studio

Grace Tan In Family + Children Portraits, Portraits, Studio

Studio vs outdoor photos: Which is better?

“Should we do a studio shoot or go outdoors for my family photoshoot?”

Now, that’s probably one of the most common questions photographers get before a family shoot. And honestly? That isn’t exactly the easiest question to answer, as there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer.

If you were to ask Stories, we’d probably not start by talking about parks or studios. Instead, we’d probably ask you these questions:

Can you please tell me about your family?
How many people are there?
How old are the children?
Will Grandma be joining?
What kind of experience are you hoping for?
Most importantly, what do you want these photos to feel like?

And there’s a reason for these questions.

What photographers actually think about when you mention ‘location’

Some clients often think that location is the biggest deal breaker for family photoshoots. However, photographers don’t.

When a photographer hears “studio” or “park”, they’re already imagining something different. They’re probably thinking about the lighting, the movement, the mood, and the family dynamics.

And that’s how we at Stories think. Because deciding between a studio and the outdoors isn’t really about choosing a prettier background — it’s about choosing an environment that helps your family relax, connect, and create the kind of memories you actually want to remember years from now.

For example, photographing a family of four with energetic toddlers is very different from photographing 20 extended family members, including a 90-year-old grandmother in a wheelchair. A beautiful park might sound lovely, but if getting everyone there becomes exhausting, those tired faces will show up in the photos, too.

Again, the location isn’t the star of the photo. The family is. The location simply helps bring the story to life. But there is no harm in looking a little deeper to figure out which setup is the best for your family photoshoot.

A family photoshoot in a studio

A session in the studio = Reassurance and comfort.

The temperature is cool. Nobody is sweating before, during, or after the session. You don’t have to wonder if it’s going to rain. There aren’t any mosquitoes or random strangers walking past you in the background. The best part? There’s a nice, clean toilet at your disposal (every Malaysian knows the pain of finding clean, dry toilets at our local parks).

It’s safe to say that everything feels manageable.

For photographers, a studio offers something valuable: control. We have a beautiful natural light studio, but on gloomy days, studio lighting can be added.

However, there might be a concern that studios are “boring”. And we’re here to tell you that isn’t the case.

In fact, creativity can sometimes be more challenging when you keep doing sessions in the same space, but that can push photographers (especially us) to see a familiar space in new ways.

That’s not all; studios can make life easier for your family. Young children have a contained, safe space to run around. Elderly parents don’t have to walk long distances. Families with members who need quiet breaks, such as autistic children, have a space to pause before jumping back into the session.

The outdoors: When the setting tells part of the story

For outdoor shoots, there’s a different type of magic — the environment becomes part of your story.

Instead of simply serving as a backdrop, the location adds context to your photos. It could be your favourite park or even your family home. These places often hold memories long before the photoshoot begins, making the photos feel even more personal.

Outdoor shoots also naturally encourage movement. There’s more room for children to run, parents to walk hand in hand, or families to simply interact without feeling confined to one spot.

However, of course, outdoor shoots also come with less control. Lighting changes through the session, the weather can be unpredictable, and in Malaysia, heat and humidity are all part of the experience. But that’s not all; we’d recommend shooting early in the mornings — as early as 7 a.m., when the light is softer and the weather is cooler.

Outdoor photography works beautifully for families who enjoy being active, prefer candid moments over posed portraits, or simply want their photos to capture a particular place that’s meaningful to them.

So…which setting is better for your family photoshoot?

It’s like asking whether coffee is better hot or iced.

Neither is better. They’re simply made for different moments.

A studio offers comfort, consistency, and complete creative control. It’s ideal for families who value convenience, have younger babies or children, elderly relatives, or anyone who wants a relaxed, stress-free experience.

An outdoor shoot offers movement, personality, and storytelling. It’s perfect for families who love candid interactions and don’t mind embracing a little unpredictability along the way.

Here’s a simpler way to think about it:

At the end of the day, the “better” location is the one that helps your family feel like themselves because years from now, you probably won’t remember whether the photos were taken in a studio or at a park — you’ll remember how everyone laughed.

And that’s what a great family photography session is all about.

Are you ready to plan your family photoshoot? Get in touch with us! We’d love to help you find the perfect setting for your story.

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

Here’s what happens during a family photography session: A walk-through

Family photoshoots can get…extremely chaotic.

Between booking a session, coordinating outfits, getting everyone out the door on time, and wondering if the children will cooperate, it’s completely normal to feel a little overwhelmed and uncertain.

That’s not all; you’ll even find yourself asking the same questions:
Will an hour be enough?
What happens if my child has a meltdown?
How will the photographers manage my large family?
Will the photos turn out the way I want?

The good news is that, with us, a family photoshoot is far less stressful than most people think. A lot of planning takes place long before the shoot, and we’ll guide you through every stage. Here’s everything you should expect, from the initial enquiry to the last photo taken.

Before the family photoshoot even starts

Preparation begins the moment you reach out to enquire about a session. One of the first things we’ll discuss is the size of your family, as it helps determine the duration of the photoshoot.

Why? Well, smaller families (two to four members) may only need 30 minutes, while larger groups (five or more members) often require more time, typically an hour to two, and sessions rarely go beyond that. However, if you require a shoot that involves several outfit changes or have chosen a location that involves a lot of walking, it may take longer — even if you’re a family of four.

Once your booking is confirmed, we’ll send over a questionnaire and preparation guide to help us get to know your family better and ensure the session runs smoothly.

Some questions we’ll include in the questionnaire are:
– How many children will be participating? Do your children have any special needs we should be aware of?
– Tell us about yourself and your family.
– Do you have any specific requests, ideas you’d like to execute, or props you’ll be bringing?
– Please describe the outfits you’ve chosen for the session (formal, casual, colours, etc).
– We’ll also ask about special needs requirements or anything that could help us create a comfortable environment.

For example, if a family of 15 is attending, it’s useful for us to know how everyone is connected and how you’d like the group photos organised. With all this information, we’ll be able to plan ahead so that everyone spends less time figuring things out on the day itself.

The first few minutes of the session

The day of your family photoshoot has arrived. Your session starts at 12 p.m., but rather than rushing in right on the dot, it’s always best to arrive about 15 minutes early. By this point, you’ve spent the entire morning getting everyone dressed and double-checking that nobody has forgotten anything important — it’s basically chaos.

Arriving early will give your family some time to wind down and get used to your environment. At the same time, our photographer will take a few minutes to chat with your family — to get acquainted and understand the dynamics between each member. If your family photoshoot is taking place outdoors or at home, our photographer will usually arrive earlier to assess the location, understand the space, identify the best spots, and determine how to make the most of it.

The first part of the photoshoot — traditional family portraits

Once the photoshoot begins, we’ll typically start with the more traditional family photographs. For large families, these group portraits are usually done first while everyone’s attention is fresh. For those with children, this is key, as they’re usually willing to listen during the opening part of the session, as they are curious when entering a new environment.

If you’ve already provided a shot list, we’ll take it into consideration and will advise accordingly. Basically, we’ll go according to the flow of what we think works best, based on the situation of the shoot. For example, we may try to photograph the families with the youngest children first, and adult-only photos will come last.

The second part of the photoshoot — candid moments

Once the key group photos are complete, the session becomes more relaxed. We’ll flow between posed and candid photos throughout the session. Rather than asking everyone to stand and smile, we’ll encourage interactions. Families may be asked to walk together, talk, play games, laugh, or simply spend time together.

The goal is to capture genuine and authentic moments. We’ll still provide guidance and suggestions throughout this session. You never need to worry about knowing how to pose or what to do next.

Wrapping up the session

As the session comes to an end, we’ll do a quick review of remaining combinations or requests that haven’t yet been photographed. This is also an opportunity to capture any final images family members may have in mind during the session.

If you have children at the shoot, here’s how it’s going to go

Now, for those with children, you’ll probably be worried about how your children will behave. The good news? Children behaving like children is completely normal.

If a child becomes overwhelmed, shy, tired, or throws a tantrum, there’s no need to panic. It doesn’t mean the session is failing. In fact, one of the best things parents can do is to stay calm. If a child needs a break, we’ll simply adjust the schedule. They can have a snack, take a short break, or step away from the camera. We’ll simply photograph other family members.

What we try to avoid is creating additional pressure. Children can quickly sense stress if they’re scolded or forced into participating. Instead, we’ll work with the child’s energy.

In the studio, we have a small slide-and-play area for children to settle in. Music will be used to create a relaxed environment. We also encourage parents to ensure their children are well-fed before the photoshoot.

Other than that, we recommend not allowing your children to use a digital device during the shoot, as it may cause disengagement and make it difficult to separate the child from the device. Most importantly, trust the process. Remember, experienced family photographers understand that children have good and difficult moments.

All of these are part of family life, and capturing your family as you are is the goal. If you’re still unsure about taking the next steps, do reach out to us. We’re always happy to chat, answer your questions, and help you plan a family photoshoot that works for everyone.

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.

Suzyana Ong In Casual Portraits, Family + Children Portraits, Portraits, Tips + Ideas

Top Tips for Photographing Large Families: Capturing Timeless Moments

If you’ve ever been involved in coordinating a family photoshoot, you’d understand the challenges that comes with it. The larger the number, the more stressful it gets! As photographers who have photographed large families up to 40 people, it’s daunting for us as well. Posing large families and ensuring everyone looks their best requires experience and skills. In Malaysia, there are many festive seasons where a family portrait session becomes necessary. If you are trying to DIY a large family portrait at home, these tips will help you master the art of photographing large families!

1. Start with a plan

Before the photoshoot, communicate with the family to discuss their vision, preferences, and any specific poses they have in mind. Consider factors such as location, wardrobe choices, and the overall style of the portraits. Having a clear plan in place will streamline the process and ensure everyone is prepared.

2. Choose a location

Selecting a suitable location is essential for large family portraits. Outdoor settings with ample natural light, such as parks, gardens, or beaches, provide a beautiful backdrop and ample space for posing. However, it can be pretty humid and chaotic when you bring so many people outdoors, so make sure you set everyone’s expectations prior to the shoot. Alternatively, if shooting indoors, opt for areas with neutral backgrounds to avoid distractions.

3. Appoint a leader

A leader is tasked in coordinating and organizing the entire shoot from the start till the end, as well as communicating with all the family members and photographer to ensure a smooth session. Create a chat group so that everyone involved receives the same message and information about the photoshoot.

4. Arranging and Posing

When posing large families, it’s helpful to establish a hierarchy to ensure everyone is positioned appropriately. Start by placing the parents or grandparents at the centre of the group, with smaller family units positioned around them. This arrangement helps to identify the family’s structure more clearly. Instead of lining everyone up in a straight row, arrange family members in layers to add depth and dimension to the photograph. This technique creates visual interest and prevents the image from appearing too flat. You can place taller individuals towards the back and shorter ones towards the front to avoid blocking faces. Utilize props or natural elements like stairs or benches to add dimension to the scene.

5. Pay attention to details

Try to take the time to pay attention to details such as wardrobe coordination, hair and hand placement. Besides that, notice for any distracting elements in the background and make adjustments as necessary. Additionally, be mindful of facial expressions, body language, and posture to convey warmth and unity within the family. Avoid stiff, unnatural poses by encouraging relaxed and comfortable stances. Guide family members to lean towards each other slightly or make physical contact to convey closeness and affection.

6. Experiment with different angles

If you have a really large family like the one below, and find it really hard to get a location to fit everyone, you can try to take a top angle shot! Everyone can be standing on the same level, but as long as they can see the camera, their faces will be seen.

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

Types of Backdrops in Our Studio for your Family Photoshoot

Although we love doing photoshoots outdoors (check out our article for best parks) and at our client’s homes, we understand why you might prefer a studio session – it’s more comfortable, convenient, plus it has air conditioning! You won’t even need to do housekeeping, we’ll get the space sorted for you before you arrive! A studio photo session can be ideal for those reasons, but it doesn’t have to be generic. You can inject your own personality and flair to the shoot by selecting a backdrop to match your style. Below are the options available should you choose to do a session in our studio.

1. Classic or plain backdrop

If you’re those looking for a timeless and classy look, you can opt for a plain studio backdrop. We have backdrops in white, grey and black. You will also have the choice of shooting with our studio’s brown walls if these colours don’t work for you.

To help decide on your backdrop colour, plan your outfits and look in advance to ensure your clothes match with the background. The colour of the backdrop can influence the final outcome of the pictures – for classy vibe, opt for a darker background or choose a lighter background for something simple and versatile. If you have a special theme or idea in mind, please let us know!

2. Lifestyle

Lifestyle photography involves more authentic background settings – think contemporary furniture and even plants! At our studio we have a variety of couches, rugs, pillows and blankets that you can incorporate into your shoot. These items will give a cosy feeling and will lend a more natural look to your photos. Plus they make the shoot more comfortable!