LUMINARE 

Another one of our favourite weddings from this year. Debbie and Tim got hitched at the stunning roof top reception, Luminare. Their special day was blessed with gorgeous weather and a magical sunset that we rarely get here in Melbourne. More often than not our attempts to chase the sun are often shrouded by clouds with our beloved temperamental Melbourne weather, so when we finally hit the jackpot that day, lets just say, we got a little shutter happy :) 

To top things off, we were blessed to have such gorgeous subjects to capture. Debbie was absolutely stunning in her ruffled Vera Wang inspired dress and quirky Alice + Olivia pumps; and the bouquets of bright yellow calla lilies were a perfect representation of their sparkly personalities and love for each other.

Thank you, Debbie and Tim (the cutest muffin couple around), for providing such a beautiful wedding for us to be a part of. 
Much love,
Cung xo

CATHLEEN JIA

For a year now, we have had the pleasure of sharing a studio with the sweet and talented Cathleen Tan. We would like to dedicate this post to Cathleen as she prepares to venture away from our Hawthorn shop to bigger and greater dreams in Elsternwick, and share with you some of her work that we have had the honour of collaborating with.

'Cathleen Jia' began in 2011 as Cathleen's vision in creating vintage style bridal gowns came to life. Her love for intricate beading, delicate lace and glamorous evening dresses have resulted in stunning bridal gowns that are elegant and beautifully hand crafted.

Each project never really felt like work as we always had so much fun working with Vanee from Babydolls Make-Up Artistry; Simone Smith,  Tarryn Krysten and Jennifer Melendez who helped us model the stunning dresses; Eliska Lam from Ruffles and Bells Stylist; and Lucie from Lulu Bird floristry.   

Cathleen, the team from TRUphotography would like to wish you all the best at your new studio. We know this is not goodbye but we will surely miss having you around and being surrounded by your gorgeous gowns at the office. You are such an inspiration to have in the wedding industry and we look forward to our next catch up. 

Luv Cung and Leslie xoxo

P.S. CONGRATULATIONS on your engagement! We know you will have a blast designing your own wedding dress =)

ALLURE & ROMAN HOLIDAY... 

ACCESSORIES... 

GATSBY GLAMOUR...

ACACIA RIDGE

Please meet Bec and Stan.
It doesn't happen often that I exceed the upload limit of my blogs but in the case of this wedding set, culling the photos was too difficult a task when everything about the day was just so perfect! 

There was not one thing that I didn't love about their story. 
I love Bec's dress and how it was handmade by her mother, who sat there on the morning of the wedding day adding finishing touches to the stunning gown. 
I love the bridesmaid's dresses and how they were all so perfectly mismatched.
I love the bouquets of baby's breath, the David Austin roses that adorned their 'cheese-cake', the stunning rows of vines and the picture perfect hills of the Yarra Valley. 
And lastly, I just love how the whole day had been styled and put together; rustic, relaxed and effortlessly beautiful, just like the couple themselves.  

Thank you so much for choosing TRUphotography, Bec and Stan. We had such a wonderful day with you both. We hope you will continue to love these frames as much as we do, for a long, long time to come. 

Luv Cung xo

Yarra Valley - how gorgeous!

It was the first time we'd provided an outdoor photobooth. What a great idea it was to make the most of the amazing summer night. 

THE SOVEREIGN

Marriage is so much about the union of two families and the day is always made much more spectacular when the families involved have a rich background of culture and tradition. Steph and Maurice had an amazing day. It was such a privilege to witness and be part of a Coptic Orthodox Wedding. It was so interesting to learn about all the rituals carried out at the church ceremony; from the way the groom awaited for the bride at the church entrance, signifying the creation of Adam before Eve; to the way the bride is always seated to the right hand of the groom, referring to power, might and strength of the groom. Their day was filled with blessings and beautiful moments. To top it off, Steph's students from school also came to celebrate the moment their lovely Miss Veltri became Mrs Farag. The entire bridal party were a treat to work with as we made it to gorgeous locations inside Spice Market and outside the popular Victorian Army Barracks facade. Steph and Maurice danced their night away at The Sovereign, Melbourne with a spectacular scene of sword fighters and drummers. What a moment to be part of.

Thanks Steph and Maurice for choosing TRUphotography for your wedding photography. We hope these images bring back endless memories of your beautiful day.

Luv Cung xo

MELTING MOMENTS

Meet Lee and John. These two have the kind of love that we all search for; bounded and faithful. Together since high school, they have grown together and proved over and over again that true love with your first, and one and only, does exist. I love the way her eyes smile when she looks at him and the way he can still make her laugh. They simply melt my heart and make me just want to cuddle up with a big, warm teddy.

Lee and John, you two are so cute together! Thank you for putting a smile on my face as I go through these images. Lee, you are beautiful and John, you're a lucky boy =) 
We wish you both love for eternity and hope you have an amazing wedding day this weekend.  

Luv Cung xo

LOVE IS ORANGE

"It's a wonderful thing: the life-long unity of love, faith and friendship."

Love is Dan and Nicole. 
It's usually hard blogging about a couple that I've only met once before, but it was so much fun going through this batch of wedding photos that their story fell into place quite effortlessly. For those who do know Dan and Nicole well enough, I'm sure you can agree that these two have a special synergy between them. Their fun and playful nature radiates through the camera and that's not something that happens very often. There really wasn't a single photo where either one didn't have a smile on their face and it is so obvious, even to someone who doesn't know them very well, that these two knew of how wonderful the journey of marriage is and how lucky they are to be embarking on it together. 

Faith is their love for God.
The one thing that pulled my heart-strings was watching these two celebrate their love for each other with their church family in front of God. As a Christian myself, I've always found it beautiful to watch others embrace in His presence and especially for Dan and Nicole, emotions flowed as they shared the happiest day of their lives with the one who's loved them most. 

Friendship is getting up to mischief with your friends.
For this bridal party, they went extreme - taking us to a fenced off location and going crazy with bright orange flares. Definitely a sight to see and something that doesn't happen often at any old wedding. 
For Dan, this also meant letting the boys have their way with him at a 'surprise bucks-photoshoot' organized by best man Matty. One can only imagine what they got up to. Poor boy...

Dan's bucks-night photoshoot. This was just the beginning. To view the 'other' photos, please ask Dan...

Anyway, enough from me. Enjoy the photos of this gorgeous couple. Thank you Dan and Nicole for choosing TRUphotography and for being such beautiful subjects to capture. 
Keep on smiling and enjoy married life :)

Luv Cung xo

Oh so sweet!

Is this what you call 'bromance'?

I love tears at a wedding!

Here we go...

Boys will be boys.

And the craziness begins...

OK, now for some serious shots.

Such an awesome bridal party. Love it!!!

Special thanks to Roger Lee for assisting me on the day and being an all round nice guy :)

THE MIRACLE OF LIFE

My beautiful niece, Vivienne Rose Tang.

The new year has definitely started off with a bang. I became an aunty for the first time last Saturday morning to a beautiful little girl, Vivienne Rose. To be honest, I'd never been one for babies. Two years ago when we got married I remember saying to Leslie that we'd live in our cute little unit with two dogs, we'd travel the world and chase his photography dreams - life would be perfect! Fast forward to today and it still baffles me how this concept of 'babies' has suddenly entered our lives. 

It hit me last Friday when my brother messaged me about his wife going into labour; 'We're at hospital now. Pray for us.' It dawned on me that this whole nine months of whinging and complaining about how big I'm getting, how I miss my ham sandwiches and how simply sleeping has become such a chore is very nearing its end. It's sad to know that in a couple of weeks, I will no longer be able to talk to my belly and have that be acceptable, no longer will I be able to feel my little boy's every move, know exactly where he is and know that I'm doing all I can to keep him safe. It's taking the first step to letting go, and we all know how hard that always is... 

It's scary to think that the nine months spent creating this new life was the easy part. I've definitely developed a new found respect for all mums out there, and of course especially, for my own mum - who bravely gave birth to two naughty monkeys in a third world country, without the luxury of any happy gas or epidural. 

This maternity shoot was meant to be have been done with my beautiful sister-in-law. Unfortunately, I failed miserably in convincing her to join me on this shoot before she popped, so for now, it'll be just me :) Thank you to my wonderful husband for capturing these lovely frames and sorry for being such an unco-operative and demanding client - you know how much I hate having my photos taken. 

Hopefully, I will still be able to find time to blog once bubbi is out as the team from TRUphotography have still so much to share. Until next time, Happy Chinese New Year everyone! Hope the year of the Horse brings lots of wealth, happiness and good health to all. Take care for now!

Luv Cung xo

My wonderful hubby :) 

Wish me luck!

AMELIE

Family shoots are new to us. We've attempted a couple but there was always something daunting about having an uncontrollable toddler running around. It still makes me laugh when I think of Leslie at family shoots, with his 'wedding-photographer' hat on, he would say, "Alright, everyone looking this way!" Only to be greased off by the poor child who has obviously been reluctantly awoken and not at all loving his all too intimidating camera.

I must say though, after having done a few now, I am starting to get a knack for them. Maybe my motherly instincts are finally kicking in, who knows. But we had so much fun with the Byrnes family at Melbourne Zoo, the place where Carmel and Chris tied the knot three years ago. It was such a sweet idea to revisit all the locations where they had their wedding photos taken, now to be retaken with the addition of their little gem, Amelie.

There's an honesty and purity in the way children play and see the world that helps pull me back down to earth - I absolutely loved watching Amelie and could have sat and photographed her all day.

We hope you enjoy these images of this beautiful little family. Thanks Carmel and Chris for spending the day with us again. See you guys again next year, maybe :) 

Luv Cung
xo

I love how dad is having so much more fun than Amelie. 

Chris and Carmel said their vows in the Japanese Garden.

Mischievious little monkey!  

Amelie makes an escape from mum and dad. 

That tree...

Dad will always be the funniest guy in the world :)

Love Chris' reaction here. He must have been laughing at his own joke!

The ever inquisitive mind of a child... 

A protective hand from mum, the look of excitement on dad's face, a little girl in awe... priceless!

Ah such a cutie! :)

PAINTING WITH NATURAL LIGHT

Light is everything in photography and the beauty of what we do involves capturing the movement of light in a still image. The team at TRUphotography love working with natural light - there's just something so magical about how the sun can make a photo feel. Each photo, taken within seconds of each other, can look completely different depending on where the light hits, if the sun-rays are softened behind a cloud or how shadows have crept into the scene. 

Looking back at all the photos we have taken, all my favourite ones have been naturally lit, painted with gorgeous warm light. It brings an intangible warmth to the photo and a third element to the image. Shadows and contrast in my opinion, creates mood and who doesn't love a photo with character? 

More often than not, photographers spend so much time fiddling with the technicalities of a camera; the white balance, aperture, shutter speed and ISO, all just to snap that perfect shot, only to have to spend hours later on Photoshop adding that special touch to finish things off. We got lucky with Dalena and Phil though...

The sun was low enough so that we were able to capture the couple in different types of flattering light. Just by circling around the subject, we were able to catch them in softer light with the sun behind them, as well as take moody, more contrasty images by facing them against the sun. We moved and repositioned Dalena and Phil around a lot as we wanted to make the most of the natural lighting. So, thanks guys for being so patient with us as we positioned and angled you this way and that. It is hard work being such beautiful models and to be ravaged by mosquitoes at the same time... but it's all worth it :)

You guys were such a joy to work with! We wish you both all the best for your engagement party this coming weekend and future life together in Brisbane. 

Much love,

Cungy xo

Every couple has a story waiting to be told...

Wedding photography has evolved so much over the coming years. No longer are the days where photographs are simply a documentation of what was of a special day. Many photographers, and videographers alike, now use these images as a tool for story-telling. Whether it be to retrace footsteps on how the couple first met at their special place, or to celebrate how far they have travelled together on their journey in life. It allows family and friends in to their world through visual images, and like the saying goes, 'A picture paints a thousand words'.

There is no better way to remind everyone of a couple's life together before the big day. But we often get asked the same questions as our clients try to get their heads around the idea of an 'engagement' or 'pre-wedding' shoot. What is it? Why do I need one? And for the ladies, what do I wear?!

Having fun with lights is time consuming. Pre-wedding shoots are the perfect opportunity to spend a little extra time to add that creative flair to images.  

What is it?

First and foremost, the terms 'engagement' and 'pre-wedding' shoots are used interchangeably. There is no difference - it just depends on what people want to call it. The concept is the same. Before the big day, we like to meet with the couple and hang out for a 'practice shoot'. How the day pans out depends on the enthusiasm of the couple - some like to go all out in formal attire with hair, make-up, props, flowers, the whole spectacle. Whilst others like to keep it low key and casual - just like they were to go out on a Friday night date (with the addition of a stalker-ish photographer).

(c) leslie truong

Alice and Seb in The Conservatory

Jo and Chien chilled at home.
They met through church and music is a big part of their lives. Photos from this relaxing shoot was a great contrast to photos they got from their wedding day, where they both glammed up and looked a million bucks! 

The couple may choose to go somewhere they have been to before on a previous date, if they wanted to share their story. However, like most couples do, it is seen as a good opportunity to have professional photos taken at some beautiful iconic Melbourne locations; like Melbourne University, Parliament House or Fitzroy Gardens. 

(C) Leslie Truong

Bek and Marcus wanted to revisit Melbourne University, where Marcus studied his Engineering degree. 

Amie and Brendan in between shadows at the infamous row of trees in Fitzroy Gardens.

Why do I need one?

You don't need one, but as photographers, it is a good chance for us to get to know our couples a bit better. They have after all, entrusted us to capture the moments of their big day and on this shoot, which is much more relaxed than any wedding day could be, it allows us to ease our couples into posing in front of a camera and showing them what to expect on the big day. 

Rose and Raymond enjoyed a lovely summer's day up in Mt Dandenong.

For couples, it affirms the quality of images that we will be providing and if there are any doubts or insecurities, they can all be resolved before the stress and panic kicks in.

What do I wear?  

Depending on why we are doing this shoot might affect what you decide to wear. Most couples like to use the photos for display around the wedding venue on the big day, others get creative and incorporate the images into their 'save the date' or wedding invitations and some just like to have them in and around the house. In those cases, neat casual to semi-formal attires work well. 

We had so much fun with Lee-ean and Kum. Their engagement photos were used as save-the-date cards.

For the ladies, you want to stand out in your photos. Opt for clothing that is sheer and light as natural lighting loves to reflect from soft fabrics and makes for that glowing effect. Light fabric such as chiffon and silk also manoeuvres well in the wind, which is always such a romantic look. Steer clear from dark colours though if possible, as lighting and detail easily gets lost and can add a 'heaviness' to the photo. Remember, just like how you would choose your wedding dress, keep the style timeless and classic - and be sure to feel comfortable. The more comfortable you are, the more happy and confident you'll look.  

Monique definitely knew how to dress for the camera. A bright, flowy dress was exactly what we needed for that extra pop of colour.

(c) leslie truong We were so lucky to have caught the 'golden hour' with Susan and Vito in Daylesford. Her angelic white dress was perfect for this shot. 

Some couples who are expecting a very hectic wedding day have even chosen to wear their wedding gear to ensure they get most out of their $5,000 dress or tux. Of course, if the bride doesn't mind the groom seeing her in her white dress before the big day, this would be a great idea to get those shots at a location that may be a bit further out like at a winery or a beach, if there is just no way to get there on the actual day. 

Phal and Justin made good use of their pre-wedding shoot with us. We travelled to several locations around the city, including the Barracks which is absolutely stunning with vibrant red ivy in Autumn. 

Brides, it might also be a good idea to organise a hair and make-up trial on the same day as this shoot. Not only will you be already made up, but it will also give you a chance to see how the look actually appears in photos  and any amendments you'd want to make can be sorted out before the big day. 

Phal looked stunning! 
Since all the location shoots were already done, they were able to relax on their wedding day - thank goodness considering their day started at 5am!!

I hope this has cleared up a few questions about engagement and pre-wedding shoots. It is basically just a day where we can hang out and have fun in front of the camera. Whether you are one of our future potential clients or if you have already decided to go with another awesome photographer, be sure to enquire and ask about an engagement or pre-wedding shoot. They are always lots of fun and the result is always beautiful images that will last a lifetime. 

Blessed with a fairyfloss sunset with Stephani and Maurice. 

Happy wedding planning and good luck!! 
Luv Cung xo

TATRA RECEPTIONS

One of the best things about being a part of the wedding industry is having the opportunity to work with passionate and dedicated creatives. From florists, dressmakers, hair and make up artists, to of course, videographers and photographers. Everyone is in it for one soul purpose - to artistically showcase a couple who are about to declare their love and commitment to the world. We all work as individuals, with our own creative vision and style; the magic only happens when everything is strategically put together, to tell a story that can only be seen and felt. 

Kim and Sebastian's wedding was one of those occasions that made humble photographers like us scream out, "Boo Yah!!!!" The immense amount of dedication and planning involved in this wedding was evident. With the help of friends and family, Kim and Sebastian's story of their travels around Europe was told on their wedding day in such a unique and personal way. They had personalised postcards, balloons, table decorations and even a kombi! Everything was individualised and handmade, and to top it off, the whole wedding was pulled together in 3 months.

We love being inspired by those who are passionate, and even though we were just guests on the day we couldn't help but sneak in one or two (or 300 - hehe) shots of the beautiful couple. We hope to have captured some of Kim and Sebastian's hard-work, love and devotion to make this special day a memorable one for all their loved ones who had travelled from all over the world to be with them. 
Enjoy.         

Cung xo

The whole foyer was decorated with stories of their time together travelling and falling in love in Europe...

The proposal under the Eiffel Tower =)

A few heart-felt words from her sister, Liz, who helped style and theme the wedding...

We work very closely with Grandeur Films. They too had the honour of capturing Kim and Sebastian's wedding. Here, in motion form, is their take on the day... 

INGLEWOOD ESTATE

Bek and Marcus. A lifetime in the making, these two had promised their all to each other years ago.

It takes me back to Bek's story of how her and Marcus got together. That night at their high school formal, their rendezvous was cut short as Bek's father promptly arrived to pick her up. I wonder if it ever occurred to him that night, fifteen years ago, that the boy he took her away from would be the one she was one day going to marry... 

They really are the kind of couple that just makes you want to go, "Nawwww..." Undoubtedly best friends forever and simply the perfect couple. We wish you two lovebirds all the love and happiness in the world.

Luv Cung xo

Bek's gorgeous vintage dress was made by her cousin, Tess Rankin. 

The special moment shared between father and daughter... 

'That shot' that says it all...

Enjoying a dance with the new father in law.

Special thanks to Paul Lim for second shooting on the day. 

OVERNEWTON CASTLE

What a long time it's been since our last blog. The TRUphotography team has had a whirlwind of adventures these past months with lots of weddings and travels but it's great to get back on track and finally get things up online again. 

Please meet Eve and Nathaniel. This lovely couple got married on a beautiful autumns day at picturesque Overnewton Castle, a beautifully hidden location in the northern suburbs of Melbourne. It was an intimate day, with big smiles from beloved family and close friends - just the way we like it. 

Thank you Eve and Nathaniel, for giving TRUphotography the pleasure of capturing your special day. 
Hope you enjoy their story as much as we did. 

Cung xo

PHOTOBOOTH FUN! 

Photobooths are one of those things that have become such a big craze that is almost impossible to escape at every wedding or event nowadays. For some bizarre reason, people seem to love the idea of putting on silly props and squishing into a ridiculously small frame of space, only to be snapped unexpectedly and at random intervals. The beauty of it, you see, is that the 'uncontrolled' style of an unmanned camera seems to capture people in their true colours, leaving moments that are genuine and hilariously candid.

It was our first time setting up a photobooth and needless to say, we had so much fun and look forward to sneaking it in at every chance we get, *hint hint* to all our upcoming clients ;)

We hope you enjoy our travel back in time to the 90's, when the Spice Girls rocked our world and pixelated video games was the thing to have! 

Thanks for the opportunity Izzy and hope you had a wonderful 30th birthday!!

Cungy xo

BEST FRIENDS

For those of who are unfamiliar with us, we are a husband and wife photography team based in Melbourne. The husband being the talented photographer and the wife being the cook, the cleaner and the everything else that helps TRUphotography chug along :) We have been snapping away for close to five years now and have finally got our website up and running to share our love for photography online! YAY

2012 was definitely a year of growth and opportunities for us at TRUphotography. We ventured out to lots of new and beautiful locations and experienced our many firsts, from Coptic Orthodox weddings to newly born baby shoots. It was a year that reminded us of how lucky we are to have found photography and how our 'job' (if you can call it that) could so powerfully provide everlasting memories of being together, at a certain place and time.

Reflecting back on the past year brings me back to when we said goodbye to a couple of friends as they began their new chapter in life as a married couple, back home, in Indonesia. TRUphotography was fortunate enough to spend a couple of days with them, capturing their love story here in Melbourne. However sad farewells may be, this closing chapter in their lives will undoubtedly lead to many more wonderful and anticipating moments to come.

So, although we are a couple of weeks late (due to having too much fun on holidays), we would like to say cheers and farewell to 2012!
Au revoir, sayonara and goodbye! All the best to everyone for the coming year and may 2013 bring with it memory cards full of wonderful moments, perfectly lit blue skies and golden rays of sunshine... if not, grab open your reflector, pop on your flash and make your own moments to capture!

For now, stay happy, stay inspired and stay in love together. After all, together is a wonderful place to be... ♥

Happy New Year!!

Your TRUphotography blogger, Cung xo