Articles by alvinleong

I am finally back to blogging!

A few weeks (or months ) ago, Swinburne’s Photomedia and Design Club organised a photography workshop at Kubah National Park, and I have had the honour of being their speaker and to conduct for this wonderful event. It was a beautiful morning and after a hearty breakfast with my staff, we drove up to the national park to find a big group of enthusiastic students already waiting.

We started the morning with an ice-breaking session, and I asked the participants some questions about their interests, aims of today’s workshop and level of photography so I know where to start and deliver a workshop where everyone can benefit optimally.

After knowing some of their backgrounds, I gave them a brief presentation about composition, camera settings and the basic knowledge of photography before I let them off to have their own little adventure shooting around the national park. Lunch was provided by the students themselves and after lunch, we had a fun session reviewing the shots. It’s comforting to see a group of enthusiastic student who is so willing to learn, it makes my job so much richer as a photographer and educator.

Here are some of the shots the students, or should I say, photographers, took:

The afternoon was spent shooting two models from Swinburne, who volunteered themselves for the session. I taught them about various angles to best compliment different facial shapes, and after shooting the models, we reviewed the photos. Time seems to run faster when you’re having fun and we didn’t manage to finish all the shots as much as we loved to.

To end the day, we had some group photos taken, and a student suggested a brilliant idea of taking a group shot of all our cameras.

Here’s some of the participants, as some of them went to the loo to ease themselves!

Overall, it was a really fun and fulfilling day, and I drove home that day humbled to be a part of the workshop and to have the honour of sharing my knowledge and experiences with a group of enthusiastic students who are so eager to learn. I look forward to another session in the future!

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Hello all,

I will be participating in the “Before I Do” bridal fair organised by Crowne Plaza Riverside Hotel tomorrow, 15 Jun 2008. This ONE DAY only event will start at 11am and finish at 7pm. It’s at the Sarawak Chamber Grand Ballroom, located on their 3rd floor.

Come and meet us there, and have a chat with me about your wedding plans!

See you all there!

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I met both Michael and Tabby at my hotel lobby when I did a shoot for one of my clients in KL. We discussed about their wedding plans and what type of images they like.

They also shared with me on how they’ve met and their long distance relationship for years… I really admired them as long distance relationship is NEVER easy.

Mike,  grew up in the UK. He is a British- Chinese, while Tabby’s from KL Malaysia. Mike moved to Malaysia not long ago, and work as an Accountant, while Tabby run the King Pie business in KLCC.

Their wedding was held at an awesome lifestyle restaurant in Bangsar KL. (I love the place) They had converted the whole restaurant for their Wedding Holy Matrimony. Dinner reception was held at The Westin, Kuala Lumpur.

I would like to share some of the photos from this cheerful couple to all of you…

That’s Keith Kee the designer, he was there to make sure the gown’s fit and make up were done up to the bride’s standard.

This shot was taken when Tabby looked at the mirror, just to check on the final details of her make up, and I saw this beautiful morning light behind her. It was 7.15am in Kuala Lumpur.

Then I asked Tabby to turn over and look at me, she gave me this beautiful smile.

This shot was not posed. I love the way she hugged her mum, full of expression.

A Western Wedding mixed with Asian Culture. They were playing some obstacle for the Groom’s party.

This shot were taken just outside Tabby’s home. Beautiful backlighting!

I love this moment, the instant when the flower girl walked in, and she gave Mike a good hug!

One of my favourite shot..

Then I thought of trying some unusual angle.. i.e. shooting through the guesses… Nailed her expression as she looked at her friends..

Dad’s eye contact with the groom.. priceless..

I love this moment, a priceless shot. This was not posed, shots like this cannot be posed. Its filled with emotions, love.. The moment I saw it, I thought to myself, that’s it.. This is the moment! What an awecome moment.. A shot that explains it all.. WE ARE IN LOVE!

As I was shooting their first dance, the three gentlemen at the back were singing Lionel Ritchie’s “TRULY”, they sang in acapella, that moment gave me the greatest joy to be a Wedding Photographer. Words cannot describe my feelings.. I was sooo touched by that moment, that instance, that time. When I was shooting their dance, I saw Tabby whispered something to Mike’s ears. Ah! I thought to myself.. This is ABSOLUTELY BEAUTIFUL!! With the awesome song filled the whole restaurant, the dance, the couple - priceless.

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It was a cool Saturday morning, a lot of people would still tuck warmly in their bed! I reached Swinburne at 8am and my crews were busy setting up a mini studio there up on the stage.

The turnout was good, considering that, it was a rainy Saturday morning.

I love to share what I knew - my experience and my passion to people who are interested to know. As long as your love is in photography, we are all in the same boat..

Looking at all the students faces that morning gave me that joy that cannot be described in words!

Besides going straight into photography, I about shared about my experience in life and what brought me into photography. I can see and feel their enthusiasm… They have asked me a lot of questions and I am glad that I have managed to answer them all.

I also told them about a Photography Workshop which I am going to organise for the students. Overall, the event was so great. Shared some slideshows with them and also demostrate some studio shooting with them. Got some of the more advance listener to try! haha..

Thank you Ann and Annabelle for being my model that day. I will send to you some of your photos soon.

Here’s some photos to share with you all.

Serena is concentrating hard..

one of my video crew.. also my friend, Munan

Munan doing some angle shot.

Vivi, from Indonesia.. I like her expression, she is watching the slideshows..

Question time by Keen Chiek..

and this is Steven…

Jin Thai is smiling away.. what’s in your mind Jin?

Annabelle who was one of our model that day..

Our group photo session.. hip hip hoorah!

some of the participants were inside still munching away the nice sandwiches.. Thank you, yes its nice, I like it..

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I am so excited, I have not done the poster for this workshop which gonna happen tomorrow. Initially, I wanted to do a nice poster for this, and then before they open up the seat for sale, I heard it was a SOLD OUT. So there is no need to do the posters anymore.

Well, the workshop will start tomorrow and I will post more photos after event. Can’t wait.. so excited!

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They walked into my studio gallery early 2006 and wanted to take their engagement shots. We have arranged some date for the shots in 2006 and later Jee called to postpone due to his work schedule. Initially Jee and Jackie wanted to have their engagement shots taken in February 2006 but was later postpone to somewhere mid August 2006. When the time comes, they postponed it to the end of year 2006. Finally they changed their mind again and told me that its not longer necessary to do the engagement shots. They are getting MARRIED!

Jee works as a Web developer and a partner in Madtech, while Jackie works at an IT based company in Kuching. I have got my website developed by them. They have done a good job for my site. I have engaged them to work on my site since 2006. I have always wanted to self update my site with the new photos, and upload them whenever I feel like it, however, they are still working on this, and I have no choice but to update it on my blog.. So Jee, if you are reading this, keep it up and get it moving!!!

Somehow, due to our numerous meetings for my website, and also their wedding preparations, we became good friends.. Jee and Jackie, I missed the lunch we had together! Wanna do lunch one of these days?

Jackie later introduced her eldest brother, Chris to me. Chris who works in Singapore also engaged our professional services! Chris is married to his beautiful bride, Celine from Singapore.

Thank you Jackie, Jee, Chris and Celine!

I will leave you to the photos below which says everything!

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I know I have been missing from blogging for a while… and I am back!!! April has been a wonderful month for me, been away to 4 different cities for Wedding Shoot! More traveling for the next half of the year.. Wedding season is coming.. and I am opening my booking for wedding photography for next year.

The talk in Swinburne University was awesome, I had received a lot of good feedback from the students. I was also been told that the workshop which I am going to conduct in by the end of May has sold out in a matter of just a few days after they had opened it for sales!

Good sign hey!

Talking about Swinburne University, I have been doing their commercial shot for several years now, and every assignment was a challenge for me! New concepts were discussed.. New ideas were shared, thousand of shots were captured! The chosen ones are the shots that best describe what they wanted to portray their University in the International arena. The talents that they used were a mixture of their International/overseas and local students.. The fun part was to capture their laughter! I shall never forget our time spent with their students there… It was a wonderful experience..

Commercial shoot is far different from Wedding Photography.. it’s challenging in its own way. Here’s some shots that I had done before, and I am sure many students and parents had seen those images in newspaper advertisements and also in their course guide.

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I have been invited to give a talk this Saturday at Swinburne University of Technology this Saturday by their Photomedia and Design Club. I look forward to this talk so much as previously I had being given  the opportunity to do some talk about Wedding Photography and Photography itself at Limkokwing University and St Thomas’ Secondary School, and that was a while ago..

I will also be conducting a Photography Workshop for the students in Swinburne University this end of May, which the date has not been fixed. This will be limited to the first 40 students who signed up.

See you soon!

ps: will post some photos soon..

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Hey everyone, I will be in Miri from 19 - 21 April and then to Kuala Lumpur from 22 - 25 April. Let me know if you guys wanna meet up for coffee.. haha.. I know, I know, I have been MIA from my blog for a while now, I have been receiving emails and SMS’s on this issue.. so sorry, I will update very soon.

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I have just got back from all the trips for this month. In fact landed about 1.5 hour ago.. Kota Kinabalu is a very nice place! I had free time this afternoon, so we went to Manukan Island and did some snorkeling and jet skiing off Sutera Magellan Boat Club..

Time for bed.. Will post some photos soon!

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Hey friends..

I shall be in KK this weekend, to cover a wedding in Shangri-La Tanjung Aru. Anyone who wish to meet me and discuss about their wedding photography or even catch up for coffee.. can email; info@alvinleong.com or call or SMS me at +60 12 889 2799 for a meet up!

Please find below are by brief itinerary;

KK from 14-16 March 2008 (Shangri-la Tanjung Aru)

Singapore 20-24 March 2008 (Hilton Singapore)

KK again 28 March - 1st April 2008 (Shangri-la Tanjung Aru and Pacific Sutera)

See you!

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Trish came into the studio one day with a bunch of her friends from Miri. She has this bubbly and fun-loving attitude that makes you smile when you see her!

Trish grew up in Canada and met her husband, Steve, over there. They dated for a couple of years before Steve went down on his knee and the rest they say is history. They had a beautiful wedding with guests flying in from all around the world. Trish wore a Vera Wang’s veil at the church and they had a traditional tea ceremony after that. The wedding reception banquet was held at Hilton’s poolside.

Overall, I must say it was a really beautiful wedding, filled with beautiful people, and a really happy and fun couple!

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I received an email from Mark one day and we arranged for a meet up. He was originally from Johor but grew up in Melbourne, Australia and is now an engineer with the Victorian State Government. He came with a huge notepad with heaps of questions apparently from, Zara who was then his fiance! The second time we met up, we confirmed the final details and once that’s done, we headed for some beers yay! - Aussie way to chill out.

Then came the BIG day, the wedding. It was a BEAUTIFUL beach wedding, and Mark got three rooms for us! - my Assistants and myself. Zara was really easy to shoot as she is very playful and expressive. She has all these vibes that make her outstanding and all her pictures shine!

The sun was very co-operative as well that day, and I must say, it’s a dream wedding! The set up, the bride and groom, the chemistry between everyone was just extraordinary! Everyone present flew in from overseas just for the very special occasion. I must say it was a great pleasure doing the shoot, and also a very rewarding experience.

To Mark and Zara, I wish you both eternal love and happiness, and a wonderful journey ahead!

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I remembered when I was young boy I read on the newspaper how a town called Simanggang has changed its name to Sri Aman. I remembered then, the man behind all these changes was Tun Abdul Rahman Ya’kub. ( ‘Tun’ is the highest title conferred by His Majesty the Yang Di Pertuan Agong) He was the The Chief Minister of Sarawak (1970-1981) and later he became the Tuan Yang Terutama Yang Di Pertua Negeri, the Governor of Sarawak from the year 1981 to 1985.

That afternoon a few days before his 80th Birthday, I was commissioned to shoot the portrait of Tun at his residence. When I was there, my 3 crews were setting up the portable studio and lightings at his living room, I went to Tun’s library to look for his daughter and discussed on how the shot was going to take place.

In his living room, there were also reporters from Bernama waiting to interview him in conjunction of his 80th Birthday on the 3rd Jan 08. After all the setting up has been done, Tun came out and I got him to change into some blue coloured shirt in order to match the backdrop.

After the shoot, we were invited to a short afternoon tea with the yummy ‘durian’ cake and tea. All my crews and I, enjoyed that afternoon, and we exchanged short conversations with Tun before we left his residence.

Will post more shots of the birthday event held at The Hilton Grand Ballroom.

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Hey everyone!!

Happy New Year to you all!!!

Wishing you all, PEACE in your HEART, Health in your BODY, Wealth in your CAREER, Joy in your HOME, Commitment and Love in your RELATIONSHIPS, Fulfilment in your ENDEAVOURS, a Rainbow after each STORM, and Contentment in LIFE.

May all always be blessed with these priceless intangible treasures. Blessed a Fruitful and Meaningful New Year in 2008!

Alvin Leong
Sent via BlackBerry® wireless device from Maxis Mobile.

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Check out the current issue of the The HIPLIST, Celebrating the Art of Malaysia’s Wedding Photographers! which is on sale now in the major bookstores and newsstand! We are being listed in these niche publications which is dedicated to Wedding Photography!

Quote from The Hiplist, “We have in the past few years witnessed a proliferation of the wedding photography segment of the industry. New entrants now vie for a ‘slice of the pie’ so to speak together with long established names in the market. Fortunately though, the market is still sufficiently large and capable of supporting the increasing number of wedding photographers.

As a publisher however, we feel that our direction for the future will not include developing another run-of-the-mill publication to rival the traditional bridal magazines. Indeed even our sister publication weddingsmalaysia does not compete directly, as it distinguishes itself from them by offering what the traditional wedding publications do not offer. What we will develop however are niche publications – ‘target-specific’ titles that will complement weddingsmalaysia. These niche publications will focus on specific segments of the wedding industry where each title will be entirely dedicated to a particular element of a wedding. We believe that these specialist titles will encourage couples to delve further into the service providers represented, learn more about their business philosophies, their styles and ultimately get to know them better before making an informed decision on whom to appoint.

The first of these niche publications is dedicated to Wedding Photography and it is on this premise that THE HIPLIST – WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHERS has been published in September 2007.”

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Two months ago, I posted one of our beautiful couples Carlin and Sinyi whom I had taken their wedding shot in Australia.. and now my team  has come out with their beautiful albums. I have many people writing to me on how our album layout look like.. our design team have come out with this beautiful album..

These are how the pages gonna look like..

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This is the restaurant that is situated in Jalan Padungan, and they served very nice western food and awesome cheesecakes! Its a corner shop, you won’t missed out the place especially with the large Green and Red signboard!

This place is great for private dining as well as they have a private room on the upper floor. I love food shot because it makes me go hungry!

I was commissioned to do the shot for Thomas, the proprietor of TOM’s who is also the Chef!

The gear I used then was, Nikon D100 DSLR, 80-200mm AFS f2.8 Nikkor Lens, 2 Hensel flash tubes, with 90X90cm Hensel soft box, 30X30cm translucent diffuser and round white reflector .

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Last weekend, I was commissioned to shoot the lighting of Christmas Trees and fireworks at the Hilton in Kuching. It’s the time of the year that most people around the world are slowing down and spend more time with their families and love ones.. This is also the time of the year that we bid farewell to 2007 and welcome 2008! I haven’t had the time yet to look back and see what have I achieved this year. I want to spend some time during the holiday season to work on this.. as it’s a very important part of my life in achieving my goals but.. all these come back into taking action..

Questions on how to strive to be a better person and what can I contribute to the society and the world remains a constant struggle!

Shots that were captured to mark the festive season 2007 for Hilton Kuching.

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Sorry everyone.. I have been very busy lately and missed out on updating my blog… The last entry here was dated 25 Oct.. So sorry… I have received comments and emails from readers asking about some updates.. some wrote, “why no update” or “look forward to your update soon” some wrote, “Alvin, are u in town?” I am fine and just busy meetings with datelines.. sorry everyone..

The month of November and December are mostly filled with weddings in my agenda. However, I still managed to do some commercial work for various companies.. Among one of them is the Sarawak Convention Bureau or known as SCB. The will bid for conventions and bring them to Sarawak and they are involved in mostly the logistic planing of the group.

Would like to share with you all on the shot which I did for their commercial. Its the local Cat Dance shot.

And, we were waiting for one fine day (as its the rainy season now) to shoot another marketing shot for SCB. They wanted shots of their Chairman, Dato Seri Dr Muhammad Leo Michael Toyad Abdullah playing kite with their Chief Executive Officer, Ms Jill Henry. It was a fun day but poor Dato Sri and Jill, they had to run numerous times down the hill and up the hill for me to get “the shot”..

Dato Sri Dr Muhammad Leo Michael Toyad held various portfolio in the ministerial and the assistant ministerial position in Malaysia including the federal Tourism Minister and the Deputy Foreign Minister post.

Jill who used to be the General Manager of the Perth Convention Bureau in Western Australia, Australia, who was responsible for securing the International Congress and Convention Association’s Best Marketing Award a record two times. As the Bureau’s inaugural CEO, her top priority is establishing a team approach to bring clients, tourism and convention industry suppliers and government together to win bids and stage successful conventions.

Here’s the shot…

Once again, I apologise for being silence for a while.. and for now I am Back!! haha..

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I have been using BlackBerry for a while now and everyday is a learning process for me!!

2 weeks ago I learned on how to post from my BB and it’s so much fun! I can post almost anywhere I want.. and share on almost anything that inspire me there and then!

Thanks to Alex, STM who shared with me on the usage of free BB messenger.. All files regardless of its size can be transferred in BB messenger for free! And of course CHAT for free!

And with the comments in my blog - Keep them rolling in! I love reading your comments, its sent directly into my BlackBerry.. So anywhere I go, I get to read your inspiring comments!! Thank you all!

Today, I found out again, from STM that I can install Facebook in my BB!! This is indeed great! Without much delay, I got it in, and immediately, I am able to receive messages, write on the wall, poke, shoot photo on my BB then post it, invite friends, view status of friends, view albums and all alerts- notifications delivered in my BB!

This wonderful! Can’t help it now, more reasons to spend more time on my BB!
Sent via BlackBerry® wireless device from Maxis.

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I met Carlin when he was working in Jaring a couple of years back in Kuching. Then in May this year, I received a phone call from Australia. This nice gentleman called me from Western Australia and wanted to find out more about my outdoor location shoot over there. I was surprised that you have moved over to Australia, Carlin!

Carlin is the only son of a very prominent photographer in Malaysia, who authored 4 hard cover pictorial books. I knew his dad when I started photography many years ago! I can still remember how he shared with me his knowledge on medium format camera. His passion on photography just blew me away! Sinyi is an Accountant who works with one of the big accounting firms in Perth. I met Sinyi on the day of the shoot itself! So it was a day for me to find out more about this beautiful couple. It does help in the line of work I am doing!

Well, the shoot lasted the whole day, and again it was freezing cold out there especially when we did the shot near the lighthouse. The wind was so strong, and we have problems fixing Sinyi’s veil.

Carlin and Sinyi, it was fun and I enjoyed myself working with the both of you. I will always remember the mini picnic lunch we had in Hyde Park and the Greek lady who exchanged small conversation with both of you while I searched for the toilet!

The shoot brings me closer to the both of you and I look forward to seeing you again! Both Carlin and Sinyi are working in Australia at the moment and I can see that they are very happy with their new lifestyle!

I like the setting of this old Cathedral..

Sunset at Cottlesloe Beach.

The shot below was captured in South Mole, Fremantle. It was very windy that day and the best place to place the Bride and Groom was behind the wind direction, and happen to be the best place! Got the entire shot of the lighthouse. I like the blue sky.

In Hyde Park…

The maple tree with its new leaves..

As we were walking back to the car, I saw this little sparrow trying to attack the Kukubara, poor thing! so i pointed up my camera and nailed this shot!

The backdrop - City of Perth, capital of Western Australia..

This is on the location in the University of Notre Dame in Fremantle..

We rushed to this location, the sun was setting so fast!

Overlooking Indian Ocean at Cottlesloe Beach, Western Australia..

The Indian Ocean, sunset at Cottlesloe Beach.
To me it was freezing out there, at 12 deg and strong wind!

Wild flower at Hyde Park, its Spring Time! Yeah!

The Old Boat Shed along Mounts Bay Road.

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I have been missing in action from the gym for nearly 2 years now, and
everytime I want to go, there will bound to have 101 reasons stopping me from going.

So this morning before going to work, I made my determination to go… I
told myself nothing can stop me! I have been feeling so unhealthy and unfit!

So after 25 mins of workout at the treadmill and some weights, I really sweat!  I was in there for 1 hour and
35 mins. Yeah! I am so proud of myself..and I know I feel so good after the
exercise! YES!

I will make it a point to go every morning! Get my healthy lifestyle back!

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Yes, got this mobile phone a few weeks ago and I want to fully utilise it’s function so I am testing to write a post for my blog from my BlackBerry Curve to see if it works! Hopefully it will..after all the settings are done on the server.

Take care everyone and to all my Muslim friends, Selamat Hari Raya, Maaf Zahir Dan Batin!

Alvin Leong

Sent via BlackBerry from Maxis.

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Woke up at 11am. and went for “Yum Cha” at Northbridge. After the brunch, we went to Fremantle. It’s public holiday on the 1st Oct - Queen’s Birthday. Fremantle is a port city situated approximately 20 kms south west of Perth. The City is famous for its cosmopolitan atmosphere with strong Italian influences! If you love nice food, good cappucino this is the place!

Its a must to visit when you visit Western Australia.

Some photos to share with you all.

Sidewalk cafe..

(ALL SHOTS WERE TAKEN FROM MY MOBILE PHONE)

The famous Fremantle Market..

Indian Ocean taken from Fremantle..

This is not Fremantle. Its some wild flowers at the road side in King’s Park.

I like this. Kid’s bungee..

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This is the story that I have to tell because it’s amazing! I came to know James from Swinburne University. What started off as professional relationship 4 years ago has florished into good friends! We have been dealing a lot about corporate photography for the Uni. I knew Carol to be a very kind, courteous and her strong character really impressed me!

One day, from my usual lunch appointment with James, he spoke about his wedding and his plan to get married overseas. This was approximately 7 months ago! I felt so happy for both of them.

The day has arrived, 30th September 2007. The wedding is in Perth, Western Australia. Its the perfect time to hold a garden wedding around this time as the weather is nice and cool! With the help of their friend, Alex and Ben, they have put up a great deal of effort in making the day run so smooth.

I have reached Carol’s place at 9.15am. I could hear the laughter from outside the apartment! One thing I love my job is I got to be with happy people!

The wedding was held in Blue Water Restaurant in Applecross, Western Australia. Both family and friends came from all over the world.. to witness the union of two wonderful people!

Carol and James, congratulations to both of you and may you lead a wonderful life together!

Carol with Dad..

Nikki’s baby..

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I arrived in Perth, the capital of Western Australia at 9.05 pm on the 28th Sept. After browsing through the duty free shop in the Airport in Perth, I bought, 2 bottles of Rum, and a bottle of Gin. Was very quick through the custom and quarantine as I have nothing to declare!

Woke up at 8.30am the next day and went to City to drop my brother off work in West Perth. He is with the travel agent, selling outbound air ticket, and holiday packages..

* Shot were taken with my BlackBerry 8300 Curve

Then, I took the car and drove to visit my James and Carol who stayed in Drakes Apartments in Mill Point Road in South Perth. After visiting them, I went to Hungry Jacks, (known as Burger King anywhere else except Australia) and got myself a whopper meal. Took away the whopper meal and drove the car to the Swan River at Mill Point Road and had my breakfast! This is what I missed a lot when I was in Malaysia. Also when I was a student here, I used to eat by the river, meat pie, yum yum! sausage rolls!

The temperature is so mild, approx. 14 degrees and munching my whopper while enjoying the scenery of City.

* Shot were taken with my BlackBerry 8300 Curve

While, sitting there having my breakfast and enjoying the beautiful view of the city, 2 sea gulls came to me, I dislike them! They are waiting to be fed which I refused! If you gonna give, be prepared for the whole group of 30 birds surrounding you! haha!

And was walking back to the car and saw this nice wild flowers on the roadside, I thought to myself, yea! its spring now..

Sorry for the soft image as it was taken from my phone.. BlackBerry 8300

It was nice driving around Perth that day, and I saw an accident, which I think its pretty bad as there were fire trucks, police and ambulance.

These were on the way one of the Highways. I just hope and pray that he or she will be ok…

I passed by a fish and tackle shop, and took this photo, while I stopped at the red light! I want to take up deep sea fishing soon.. it might be a good idea to have a look at the rods and reels.. Emm.. Will start this hobby probably next year..

Later in the evening, I was invited by James and Carol for dinner with their family and friends in Capriccio Italian Restaurant. Its a little cossy Italian Restaurant in Northbridge. The food there is yummy and of course its authentic! We had Supreme Pizza, Spagetti Marinara, Spagetti Cabonara, Salads, wines and the lot!

Got back about 9.04pm as my parking ticket expires by then. Most of their guesses also leave by then. I will have an early start for Carol and James’ Wedding the next day! 30 Sept.

*** all the shots here are taken from my BlackBerry 8300 Curve

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Malaysia Airlines is bloody amazing! Delayed again.. I suppose to depart Kuching at 11.10am flight from Kuching on the 28th Sept, and arrive in Singapore at 12.40pm for my connecting flight to Perth, Australia at 3.50pm the same day. Initially I thought of booking Air Asia to Johor, and my travel agent advised me not to as she is worried that Air Asia might be delayed and its risky for my connecting flight to Australia.

Listened to them, I paid 4 times more for my flight from Kuching direct to Singapore and used MAS instead. All I can say is I am very very dissapointed in Malaysia Airlines!!! Guys if you all have the chance, don’t use Malaysia Airlines! Upon checking in for my 11.10am flight, the agent in the airport told me that your aircraft has been “retime” to 12 noon. I was annoyed, telling her that its not “retime” its delayed! They wanted it to sound better,  but its still late!

I was a bit worried for my connecting flight, which will be leaving at 15.50 hrs that afternoon. But working out of the timing, departing at 12noon and  arriving in Singapore at 1.30pm which is not too bad, I still have time for a stroll at Changi Airport.

I was at the departure lounge at 11.20am and saw the aircraft arrive at 11.30pm. I thought to myself. Good, it should be on time then.. should be able to leave at 12 noon! yay!

Waiting, waiting and finally they made the call for boarding.. at 12noon.. which is not too bad.. seated in the plane at 12.10pm, buckle my seat belt. Waited again, and at 12.30pm the aircraft, still not moving.. and finally at 12.45pm, the Captain made an annoucement, “This is Captain Chew Speaking, on behalf of Malaysia Airlines, we apologise for the delay in the late arrival of this aircraft from Kota Kinabalu” ok I thought, now get it moving!!! as I am dead worry that I will miss my connecting flight! He continued, “At the moment, the aircraft is experiencing some problem with the External Power, and our Engineering team is working on it, we apologise for the inconvenience caused!” he continued, “we will be leaving as soon as they solve the problem”

My goodness, there is no commitment on the departing time from here.. and its was 12.55pm. In my mind, I was working the on the time, if the aircraft were to leave at 1 pm, then we shall arrive in Singapore at 2.30pm its will be very very rush for my connecting flight.. at 3.50pm, need to take the luggage, and check out, pass the custom and check in again, (as this is different airlines I am using)

After the cold sweat and heart attacks! finally the captain announced, “Cabin crew, cross check all doors” Phew! Sigh! it was 1.10pm and the aircraft took off at 1.15pm and landed in Singapore at 2.45pm. I have 1 hour to, take my luggage from the conveyor belt, go through the custom in Singapore, rush to the next terminal, check in, and board the plane, all in less than ONE HOUR. This is again very subjective, it depends on whether the next airline’s gate is still open for me!

I ran and reached the other terminal at 3pm, check in, and board the aircraft at 3.20pm, the moment I step into the aircraft, the Cabin Crew, closed the aircraft door and the plane reverse! I hate this very much! I am always on time, and I missed all the stroll that I love so much in Changi Airport, all I knew was,  running across these nice outlets of shops! Again, Malaysia Airlines, a lot of people have been complaining on your punctuality, why can’t the Senior Management act on it! Its so so common these days!

Met my group of friends in the aircraft, already seated in the plane, asked me Alvin, why so late, “I thought you were taking MAS, ( they took Air Asia to JB) I told them the bloody MAS delayed again! They said, “Phew! luckily Air Asia is on time!” and they joke with me, “Haha! you paid so much more and this is happening!!??, asked you to take Air Asia with us, and you refused “

I arrived in Perth around 9.05pm from my flight via Singapore. The flight from Singapore to Perth is on time. No doubt about it, that is why you see the Airlines in Singapore is progressing on the upward trend, well, the airlines started together as a company - MSA, they splited and one company is making its mark above most airlines in the world, went through all the extra miles, well, MAS, is still struggling! Look at the difference! I suppose it’s run by idiots! Wake up and act on it! All my trips with MAS- 95% of it has been delayed! This is a genuine customer feedback!

For my trip back to Kuching, I am booked on Silk Air, a subsidiary of Singapore Airlines. Will see how is the service!

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The last time we did a make over was briefly more than 2 and half years ago with The Sarawak Tribune, under the programme, “Bold and Beautiful”. Initially we started with a few professional partners dealing with hairstylist, boutique and image consultant under the programme “Looking Your Best”. This programme however has been discontiued.

A few weeks ago, the thought of bringing the ‘makeover’ programme came to me again as I thought it would be fun and our 1st model who participate in this, is Samantha Poh. She is also a friend of mine. So we took the before shot of her and then our in-house make up artist Carol, did wonders on her look.

Samantha Poh is a Law student at SEGI College Kuching. She was born and raised in Kuching and has resided there for over 20 years. As an only child for a decade, Samantha spent most of her time by herself learning things on her own. In order to please her parents, Samantha chose a future concerning science. She entered the science stream for acceptance. Eventually, she realized that science really wasn’t at all for her. Samantha told her teacher she wanted to study mass communication during her last year at school. Her relatives found the idea absurd and tried persistently to change her perceptive. So what was left of her gave in and said “What about law?”

From then on, she has learned liberty in her books and is prepared to continue fighting for more. Samantha thinks very highly of those who live their lives to the fullest. Samantha idolizes John Goddard and spends her leisurely hours blogging, cooking or baking, going for a 30 minute jog and watching television. She enjoys dining to her satisfaction and also wishes to travel around the world. Another interest she has is to take up a second degree in time to come. Samantha sees the world as a competitive place to survive in and that it is important to make a mark, to contribute to the world before one departs.

Here’s are some shots of Sam. This is the shot we did when she just came in to our studio.

The “Before” shot..

The “After” shot…

the different look..

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It’s the time of the year again, that I am organising the Outdoor Wedding Shoot in Perth Western Australia; Springtime in Perth. The famous Araluen Botanica Garden, which is located in the deep jarrah valley of the Darling Range of Western Australia. Located 35 kms south east of Perth, the capital city of Western Australia, you will get to witness the breathtaking blooming tulips in the field..

Apart of the tulips, we will shoot at the Cottlesloe Beach, in the suburb of Cottlesloe which is famous for surfers, and of course the magnificent sunset of the West Australian coastline. Enjoy a glass of beer in the pub by the beach and watching the surfers breaking the waves!

Of course we are not forgetting the old port city of Fremantle, approximately 20 kms down stream of Perth. Fremantle is the home of the spectacular Western Australia Maritime Museum, Fremantle Prison, The Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour, the famous Kallis Brother’s Fish & Chips and the famous Cappucino Strip. Sitting on the edge of the Indian Ocean, you will witness very nice old victorian buildings which provide perfect backdrop for the wedding images.

“Spring in Perth” wedding photography package is available from the 3rd till the 8th October 2007. Pre-Wedding Outdoor Shoot is package at RM 6500.00, which will include Professional Bound Album and large portrait and DVD photo montage slideshow. Make up and hair styling for Brides are from AU$ 180 onwards. Enjoy the photography session and at the same time tour the magnificent city of Perth at her best - Spring, average max. temperature 17 degrees celcius, average minimum of 9 degrees Celcius and make this trip “the trip of a lifetime”

the ‘Sakura’ tree..

the lighthouse at South Mole in Fremantle, its a famous fishing location…

along the jetty in Mounts Bay Road..

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Mark booked me over the phone from Kuala Lumpur, I had 2 weddings on that saturday… The timing worked out pretty well. The 1st wedding which was Mark and Kara’s - starts from the morning till evening at around 5pm and the second wedding starts at around 6.30pm. The good thing was both weddings were held at the same venue, Hilton Kuching.

Mark and Kara’s wedding coordinator and decorator, Spiral Eventz did a very good job in decorating the entire Hilton’s Grand Ballroom. Among the guests were The Chief Minister of Sarawak, and most of the cabinet ministers. They had a fun afternoon, with Alex Wong - STM; singletrackmind performed a few songs.. Alex is Mark’s youngest uncle…

Was feeling very tired the next day but it was good. Spent time with my family in the morning and managed to go through some of the photos late afternoon. Here’s some of the images to share! Congratulations to Mark and Kara!

Morning sun…I always love morning sun..

Beautiful Bride’s maid, Vanessa..

The red CHANEL umbrella…

The beautiful bride, Kara..

Happy and proud dad YB Richard Wong, with Grandpa Datuk Amar James Wong and Grandma at the background..

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Our flight from Kuching scheduled to take off at 9pm but was delayed till 9.45pm. Guess what, this is Malaysia Airlines.. and talking about on time, Air Asia nowadays perform much better than MAS.

Arrived here at 10.30pm and now in the hotel, we are staying in Tanahmas Hotel in Sibu. Didn’t have time for dinner in Kuching, after checking in, we head straight to the coffeehouse for some light stuff. Went through the menu, there is nothing light, so I ordered “Char Kuey Tiau” and my assistant Christopher, ordered Fried noodle.

This is the cafe….

(shots were captured by my mac book pro)

and this is Chris, nice hardworking guy..

we will start our commercial assignment tomorrow morning at 10am..

We have been keeping ourselves busy the whole day editing and printing all the shots for Swinburne University graduation. Meanwhile while waiting for our printer to ‘rip’ the images, managed to have a short chat with my friend from Bintulu. She is a student doctor and will be doing her final year next year. I have always admired doctors, they are very kind people and talking about working hours, they spend very long hours in the hospital. What caught my attention about this doctor is that, I was following her blog and reading her life as a student doctor. It reminded me about my student days when I was in Australia.

Ok, time for bed now, and will update soon..

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Was busy the whole day yesterday for the annual convocation for Swinburne University of Technology.. For the 3rd time we were appointed as their official photographer. I went with 4 Senior Photographers from Alvin Leong Photography, who specialized in Wedding Journalistic shoot to cover the glorious event, we had fun and had no problems at all in capturing the most inspiring moment in a student’s life!

The venue was held in ‘Dewan Santapan’ one of the most prestigious hall in Malaysia. We were there since 8am and the whole event ends by noon..

Congratulations to all the new graduates of Swinburne University!

Preparing for the formal faculty group shot!

The beauty that caught our attention!

Anxious and proud parents/relatives!

the majestic hall..

the Vice Chancellor of Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, Australia, Prof Ian Young

the proud moment of happiness that words could not describe..

using the platform to support the video camera.. I like the way the little girl observing the lcd monitor..

The Vice Chancellor of Swinburne University of Technology, Prof Ian Young seated second from the right and seated third from right, our Deputy Chief Minister, Tan Sri Datuk Patinggi Dr Alfred Jabu who were present on behalf of the Pro Chancellor The Chief Minister of Sarawak, seated fouth from right, the Pro Vice Chancellor Prof Helmut Lueckenhausen, with the Academics..

shot from the mirror on the ceiling

receiving the degree..

The glorious hall…

some expression shots..

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Winnie and Paul are both specialist doctors. They walked into my studio one and a half years ago and booked us. The wedding was held at their residence. It was a cool morning, the morning sun contributed to the superb bridal preparations shot for Winnie. The wedding was held on the 7 July 07. (nice numbers, 777 hey!) What I like most the the spectacular views overlooking the lake and the swimming pool.. Every wedding is unique! Here’s some images to share with you all..

I noticed that the bride was looking at me after the make up, and with such a co-incident, the painting hanging on the wall was in a similar pose. I thought to myself, this is the moment I shouldn’t miss!

The Venue for the Wedding Ceremony..

The traditional calender caught my attention..

The bridal gown from us, imported from the US.

The beautiful fingers that create the music.

The cute poster on the reception area..

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Adeline and Lester booked me from New Zealand. A lot of coordinations via emails and phone calls. They both live in Christchurch, New Zealand.

I like them, very polite and humble. Here’s to all her friends and of course the couples, some shots from your wedding to share with you all

Adeline’s make up and hair were done by our Senior Make up artist, Carol.

Here’s arriving at the Church. My favourite shot, as it captured her expression well.

Ready for the Wedding Ceremony…

Another shot that I love..

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I am back from a family dinner at The Banquet, thought of trying it out as heard from friends that is good. Dinner was great!

I have somehow gathered my thoughts on what to write about my last weekend - Circle of Amour, wedding fair in Kuching. I have met with lot of interesting people there, needless to say it was a successful fair! I met with lots of my clients, friends and photographers who appreciate my work. Thank you, thank you. I am humbled by your presence! I organised a bridal show on the 2nd evening, which was a saturday and the whole show turned out to be a success! Thank you to all the models, Shirley and your team! Well done! The comments I got, was the GOWNS from Alvin Leong were beautiful, and the models were gorgeous!! I promise I will post some images here.. I will wait till my staff photographer edited it.

I met Kid, of Kid Chan Studio. We had a few night outings at The Junk Bar, a private bar for friends only and dinner at Bla Bla Bla restaurant. We talked a lot about our days in Perth. Argh! I miss Perth a lot!! Kid is a GREAT family man who really treasures what he has, he loves his family a lot! I can tell from the way he talks.. as the subject of families keep popping out! Well, it takes a family man to understand another family man!! haha! We also talk about our common friends in Perth! The gorgeous Thai twins, Mini and Maxi. I knew Mini and Maxi from Perth way back in 1991, they were in high school then somehow we lost contact. Somehow, we have a lot in common to talk about and I find him to be a great guy who love what he does! Brought Kid for Laksa and send him to the airport.. Our encounter gave me lots to reflect.

we were talking about some slideshow in my mac - photo courtesy of Michael Liew

I know that I have made a new friend! Hey, Kid, I treasure all my friends including you!

Besides Kid, I was introduced to a beautiful law student, Samantha Poh and a star musician Ben by Alwyn, a movie producer. Alwyn Tay is a great man who can never sit still. He has this superb character who feels that nothing is impossible. I like him! Ben is a star musician according to Alwyn, he is very talented. I have yet to see him perform. Samantha Poh, a law student, who is very eager to create history for herself. I am very confident that one day she will! We had dinner together in Bla bla bla, a nice cosy Chinese Restaurant owned by George, also my friend.

In the fair I met with a few photographers whom I have never met before. Fong Wui Syn (aka Buaya from SPAS) and Fishhook. Great guys! The rest of them, I know you guys, Chen Chin Chze, Chua Wee Boo, John Lai, Clement Leong, Mike Liew, Caesar, Ah Hui, Ping etc etc.. You know guys, as long as you love photography, man, we have something in common! Keep in up!

Also thank you to my personal friend, Bjarne Wong, Movie Director for ‘Possessed’ to came and visit us in the booth, (just saw him in telly ‘live’ from Penang receiving a film award, moments ago). Zarina Abdullah, Movie Producer and Director and her sister, Ummi Khaltoum Abdullah, Executive Producer, its nice seeing you all again after your sister’s wedding. I enjoyed the chat about the good old days in Western Australia.

Thank you Irene Law, Jimmy Chin, Irene’s sister, Allen, Norman and all my clients, you know who you are for visiting me at my booth. You guys are excellent! I know Irene and Jimmy have covered about the Wedding Fair, Circle of Amour in their blog, way faster than I do. Hey, I am not a writer, I am a photographer. Thank you guys!

Being a wedding photographer is a very demanding job. I have set an extremely high expectation on myself for the quality of images I produced. Somehow I just love my career as a professional wedding photographer - It took us to great height, we have witness the most beautiful wedding ever, the most touching one ever, and the sweetest one ever. The feeling of love that at times, when we experienced all those wonderful moments, we wished our loves ones were there with us to experience it too! I felt in love with my career again and again and again and again!!!

Its always a journey!

Will post some photos soon! I just learn on how to post images.. yahoooo! Very ’sua ku’ right? haha..

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Every year Sarawak Children Cancer Society (SCCS) will organize a food fair to raise fund for the children cancer patient. This year, it will be tomorrow, 5 Aug 07, at Kuching Civic Centre, starting at 8.30am. till noon. Anyone who wish to support to raise fund for the beautiful children, please go to the fair tomorrow! We are appointed by SCCS to assist in covering the event. Thank you to Mr Ho Khoon Beng Vice President and Mr Raymond Tong President of SCCS for giving us the opportunity to be part of this wonderful cause! Hope this food fair will raise some awareness to the public! Will post some images here.. soon.

2 weekends ago, SCCS teamed with Hilton Kuching to raise fund for the children, they organized a “3 legged fancy dress Charity Run” around Kuching City. It was a beautify sunday morning, more than 100 people took part in the fancy dress run. It was grace open by a prominent business person, Dtk Hajjah Raziah Mahmud. They managed to raise RM 37K+ from this run. I am sure the children will be happy.. thank you to everyone who participate in the effort…

It seems that I have a lot to write and I am composing my thoughts to blog it here.. so I do not know where to start.. will definitely start somewhere. Will keep you all posted.

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Hi Everyone, I started writing my own blog last year, then due to the amount of spams I received daily, I decided to stop until i realise that I have been silence for almost a year. I will record my life story as a wedding photographer, and anything interesting that I wanna share with my readers. Well today, its been a busy day.. came back and had an interview with See Hua Daily News, feature writer, Jerneh Hong. We chatted for almost 2 hours! The topic we covered were mainly about photography and how I got started. What is passion all about! haha Jerneh, it has been fun to work with you, we laughed a lot during our interview. After the interview, I had to interview 2 persons in my studio office. The post, Assistant Photographer and Graphic Artist. Oh yes, thank you to Hii Kheng Joung, the reporter from See Hua Daily News for the phone interview!

I will cover more about the wedding fair, Circle of Amour in my next post. Watch out for the photos too!

Tomorrow will be a long day with 2 different weddings, somehow, the timing work out nicely for me. I have one in the morning, a ceremony and a lunch reception Hilton, and a Wedding Dinner Ceremony plus Reception in the evening for a different couple, also in the Hilton. Congratulations to Mark Wong and Kara Reese Michell and to Christina and Ian Radziejewski! Will post some photos to share soon! Time for ZZZZZZzzz!

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