We understand how tempted you must be when you see all your friends having these beautiful destination wedding portraits abroad, and how easy it is to overlook the goodness that’s right at our doorstep. Malaysia is full of great spaces and places, not to mention very talented photographers who will surely be able to make your bridal portraits every bit as stunning and breathtaking as those that were shot overseas. Explore these:
#01 45Lekiu Melaka Guesthouse, Malacca
Located in the heart of Malacca’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, this pre-war art deco building was beautifully recreated with an old world charm and modern décor by fashion stylist David Chang and art director Soon Lum. It’s an extravagant space that will make your photos look like fashion spreads.
#02 ChinaHouse, Penang
ChinaHouse is a traditional compound made up of three heritage buildings, with an open-air courtyard, cafés and galleries that all point to one thing – the perfect photoshoot. From a starting price of just RM250, all of which will be a donation, you can have a hassle-free shoot here.
#03 M Boutique Hotel, Ipoh
An inspiring fusion of Malaysia’s colonial past and contemporary décor, the hotel was birthed out of an architectural style from the early 20th century called Straits Eclectic. Boasting a vintage chic feel, with various sets for you to shoot at, it’s the perfect weekend breakaway for a vintage and lifestyle shoot all in one place.
#04 Alang’s Rawa, Rawa Island
Surely one of Malaysia’s best-kept secrets, Rawa Island is a coral island that is located off the eastern coast of Johor. With its white sands and clear blue waters, it is quiet and private, especially on weekdays, making it perfect for photoshoots. Climb to the top of the hill for a stunning view of the island or walk to the edge of the jetty. Even better, there’s also good food and great chill-out time to be had.
Photos by Anna Rina
#05 Time Tunnel Museum, Cameron Highlands
Ever considered travelling back in time? At the Time Tunnel Museum, you will literally feel as if you’ve walked through a time tunnel and gone back in time. It even has colourful spaces filled with vintage props that are perfectly lit for photoshoots! Have your bridal portraits done here for just the regular entrance fee of RM5 per person; it has to be the best deal in town! And if you love greenery, you can also move on from here to the Boh Tea Plantation. Need more inspiration? Check out the trailer for The Journey. Cameron Highlands is a photographer’s haven, and thanks to the cool weather, you’ll have a sweat-free photoshoot too.
Photo by Jspy Photography
#06 Kampar
Founded in 1887, the Kampar town lies within the Kinta Valley, which is rich in tin. In the older part of Kampar town – Jalan Gopeng and Jalan Idris – charming pre-war shop houses line the streets, their façades mostly still in their original form. This rare beauty is what makes photos taken here very captivating.
Photos by V.Studio
#07 Mabul Island
Mabul is a small island located off the southeastern coast of Sabah, Malaysia, approximately 15 kilometers away from Sipadan. It has quickly become a diving destination due to its proximity with Sipadan Island, and thanks to its own natural beauty, will surely give you gorgeous photos.
Photos by Mohd Razali Photography
#08 Grand Shanghai Food Theme Park, Puchong
Be prepared to be transported back in time to 1930s Shanghai, complete with antique cars, trishaws, old wooden benches, lampposts and Chinese music from a bygone era. Located in the Klang Valley, it’s the perfect location if you are looking for an ‘In the Mood for Love’ inspired photoshoot. As for us, we’re in love with that vintage black car.
