Weddings

Bin Bin Tan In Musings, Portraits, Pre-Wedding & Engagement Portraits, Tips + Ideas, Wedding Films & Videos

Why You Should Have a Pre-wedding Photoshoot

It’s a bit ironic that I’m writing this article because I didn’t have a pre-wedding shoot. With the benefit of hindsight, I do wish I had more information on the matter and had given the decision more thought. So if you are like me and on the fence of whether you wish to have a pre-wedding shoot, here are 5 reasons to help you decide.

1. Allows you to have more time on your wedding day

You may wonder about the point of a pre-wedding shoot given that you will be having photographs at your wedding day happening in just a few months time. A wedding can be a very demanding and stressful affair. While we will definitely set aside some time to take some couple portraits for you on your actual wedding day, between the ceremony, family photo sessions and guest arrivals, you might not have as much time available to dedicate to your own photos. If you had pre-wedding photos taken, you could relax knowing that couple photos are the last thing on your mind during this already hectic day. Instead, you could spend the day fully immersed in celebrations, enjoying your meal and spending quality time with loved ones.

2. Wedding day trial run

You want your wedding photos to showcase you at your best while still having you be relaxed and natural. Pre-wedding portraits will allow you some time to get used to being in front of the camera. You can practice your poses and reviewing your photos can also help you prepare better for the big day. You can even use your pre-wedding session to test hair and makeup. Knowing ahead of time what suits you best will allow you to feel more at ease on your wedding day.

3. Get to know your photographer

A pre-wedding session is also a great opportunity to get to know your wedding photographer better and get familiar with how they interact and collaborate with you. Additionally, it helps the photographer learn more about you two as a couple. For instance, are you both naturally tactile? Do you prefer more direction in posing? Having this opportunity to know one another and develop a bond can make you feel more comfortable around your photographer and confident that the photographer will be able to deliver you at your best.

4. Variety of locations and styles

On your wedding day, time constraints and logistics can limit photo opportunities. A pre-wedding photoshoot on the other hand, offers more flexibility and you have options to choose for diverse locations and as well as outfits. For example, you may like to take pictures at sunrise or sunset, this can’t be controlled (as much) on your wedding day but it can be planned for during a pre-wedding session.

A pre-wedding photoshoot can also allow you to be as creative as you want. We have even photographed a pre-wedding session in a grocery store! Maybe you want a casual photoshoot or maybe you want to go glamorous with multiple wedding gowns in different styles. It’s a once in a lifetime occasion, so go all out!

5. Tell Your Love Story

A wedding (especially in Asia) can sometimes be a bit of an extended family event. A lot of the wedding planning revolves around creating a great experience for your guests. On the other hand, your pre-wedding session will be exclusively to celebrate you as a couple. You can use this photoshoot to tell your unique love story – perhaps engage in an activity you both enjoy or choose a location that is meaningful to the both of you. You can even take it one step further by adding on a pre-wedding video. A video will really capture all the emotions in the lead up to the big day and will be something you watch and reminisce on in the future.

So there you have it! I hope this list has helped open your mind to the benefits of a pre-wedding session. A bonus from doing the pre-wedding shoot is of course the beautiful, professional pictures that you can use for your save-the-date announcement or to decorate the reception.

If this article has convinced you to have your own pre-wedding shoot, get in touch with us! Do also check out our current promotion with That White Dress for gown rentals starting from as low as RM650.

Grace Tan In Outdoor Weddings, Portraits, Pre-Wedding & Engagement Portraits, Wedding Films & Videos, Weddings

Gary and Beverley’s Pre-Wedding at the Chateau

We’re so excited for Gary and Beverley, the beautiful couple who won our ‘An Enchanting Pre-Wedding Giveaway!’ As a couple, Gary and Beverley radiate joy and love, and their heartfelt story was beautifully captured on photos and in video. This giveaway was made possible by our photography and videography team from Stories, in collaboration with the following vendors:

Venue: The Chateau Spa and Wellness Resort, Bukit Tinggi
Florist: Nook Flowers
Wedding Gown: That White Dress
Groom’s Suit: Men’s Suit Malaysia
Makeup and Hair: My Cherry Style

We would once again like to thank each and everyone of our amazing partners who made this giveaway possible!

Suzyana Ong In Chinese Weddings, Parties & Events, Wedding Films & Videos, Weddings

Wedding at The Majestic Hotel: Adrian & Tracy

The Majestic Hotel’s orchid conservatory is one of the most beautiful indoor spaces in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia! Imagine being surrounded by hundreds of orchids! As orchids require a certain cooling temperature to blossom, you and your guests can enjoy the fresh and cooling breeze as well. Adrian & Tracy didn’t want a huge glamorous wedding with hundreds of guests so the orchid room was perfect for them. We absolutely love how the photos turn out! Orchids seen in every photo :)

Grace Tan In Outdoor Weddings, Weddings

The Ultimate Guide to Planning Your Dream Beach Wedding in Malaysia

Embarking on the journey of planning your destination beach wedding in the enchanting shores of Malaysia? It’s a breathtaking experience, but it can be quite a task organizing your big day from afar. As wedding photographers and videographers who’ve had the privilege of capturing countless beach weddings, especially in the idyllic setting of Langkawi, we’ve got some insider tips to ensure your wedding day becomes a picture-perfect paradise.

1. Golden Hour Magic

When it comes to your beach wedding, timing is everything. Plan to conclude your ceremony about an hour before the sun dips below the horizon – what we call the golden hour. After the ceremony, we will take family and couple portraits. The warm, soft hues of this magical hour will transform your wedding photos into something truly ethereal. The gentle, glowing light will add a touch of enchantment to every shot, making your memories even more special. Trust me, we do a happy dance inside whenever we see beautiful lighting that will make you look even more beautiful!

2. Wind-Proof Your Look

Beaches are synonymous with breezy conditions, and your hair and dress should be prepared to handle the wind. Opt for hairstyles that can withstand the gentle coastal breeze, and consider a wedding dress with flowy fabrics that add to the ethereal vibe, rather than fighting against the elements. If you’re the kind who loves the wind-swept hair look, embrace it! It can be alluring and adds to the natural, carefree feel of the beach.

3. Choose Comfort Over Formality

The beach exudes a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere. Embrace this by ditching the jacket or opting for linen shirts instead of a traditional three-piece suit, especially if you’re prone to perspiring in the heat. Linen is breathable and light, ensuring you stay comfortable throughout your ceremony.

4. Barefoot Bliss

Embrace the beach lifestyle fully by going barefoot or selecting footwear that’s beach-friendly. Not only does this add authenticity to your beach wedding, but it also ensures you and your guests are comfortable as you navigate the sand. For a unique touch, consider handmade crocheted barefoot slippers, like one of our clients did – it adds a personal, artistic twist to your ensemble.

5. Mind the Tides

The tides can be your friend or foe, depending on your timing. Check tide schedules before planning a wedding ceremony or portrait shoot by the beach. Low tide can reveal beautiful tidal pools, offering unique photo opportunities. However, it can also potentially expose imperfections in the sand. High tide, on the other hand, can create dramatic waves in the background, but remember to stay safe, especially if you’re planning to venture into areas that may be rocky.

6. Have a Plan B

Malaysian weather can be unpredictable, and the beach is no exception. While the sun-soaked shores are a paradise most of the time, Mother Nature can sometimes throw surprises your way. Therefore, it’s a wise idea to have a backup plan in case of inclement weather. Having a Plan B ensures that your special day proceeds smoothly, rain or shine. Thankfully, most of the beach weddings we have photographed since 2008 have been fairly dry!

7. Consider the Humidity

Malaysia’s tropical climate can get pretty hot and humid, especially on the beach. As you wander around the resort for those mid-afternoon portraits, you might find a towel handy to freshen up. Consider providing your guests with hand fans to keep them cool during the ceremony, creating a comfortable and enjoyable experience for everyone.

8. Light up dinners by the beach

Lighting is everything for photographers and videographers. If you are planning an outdoor dinner reception by the beach after sunset, keep in mind that the background will be pitch black after sunset. Think about how you may want to add ambient lighting to the scene so that the photos are still spectacular after dark.

Your dream beach wedding in Malaysia promises to be an unforgettable experience, and we can’t wait to be a part of it by turning your cherished moments into timeless photographs or videos. If you’d like us to capture your beach wedding, get in touch with us. We’d be honoured to be by your side on your special day!

Suzyana Ong In Chinese Weddings, Malay Weddings, Outdoor Weddings, Wedding Films & Videos, Weddings

Chinese-Malay Wedding: Atif & Irene

While movies and novels may glamorize the idea of romantic relationships, the truth is, finding happily ever after is not as easy as it sounds. It takes a deep trust to share one’s true self, fears, dreams, and insecurities. True love flourishes when both partners can be open and honest without fear of judgment. This is the story of Atif & Irene.

“Atif and I met at a friend’s party around 10 years ago in Melbourne, we became fast friends but it was a short friendship as he graduated and went back to KL the same year. We reunited in 2018 when he went to Singapore to take a break after a break up with his ex. Even then, we struggled with insecurities of our own and whether we should take on this relationship as it would be a long-distance relationship (LDR). He was especially cautious about this relationship as it was far from his ideal relationship he had in mind. However, as time went by, we realised that the both of us still managed to be by each other’s side despite the distance and challenges. Even until today I think the main foundation of our relationship is because we both want to stay in this relationship with this person.

We don’t have an anniversary because that way I can receive as many gifts whenever I want! (but also I don’t remember when I fell in love with him). Atif still has many insecurities, but I’ve learnt to have fun with him as the days goes by. I am still learning to express myself better around him to make him feel safe with me.”