My Path Towards Sensational Photography

Photo Assistant needed this Wednesday 19 Oct

2011-10-17T20:53:00.004+11:00

Position filled! If you wish to be notified about future openings, please leave your email address and work experience in the comment section below.

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A photo assistant is required this coming Wednesday for a pre-wedding photoshoot. Job duties mainly include setting up and tearing down lights, and carrying stuff etc.
No experience necessary.
Interested? Please email ted@teddytan.com.au

Casting Call: Female models wanted for Waverley camera club portrait night

2011-07-19T03:42:00.002+10:00

Waverley Camera Club will be hosting a portrait session (led by yours truly) on 26 July Tuesday at Wadham House Mt Waverley and we need people to photograph!

We are looking for 2-3 females aged 18-30 to have their portraits taken.

In return for your time, each photographer will provide you with at least one image for your personal use.

If this is something you are interested in, please email ted@teddytan.com.au to apply or for more information.

Planking: Creative, but could be deadly

2011-05-17T19:07:00.006+10:00

Planking is the action of lying face down with arms to the sides, in unusual public spaces and photographing it (Thanks Wikipedia!)

I have never heard of “planking” until I came across a piece of unfortunate news concerning a 22-year-old man falling to his death from the seventh floor balcony in Brisbane, while believed to be performing this latest internet craze.

Much like me using photography to express myself, people are eager to show off their creative side, and some do it by planking. While I encourage and appreciate the creativity involved, I want to remind people to stay safe while enjoying the 15 megabytes of glory.

As a photographer, sometimes I put myself in risky situation where I could be hurt, like standing on the brim on the bathtub (see video below). I do that in pursuit of "The Shot". It is a calculated risk and performed while sober. Balancing yourself on the 7th floor balcony while under the influence of alcohol is not a good idea as we have found.

Fast forward to 1:58 for the good bits.

Many said planking originated from Australian National Rugby League player David "Wolfman" Williams. He planked after a try during the Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles vs Newcastle Knights game on March 27, 2011. He went on to talk about it on The Footy Show, where Williams described it as "pretty much active lying down”

But I say, Snoopy invented it first.

REMEMBER: SAFETY FIRST WHILE PLANKING

Tasmania Pre-wedding photography: Behind the scene video

2011-04-28T00:27:00.005+10:00

You have seen photos of our Tasmania pre-wedding photography trip, where I had to stand in knee-deep ice .

Now, presenting the behind-the-scene video, enjoy:

Wedding of the century: The entrance

2011-04-23T21:44:00.003+10:00

Type "Wedding of the Century" in Google and it is hard to miss the much anticipated fairytale wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton. Believe it or not, we already have footage of how it is gonna be like, thanks to the wedding rehearsal video, see the video below:

For those who are unable to watch the embed video, watch it on youtube directly here.

Familiar Faces Part 1

2011-04-03T21:42:00.003+10:00

When you've met lots of people at functions such as weddings, there are bound to be two faces that look similar The person on the left is a makeup artist and the person on the right is my sister.

similarity - 80% Stay tuned for part 2!

Monkey see, monkey do ?

2011-03-19T02:22:00.001+11:00

when taking group photo, there is a technique I use to communicate with the people over loud music - universal sign language.

Stick 3 fingers out means 3, 2 fingers means 2, 1 finger means 1, and the next thing you know, your photo is already being taken.

It is amazing how some of the guests picked this up straightaway...

Casting call: Asian looking females aged 25-60 (Melbourne)

2011-03-10T17:20:00.002+11:00

We need a photo of a chinese/japanese/korean mother and daughter pair happily consuming some food products. Photos will be used on our client's website.

If you look like, or are a Chinese / Japanese / Korean, and have a great smile. We need you!! Daughter needs to look in her 30s, moohter needs to look in her 50s.

We need you for around 2 hours and ideally, you need to be able to do your own hair and makeup (but not necessary). You will need to travel to the southeastern suburb of Melbourne.

Please send application to ted@teddytan.com.au and attach a photo of you. Please quote your rates while applying

Wedding of Julie-Anne and David

2011-03-01T20:08:00.003+11:00

I knew Julie-Anne from MatES (Materials Engineering Society). I was a member back in my uni days. Naturally, it is not surprising to see many mutual friends there.

The wedding was held at Werribee. With the sun shining brightly and the Werribee Mansion in the background, Jules and Dave exchanged vows which they wrote themselves.

The reception was at Werribee Racecourse and the one of the highlights of the evening was the performance by Suade, a male acapella group of five. Dave’s brother Rob was one of them. Prior to this, I didn’t know singing could be so hilarious and engaging. Highly recommended for any weddings / events.

Wedding Photography by:
Wedding photographer Melbourne Teddy Tan
1950 Photography CF Lui

Corporate videography - fitness test, resistance training, boxing and pilates

2011-02-10T18:28:00.004+11:00

For corporate videography and commercial photography, please visit http://www.teddytan.com.au/creative.htm

This is a commercial videography project for Witness the Fitness, personal fitness and training based in Clayton Melbourne.

Resistance training involves connecting two person at opposite end of a bungee rope. It is a physically demanding exercise but fun to watch.

Fitness test is a series of physical testing that is tailored for the police, fireman etc..

Boxing is usually mixed with other cardio exercise to add variety

The Pilates method seeks to increase the strength, flexibility and control of the body

Videography by Teddy and Hann. Post production by Hann.

Pre-wedding photography : Indah and Edo

2011-01-20T00:15:00.002+11:00

Indah and Edo came all the way from Singapore and Indonesia for their pre-wedding photoshoot in Melbourne. We spent 2 fun-filled days together and here are the photos in the final album layout.

Enjoy!

Away: 13 Jan - 12 Feb 2011

2011-01-11T17:29:00.004+11:00

Teddy will be in Singapore / Malaysia during 13 Jan - 12 Feb 2011 . All enquiries can be directed to ted@teddytan.com.au . Apologies in advance for any late replies.

Pre-wedding photography of Phath and Naro @ Melbourne

2010-12-22T20:38:00.007+11:00

Here's some pre-wedding photos done a few months back. The weather was not very kind that day. There were strong wind and rain, but Phath and Naro braved it all and we managed to get some shots done in between rain periods.

Photos below were taken at Docklands, King's Domain and St Kilda, Melbourne:

Seeing how windy the day was, I felt appropriate to do a "flying" shot. You might recognise the cow in tree statue at Docklands.

A similarly themed photo as above.

Liked the way the veil was lifted up by the wind.

This is one of the last shots of the day, taken with the lighting from the street lamps only.

pre-wedding photography location virtual scout

2010-12-14T13:16:00.007+11:00

Looking forward to go to the Great Ocean Road for pre-wedding photography shoot this coming Friday. Although I had been to this stretch of road no less than a dozen times, I feel that there could be locations worthy of stopping to appreciate, yet I simply drove past. I did some research and chanced upon this cool website:

link: http://www.panoramicearth.com/1602/Great_Ocean_Road/

It has 360 degree panoramic photos of locations all around the world, including the Great Ocean Road, and you can contribute your own image too. Pretty handy if you want to scout for photoshoot locations without leaving the house.

Surprise award

2010-12-09T16:08:00.002+11:00

Today, I logged on to Waverley Camera Club's website and discovered that I had won the EDI (electronic display image) of the year!

This comes as a surprise as I didn't win a single monthly competition for this entire year. I didn't get to bring the trophy home as I wasn't present at the award presentation. But here is a photo of the trophy from last year.

Yup, won it in 2009 and now again in 2010.

And here is the image that brought home the trophy:

DJ Duchess Kay

I still remember we were rofl-ing half of the time during this photoshoot, because of all the funny poses suggested by her brother.

Quick update

2010-11-30T15:18:00.003+11:00

Helloooooo....

Sorry for the lack of updates. November has been an exciting month. From the drive to Mildura and back, to being stuck on the Western Freeway for an hour in a limousine with the bridal party (we arrived fashionably late for the wedding), from the unusually wet weekends , to the equipment being stolen, each experience has made me a better photographer.

Time to catch up with some photo editing until the December madness starts.

Effects of makeup on wedding photos : Interview with Liren Neo

2010-11-24T01:12:00.004+11:00

Wedding Photos portal is delighted to have the opportunity to interview Liren Neo, a renowned makeup artist consultant to share with us her thoughts on how makeup affects your wedding photos.

Who is Liren Neo?
Liren Neo is part of a rare breed of Professional Makeup Consultants in Singapore whose philosophy is all about bringing out every woman’s natural beauty through makeup.

With a career spanning some 15 years, Liren’s forte is in the Bridal Makeup industry. She provides actual day and night bridal makeup, ROM wedding makeup and overseas wedding shoot services.

She also brings a wealth of experience and credibility to the field of makeup in the film and fashion industries. Her diversified portfolio is a testament to her reputation as a renowned makeup artist where celebrities, show hosts and fashion models have witnessed her magical prowess.

Besides her work as a professional makeup artist, Liren finds the time to impart her knowledge and skills through her makeup, image and styling classes at her boutique studio in Tanjong Pagar Plaza.

Q1: Why is good makeup so important for bridal couples?
A: Good makeup is important especially for brides. Your wedding is a once-in-a-lifetime event, so you definitely want to look beautiful, because it helps boost your confidence. Also, you want to be able to look through your wedding photographs years after and still feel that you looked great during the wedding. If a bride’s makeup is done properly, it will inspire the photographer to take better pictures too.

Q2: Should makeup be the same for both weding photography shoot and actual wedding day?
A: No. I discuss with a bride about details such as location, theme and wedding photography style, and propose a suitable look after that. My style of makeup is natural, as it can enhance a woman’s features better. I focus more on sharing skincare tips with her, and pay more attention to foundation because the coverage must last through the day.

Q3: How should a bride prepare for her wedding photography shoot?
1) Take good care of your skin. Besides a proper skincare routine (cleanser, toner and moisturiser), exercise regularly and get sufficient rest. That way, your skin will look radiant and smooth
2) Avoid drinking excessive water the day before your shoot
3) Communicate with your makeup artist clearly regarding your requirements – for example, discuss with him/her the wedding theme, venue and colours you prefer
4) Get your hair trimmed
5) Don’t try new skincare products as these may cause allergic reaction
6) Stay away from unhealthy food
7) Improve your body language by flipping through magazines to learn about poses for photographs.

Q4: What is the most important element in bridal makeup?
A: Good bridal makeup brings more colour to the face and enhances your natural beauty. The eyes are especially important, so the makeup in this area must enhance your emotions and expressions. Good eye makeup begins with contouring because it helps create the appearance of bigger and brighter eyes. It draws attention to the bride’s face instantly.

Q5: Do you have any tips for grooms?
A: Of course, because it is also an important day for the groom. Besides exercising to keep himself fit, he should eat a balanced diet. The groom can discuss clothing options such as moustache and spectacles with the makeup artist. I usually encourage him to explore a different look, such as styling his hair in a new way. Any haircut should be done at least a fortnight before the big day. I’ll also recommend a facial and manicure.

By: Liren Neo
~Beauty Magic by Liren Neo~
Blk 1 Tanjong Pagar Road,
#02-29,
Tanjong Pagar Plaza,
Singapore 082001

Mobile: +65 9768 6075
Website: http://www.lirenneo.com/
Email: enquiry@lirenneo.com
Facebook : http://www.facebook.com/BeautyMagicbyLirenNeo

Relive your memories with your wedding photos

2010-11-16T10:24:00.002+11:00

Original article by Wedding Photos Singapore

Worth More than a Thousand Words

When I ask my parents about how they met, they always show me pictures of their courtship days. The bulk of yellow-edged wedding photos that describe their joy. They may have their quarrels and fights (typical of any marriage), but those wedding pictures always remind me that the essence of their marriage is him carrying her over the threshold. A commitment to hold on to each to other.

It is perhaps a cliché to say that a wedding is a once-in-a-lifetime stab at happiness, but hardly anyone can deny that there are few days which are capable of bringing you true bliss. Your weddings should be one of them. Sometimes, wedding photos fade from proud displays in newly-bought homes to being kept away in storage boxes in the store-room. No matter where they are tucked away, wedding photos are like compact books of blissful happiness that reminds married couples and their children of what they had set out to have.

Some say that wedding photos are a waste of money, the more cynical complain of its vapid one-dimensional character. However, if you are of the mind that they remind you of something more inherent to your marriage, then there is value in your wedding photos. Personally, I think that wedding photos symbolise the beginning of a journey. Many wedding photos used to be taken below an archway, an open gate. I believe that they are gateways to a journey (hackneyed as they sound) because both parties have taken an oath. Behind the physical photos lie deeper meanings in ceremonial clothes, a rite of passage into a new place.

Yes, encrypted in wedding photos are memories that you hope you can show to your children, and your grand children.

behind-the-scene photos from Tasmania pre-wedding photography trip

2010-11-11T01:21:00.006+11:00

Here are some behind-the-scene photos from our recent pre-wedding photography trip to Tasmania, the one that I had to work in knee-deep ice.

Photos courtesy of Beauty Magic by Liren Neo.

4 degree celcius at Cradle Mountain, FREEZING!!!! That's me holding CF's waist to prevent him falling into the river. It's a brotherly act, and the purple scarf certainly made me look manly.

Picturesque Tassie.

Folding the impossible-to-fold reflector

The wind pressing the reflector against my magnificent and gorgeous frame.

Guess who's driving? Nearly 1000km covered in 2 days.

Dinner on the Spirit of Tasmania, polished them off in 2 minutes.

and finally, THE GANG!!!!!!

Visit this link for more behind-the-scene photos! Video coming soon.

For pre-wedding photography enquiries, please call Teddy 04 05642535 or email ted@teddytan.com.au

Food and beverage supplies for the road trip

2010-11-04T16:32:00.004+11:00

Driving up to Mildura and Warburton over this coming weekend, for 2 separate wedding photography assignments. I wouldn't say I am a road trip veteran but I do know a thing or two that will make the trip more enjoyable.

Something that ranks high on my priority list is food and beverage. Here's what will sustain me physically:

3 x 1.5L water (for the thirst)
1 x 1.5L lipton ice tea (for thirst with a twist)
4 x 500ml V energy drink (for extra kick when energy level is low)
2 x buns pack from bread top (taro and gree tea, in case can't find food during the journey)
1 x extra chewing gum (to keep awake while driving)

Setting off in 10 hours time!

No-Rain guarantee

2010-11-01T13:11:00.002+11:00

It was a weekend of wet weather here in Melbourne. The weather forecast predicted flooding in some areas, and the monthly average rainfall was to be poured over the weekend. It was also Melbourne Cup Racing Carnival. In addition to betting on the horses, the punters even came up with the idea of betting how much rain to fall on Derby Day. Such was the severity and publicity about the rain.

I was shooting an outdoor wedding (Phath and Naro) on Derby Day. Luckily, we were blessed with clear skies for the 4 hours we were outside. The limo driver Burgz (probably spelled wrongly) said he had connection upstairs. Funnily, I had connection upstairs too, wondering if it is the same guy. If you are thinking of having an outdoor wedding, consider hiring wedding photographer melbourne and Exclusive Limousines for your guarantee against being rained out.

Here's a photo I took 2 months back.

Rainy Days

My life as a wedding photographer

2010-10-26T13:42:00.003+11:00

Some of my friends commented how nice it is for me to be able to bring my wedding photography work to locations in country Victoria such as Yea, Shepparton, Mildura etc. What they had in mind about my work is something like this:

But in reality, my work often extends beyond the 9 to 5 working hours, and is actually something like this:

Just like any businesses, a huge portion of the time is dedicated to back-end work. For a start, I spent an entire Saturday last week just to do my taxes. Much of my time is dedicated to editing and album designing. Business upkeep pretty much fills up the rest of the time.

Pie chart courtesy of ISPWP

Tax time grrrrrrr

2010-10-21T18:21:00.003+11:00

A reminder for everyone like me, who do their taxes at the last minute, the due date is approaching soon. I plan to do mine this weekend.

WPJA has some tax tips for wedding photographers here.

Chemistry between a wedding photographer and wedding videographer

2010-10-15T16:55:00.011+11:00

Original article

Wedding photos and videos are a huge part of your big day. They will be what lives on as memories after the magical moments of the wedding itself. So naturally, you would love to have these moments to be the best they can truly be. To make the most out of your wedding photographer and videographer, there has to be some chemistry- some understanding between the two roles. Instead of covering technical aspects of the shooting, the following suggestions are to help you decide how to plan your wedding photos, wedding videos, and work them into a gorgeous symmetry of breathtaking beauty.

Firstly, for the wedding photos and videos to turn out right, both photographer and videographer have to have the same theme in mind. You wouldn’t want the wedding photos and videos to seem to be taken on separate occasions would you? So to establish a harmony between the two, do take some time to have a chat with both photographer and videographer and decide on a common theme which would run through the wedding photos and videos, say traditional or perhaps the four seasons. All these considerations will help in capturing those picture perfect moments in your wedding photos and the videos for the many years to come.

Another thing you should try to do is to communicate to your photographer and videographer about key events during the wedding. For example, if you wish to pay special attention to a speech the best man makes during the banquet, inform them of its importance to you. As such they will be able to devote special attention towards these special events, and produce lovely wedding photos and videos pertaining to these events. This will help them familiarise with the layout and events on the day itself, leaving lesser room for error.

In addition, it will help alot when the wedding photographer and videographer have worked together before. They will understand each other shooting styles and know how to compliment one another instead of blocking or fighting for the best angle/views.

Finally, don’t be overly concerned with the details of the wedding photos and videos on the day itself. It’s your special day, go ahead and enjoy yourself! By communicating well, and making your wishes known, your wedding photos and videos should turn out just the way you’d want them to.

Melbourne - Numurkah - Melbourne

2010-10-11T02:03:00.005+11:00

I love country weddings as each place has its unique character. This time, I drove all the way to Numurkah to photograph Gareth and Allison's wedding. The Garmin GPS proved to be reliable and I reached the place without drama.

To keep myself entertained along the way, I tried to strike up a conversation with Karen, but was being responded with her telling me to turn left or turn right. Karen is the GPS.

Total travelling time (two ways): 5 hours 45 minutes
Distance travelled: 485 km

Photos will be up when I get around to pp them. Meanwhile, here is a photo of Gareth, me and Allison, taken just before I left.