautiful top of the same design. As I got to know Joyce, I also got to know Janet. Janet went through many challenges as she was growing up… she had uncontrollable seizures due to epilepsy and was diagnosed as intellectually and developmentally delayed.

Despite her challenges, she displayed determination to succeed in life. In 2011, she started her own business selling artwork, home baked cookies and fashion wear using her paintings as her main design. After years of hard work, Janet also graduated with a Diploma in Small Business Management in 2017.

She dreams of being financially independent by growing this business and to be recognized and accepted as one of us.

Janet’s achievement in life has really inspired me! It goes to show that all things are possible if you truly put your heart to it. (backed by an amazingly supportive and entrepreneurial mother!).

If you would like to support Janet in what she does, please visit her website to view the products she has for sale. All the best to you in your journey, Janet!

Credits:

Photographer: Grace
Hair & Make Up: Pearl Tan
Location: Stories studio

Grace Tan In Portraits, Pre-Wedding & Engagement Portraits

Golf themed pre-wedding: Jonathan & Lyn Yen

Jonathan is a professional golfer, and it was over drinks that the both of them met. While Lyn Yen thought that he was a nice guy and easy to talk to, she didn’t have a clue about anything golf-related! But this encounter that brought them together became the start of many more encounters in the future.

Eventually, she learnt that he is a romantic at heart (a huge teddy bear), loves lame jokes, enjoys surprises though a terrible planner with the best intentions. He learnt that she complemented him in areas where he lacked (planning skills especially). It was a match that fit like a glove.

We had a great time during our simple pre-wedding shoot at TPC KL, a golf course that Jonathan frequents often. That day of the shoot, it was storming, and the rain just made all our shoes wet (even in the lobby). I love how this couple is so easy going – though I was worried about the unrelenting storm (like, it was dark skies everywhere with no sign of stopping), but Jon & Lyn had faith that the rain would stop, and after a while, it did! We managed to head out to the course for some photos afterward.

They were also so casual about how Jon’s face was two toned that day… he had just played at a tournament recently and half his face was tanned while the other half wasn’t! It was quite funny but it told for a great story and we didn’t edit out his half tanned face…

I am excited about their wedding this weekend! See you really soon!

Grace Tan In Beautiful Everyday, Casual Portraits, Musings, Portraits, Studio, Tips + Ideas

How to Prepare for Better Profile Headshots

Very often taking some professional headshots sits low on one’s to-do list. Little do people realize that a good headshot is a powerful way to market oneself. Whether you’re a model, business owner, lawyer or a fresh graduate, a professionally taken profile picture will make you look even better on your website, LinkedIn, social media pages and brochures.

Besides choosing the right photographer who suits your style and who knows how to bring out the best in you, there are a few things you can do to ensure you get the best images. Remember, first impressions count! So, spend a little time preparing for a stress-free session. You won’t regret it.

1. Hair and Makeup

Whether you’re male or female, a little grooming will not hurt. For makeup, start natural and only apply eyeshadow and lipstick just before the shoot. Try applying lip balm to keep lips soft. You may bring along some makeup for touch ups, plus a hairbrush and hair products to tame any unruly hair before the shoot. For men, shave right before you leave for the shoot so you’ll have that clean-cut look.

If you can afford it, hire a makeup artist so that your makeup and hair will be professionally coifed for that perfect headshot! Continue Reading