Last year, we had the privilege of photographing many amazing couples – many of whom have ended up as friends. One of the greatest satisfactions we get as a photographer is being that connection – we help people connect with their emotions as they recall their joyous wedding occasion. So much love is present at all the weddings we have photographed – last year, we photographed all sorts of cultural weddings – from the traditional Chinese wedding to a modern beach wedding and even two middle eastern weddings.

Personally, today, I celebrate 10 years of marriage to my husband Alex Lam, who have been such an amazing pillar of support. It’s hard work to make a marriage flourish, but I thank God who helped nudge me in the right direction when I needed to change an attitude or swallow my pride at times. You can be in love with someone even more than the day you say your vows!

As you listen to the vows of all our clients, may you be touched and reminded that love is the greatest emotion of all.

The post The Wedding Photo Collection: 2015 appeared first on Wedding, portrait photography & cinematic films: Stories.my.

The amazing thing about videos is that you can capture the emotions as it happened… the voice that chokes as she says her vows, the tears falling down the groom’s cheek or a small smile that turns into a big guffaw. It’s so special. It brings you back to that exact moment as it happened, and it is just immortalised. Years later, as you look back on your wedding video or film, it will bring you back to that precise moment.

This is the magic of filmmaking that drew me to it in the first place when I studied Film and Television 18 years ago. Not just because I can create stories, but that it had the power to connect people. I hope you will enjoy this reel compiled by Chi Yin, of wedding stories that we have created for our clients over the past 1-2 years. Filmed by so many talented videographers on our team. Thank you for all your hard work!

Wedding Video Showreel from Stories on Vimeo.

The post Wedding Cinematography Reel appeared first on Wedding, portrait photography & cinematic films: Stories.my.

From the fun chip san leong games to the religious akad nikah ceremony, Zaha and Rachel’s fusion wedding was filled with laughter and tears. I love how the bride DIY-ed a tissue paper flower wall for her Chinese tea ceremony, which turned out gorgeous in the photos. The red contrasted so well with the white gown!

Zaha & Rachel: “Our advice to most couples is do not fuss over the small things, it is not worth going all Bridezilla throughout the wedding planning because it takes months and can be extremely overwhelming. This is especially true with the overflowing dream wedding inspiration on Pinterest and The Wedding Notebook. Do know for a fact that your wedding day will be one of the best days of your life no matter what you have picked for your theme, floral arrangements and even your dress! Just have FUN, I know we had the best time of our lives!

Everyone has a budget in mind when planning a wedding, the key is to prioritise on what matters to both of you most! We feel that less could be spent on decor by allocating a bigger budget for an amazing team of established wedding photographers – simply because they have the experience and creative skills to compose the best shots.”

Flashback to college 7 years ago. Zaha and Rachel were in the same class but never spoke until they were assigned the same team for a group project. Even then, we were merely acquaintances. But one day, Zaha showed up in class injured after a major car accident the week before. Being unable to write due to his injuries, Rachel offered to take notes for him until he was better (aaw!). They dated for 3 years before they decided to take things seriously.

Then on 16 Dec 2012 they officially became a couple when Zaha took Rachel to Langkawi for a random 1 day trip. 3 years later he proposed to Rachel in Thailand while they were watching the sunset on a sailboat. Now on their 4 year anniversary (16th Dec 2016) they are going to start the first day of their anniversary as husband and wife.

Zaha & Rachel: “My husband and I are a shy couple especially when it comes to being in front of a camera. Inevitably, on our wedding day, we would want it to be perfectly documented and be the focus of their lenses. We could not be happier that we have picked Jamie and Johan as our photographers. Jamie is so meticulous with her shots and she knows exactly what she wants to capture while making us feel comfortable with it. Johan is a charming and funny guy, who never fails to make our bridal party laugh. My husband and I have never felt more comfortable in front of the cameras. My bridesmaids were also having a blast, the air was filled with their laughter and silly giggles throughout the day – those moments made the best photos.

During the reception dinner, the Stories team was far from intrusive when taking the shots that our guests did not even realise their photos were being taken, which is exactly what we were asked for! We have only gotten great feedbacks so far from our family and guests about the Stories team. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you!

When we contracted Stories team to be our wedding photographer, they gave us a detailed questionnaire to get to know us more as individuals and as a couple, as well as people and things that matter to us most. That was the moment we were felt reassured that we are in the hands of professionals, who genuinely want to document our big day the way we want it. We never regretted taking our time to carefully fill the details because everything we wrote in the questionnaire was clearly reflected in the final photos and they portrayed exactly how we are as a couple.”

Credits:
Photographers: Jamie, Johan & Jennifer
Wedding Ceremony & Reception: The Ritz-Carlton, KL
Wedding Planner & Decorations for Nikah: Stephen Foong
Groom’s Attire: Burlington Tailor (Reception) & Omar Ali (Nikah)
Wedding Gown: Celest Thoi (Tea Ceremony & Reception) and MimpiKita (Nikah)
Shoes: Florshiem (Groom) & Kate Mosella Custom Made Shoes (Bride)
Hair & Make Up: Iris
Cake: Scrummy Cake Design (Nikah – Bride’s Hantaran) & Elevete (Nikah – Groom’s Hantaran)
Videography: VIP Cinegraphy Studio

The post Chinese-Muslim Fusion Wedding: Zaha & Rachel appeared first on Wedding, portrait photography & cinematic films: Stories.my.

The post 8 Questions to ask your wedding photographer before hiring them appeared first on Wedding, portrait photography & cinematic films: Stories.my.

Some things just get better with age. They develop character. They become more endearing and turn into a true gem. That is how we like to think of our Kombi. And because she’s so special to us, we’d like you to get to know her a little better too.

She’s in excellent condition considering her age. To keep her looking young we’ve dressed her in bright blue, earning her the name Smurfette! She loves company and is most comfortable with not more than eight friends at a time. She also knows it’s not cool to arrive at a party all sweaty with messed up, wind-blown hair so she ensures you enjoy the ride with an air-conditioning unit fitted in all the right places. She can be a bit loud, but she’ll be the life of the party!

Due to Smurfette’s age, she has her very own driver for all her escapades. We also make sure she’s fueled up so she has the energy to last throughout your event! Even though we know how much she likes to party with new friends, as her guardians, we have set some boundaries for her own safety (and everyone else’s!). For example, she’s not allowed to attend functions beyond 200KM of Kuala Lumpur, much to her chagrin because she’s a real party girl. However, we feel longer journeys take a toll on her and we don’t think you’d appreciate a cranky party pooper.

Limitations aside, Smurfette has already been to quite a few events. She’s been spotted at pre-wedding shoots, ferried brides to their weddings and even played a role in corporate events around town. How’s that for an old grandma like her? She loves meeting new people so if you’d like to get acquainted with her, just get in touch with us. We’d love to set up a date for you.

Need more info about our kombi? Head on here.

The post Getting to know Smurfette, our prized VW Kombi! appeared first on Wedding, portrait photography & cinematic films: Stories.my.

This couple seems to be complete opposites – he is an extrovert, loves the outdoors, enjoying time with friends, and taking photos. She, on the other hand, prefers to cuddle up at home reading a book or watching light hearted romantic comedies. A bit like a yin and yang, seemingly opposite in some ways, but still sharing and holding the same principal values that are important to them namely family and friends.

The fact that they are opposites is what makes the relationship work. They make sure each other is grounded or at times flying high. They balance each other’s extremes well, be it work, or leisure. Each personality trait complements the other, and it only brings out best of each other.

We love how their personalities really shone through in this wedding, and how relaxed Amir looked as he said his vows (though we’re pretty sure he must have been nervous!). The pantun exchange was a really nice touch, and we love the candid moments caught on video. Watch their highlights here!

The first time they met… 

Halina: I did not realise it was a set up till months later, but Amir realised what was happening as our common friend kept nudging him to find out about what he thought of me. We only met up a couple months’ later, at a friend’s birthday event. The next day, he messaged me to ask about my New Year eve’s plans. I was surprised as to how he had my number, only to later realise that our common friend passed him my number without telling/asking me first! He invited me to meet with a group of friends for New Years eve, which i declined. However, at the last minute, i attended it in the end. That started the ball rolling and we had our “First” date on 1 January 2013. And here we are now :) .

Amir – I didn’t know it was a set up either, but got the hint during the course of dinner. I wasn’t really sure at first what I needed to do and since she was travelling for work a lot, it didn’t cross my mind to immediately ask her out. It was at a second meeting that I told her friends I’d be interested to date her. And they helped out during the NYE party at the friends house. It was till a few months later that we decided to seriously date, but we both had some hectic work schedules at the time. Our first movie date was “Oz the Great and Powerful”.
Though we don’t necessarily share a similar taste for music and movies all the time, but we both give each other our space and enjoy it doing things together.

Credits:
Videographers: The Stories Team (Chi Yin, Delvin, Nick)
Dinner Reception: KL Hilton
Wedding Gown: White and Lacy
Evening Gown: Amata Wedding Studio
Make up & hair: Jasmine Yoong
Shoes: Lewre and Nine West
Photographers: Funky Dali
Dinner Entertainment: Mosaic Entertainment
Wedding Planners: Sherly of Tie the Knot

Last year, we had the privilege of photographing many amazing couples – many of whom have ended up as friends. One of the greatest satisfactions we get as a photographer is being that connection – we help people connect with their emotions as they recall their joyous wedding occasion. So much love is present at all the weddings we have photographed – last year, we photographed all sorts of cultural weddings – from the traditional Chinese wedding to a modern beach wedding and even two middle eastern weddings.

Personally, today, I celebrate 10 years of marriage to my husband Alex Lam, who have been such an amazing pillar of support. It’s hard work to make a marriage flourish, but I thank God who helped nudge me in the right direction when I needed to change an attitude or swallow my pride at times. You can be in love with someone even more than the day you say your vows!

As you listen to the vows of all our clients, may you be touched and reminded that love is the greatest emotion of all.

The amazing thing about videos is that you can capture the emotions as it happened… the voice that chokes as she says her vows, the tears falling down the groom’s cheek or a small smile that turns into a big guffaw. It’s so special. It brings you back to that exact moment as it happened, and it is just immortalised. Years later, as you look back on your wedding video or film, it will bring you back to that precise moment.

This is the magic of filmmaking that drew me to it in the first place when I studied Film and Television 18 years ago. Not just because I can create stories, but that it had the power to connect people. I hope you will enjoy this reel compiled by Chi Yin, of wedding stories that we have created for our clients over the past 1-2 years. Filmed by so many talented videographers on our team. Thank you for all your hard work!

Wedding Video Showreel from Stories on Vimeo.

From the fun chip san leong games to the religious akad nikah ceremony, Zaha and Rachel’s fusion wedding was filled with laughter and tears. I love how the bride DIY-ed a tissue paper flower wall for her Chinese tea ceremony, which turned out gorgeous in the photos. The red contrasted so well with the white gown!

Zaha & Rachel: “Our advice to most couples is do not fuss over the small things, it is not worth going all Bridezilla throughout the wedding planning because it takes months and can be extremely overwhelming. This is especially true with the overflowing dream wedding inspiration on Pinterest and The Wedding Notebook. Do know for a fact that your wedding day will be one of the best days of your life no matter what you have picked for your theme, floral arrangements and even your dress! Just have FUN, I know we had the best time of our lives!

Everyone has a budget in mind when planning a wedding, the key is to prioritise on what matters to both of you most! We feel that less could be spent on decor by allocating a bigger budget for an amazing team of established wedding photographers – simply because they have the experience and creative skills to compose the best shots.”

Flashback to college 7 years ago. Zaha and Rachel were in the same class but never spoke until they were assigned the same team for a group project. Even then, we were merely acquaintances. But one day, Zaha showed up in class injured after a major car accident the week before. Being unable to write due to his injuries, Rachel offered to take notes for him until he was better (aaw!). They dated for 3 years before they decided to take things seriously.

Then on 16 Dec 2012 they officially became a couple when Zaha took Rachel to Langkawi for a random 1 day trip. 3 years later he proposed to Rachel in Thailand while they were watching the sunset on a sailboat. Now on their 4 year anniversary (16th Dec 2016) they are going to start the first day of their anniversary as husband and wife.

Zaha & Rachel: “My husband and I are a shy couple especially when it comes to being in front of a camera. Inevitably, on our wedding day, we would want it to be perfectly documented and be the focus of their lenses. We could not be happier that we have picked Jamie and Johan as our photographers. Jamie is so meticulous with her shots and she knows exactly what she wants to capture while making us feel comfortable with it. Johan is a charming and funny guy, who never fails to make our bridal party laugh. My husband and I have never felt more comfortable in front of the cameras. My bridesmaids were also having a blast, the air was filled with their laughter and silly giggles throughout the day – those moments made the best photos.

During the reception dinner, the Stories team was far from intrusive when taking the shots that our guests did not even realise their photos were being taken, which is exactly what we were asked for! We have only gotten great feedbacks so far from our family and guests about the Stories team. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you!

When we contracted Stories team to be our wedding photographer, they gave us a detailed questionnaire to get to know us more as individuals and as a couple, as well as people and things that matter to us most. That was the moment we were felt reassured that we are in the hands of professionals, who genuinely want to document our big day the way we want it. We never regretted taking our time to carefully fill the details because everything we wrote in the questionnaire was clearly reflected in the final photos and they portrayed exactly how we are as a couple.”

Credits:
Photographers: Jamie, Johan & Jennifer
Wedding Ceremony & Reception: The Ritz-Carlton, KL
Wedding Planner & Decorations for Nikah: Stephen Foong
Groom’s Attire: Burlington Tailor (Reception) & Omar Ali (Nikah)
Wedding Gown: Celest Thoi (Tea Ceremony & Reception) and MimpiKita (Nikah)
Shoes: Florshiem (Groom) & Kate Mosella Custom Made Shoes (Bride)
Hair & Make Up: Iris
Cake: Scrummy Cake Design (Nikah – Bride’s Hantaran) & Elevete (Nikah – Groom’s Hantaran)
Videography: VIP Cinegraphy Studio

Some things just get better with age. They develop character. They become more endearing and turn into a true gem. That is how we like to think of our Kombi. And because she’s so special to us, we’d like you to get to know her a little better too.

She’s in excellent condition considering her age. To keep her looking young we’ve dressed her in bright blue, earning her the name Smurfette! She loves company and is most comfortable with not more than eight friends at a time. She also knows it’s not cool to arrive at a party all sweaty with messed up, wind-blown hair so she ensures you enjoy the ride with an air-conditioning unit fitted in all the right places. She can be a bit loud, but she’ll be the life of the party!

Due to Smurfette’s age, she has her very own driver for all her escapades. We also make sure she’s fueled up so she has the energy to last throughout your event! Even though we know how much she likes to party with new friends, as her guardians, we have set some boundaries for her own safety (and everyone else’s!). For example, she’s not allowed to attend functions beyond 200KM of Kuala Lumpur, much to her chagrin because she’s a real party girl. However, we feel longer journeys take a toll on her and we don’t think you’d appreciate a cranky party pooper.

Limitations aside, Smurfette has already been to quite a few events. She’s been spotted at pre-wedding shoots, ferried brides to their weddings and even played a role in corporate events around town. How’s that for an old grandma like her? She loves meeting new people so if you’d like to get acquainted with her, just get in touch with us. We’d love to set up a date for you.

Need more info about our kombi? Head on here.

The studio was abuzz with excitement over a styled shoot we were doing in collaboration with The Wedding Scoop, Shaun Teo Creations and Marble & Co. It was exciting because this was a Unicorn Galaxy – Themed Wedding Dessert Table styled shoot!

When the unicorn cake was brought out, everyone let out “oohs” and “ahhs” in unison. It was so pretty! And the cupcakes, cake pops, chocolates and pudding cups were equally as mesmerizing. The folks from Marble & Co went to work with laying out the lavish dessert table with all the goodies while we snapped away and videoed the whole process.

Nobody could bring themselves to cut into the unicorn cake but the honour went to the man who made the masterpiece, Shaun. We can testify that the cake tasted as good as it looked! It was such a fun session which was brought together by The Wedding Scoop, and we think a dessert table like this at your wedding would look stunning!

Credits:

Concept, Co-production and Exclusive Publisher: The Wedding Scoop
Cakes and Desserts: Shaun Teo Creations
Concept, Styling and Flowers: Marble & Co
Photography and Videography: Stories.my – International Wedding & Portrait Photography

Interestingly, we got to know Mohd Faez’ mother, Tengku Puteri Zahariah through one of our photographers, Jennifer who sometimes moonlights as an Uber driver. We were hired as Tengku’s personal videography team for the dinner reception at Sime Darby Convention Centre. She was crucial in planning the entire wedding dinner reception, and naturally, wanted everything captured meticulously. The team met the couple on the wedding day itself and we’re pleased to be part of such a beautiful occasion.

Credits:
Videography Team: Chi Yin, Choo Cherk, Joel, assisted by Bernice
Dinner Reception: Sime Darby Convention Centre

We were honoured to be invited as a wedding vendor to The St Regis Kuala Lumpur’s Weddings Redefined event recently. We had booths next to big names such as The Photoz, Manggis Production, Reeka Temor, and Kayangan Gallery. We were stunned with the decorations done by the St Regis wedding team, their unique 270 degree video mapping screen spanning almost the entire ballroom, and of course, the exquisite bridal collection by Dato’ Sri Bernard Chandran. Whether you are the whimsical type, a lover of all things vintage, or a contemporary bride that shuns white, you can find it here in his first bridal collection.

The ballroom was transformed into a fashion show runway. Below, a photo with our studio manager, Yu Ming at our humble little booth.

A photo with old friends from the industry – the amazing people behind Manggis (Fauzee & Nazura) and the Photoz (Zung).

Check out that 270 degree screen, for people who want something really unique for their wedding.

Credits:

Photographer: Jamie, assisted by Bing Ee
Stories.my team who assisted on that day: Yu Ming & Bernice
Location: The St Regis Kuala Lumpur

The celebration of marriage is but one little chapter in the tapestry of life. Each story is different but every bit as meaningful as the story of the stranger next to you. It is what makes our lives so interesting to others! When it comes to the chapter leading up to the happily-ever-after part, it is only natural to desire that the heart and essence of every second of the wedding be frozen in time.

This is where the bride and groom come to expect great things from their wedding photographers. But the biggest cause of disappointments when it comes to expectations results from a lack of communication. We’re here to set the record straight and ensure the expectations are reasonable.

1. Getting Ready Photos

We suggest giving us at least an hour to photograph the bride and groom as they separately get ready for the wedding. We like to add some detailed shots of the dress, shoes, cufflinks, rings and invitations. It’s also a good time to capture individual shots once the bride or groom is all ready, plus some photos with close family members and the bridal party.

2. Couple Photos

It can get pretty hectic especially with a tight schedule to follow, but making time for some intimate couple shots is not to be missed! We understand that people have come from near and far to celebrate this joyous occasion with you, and that there’s just too much happening. In the midst of the chaos, don’t forget that your wedding day is the beginning of a lifetime together and having some “alone” time will be good for the both of you too.

3. Dinner Photos

With a few hundred guests at wedding receptions these days it’s hard to ensure that every guest is photographed. One point to note is that people don’t like being photographed while they are putting food in their mouths. Your wedding photographers will usually look out for those who are happily socializing and enjoying the moment; they aren’t interested in those who are glued to their phones.

Communication is a key aspect prior to your wedding. It is necessary to run through the day’s itinerary with your wedding photographer. By having healthy expectations of your wedding day photography, both you and your photographer will be set for success and you’ll have a treasure trove of wonderful memories to commemorate this special chapter.