GEORGE TOWN: No wedding ceremony or banquets yet, but no worries – couples are still having photoshoots to celebrate their big day.

       Professional wedding photography director Vernon Kong said since the pandemic, there have been requests for pre-nup and sometimes post-wedding shoots.

       “Some couples planned a small ceremony and decided to have a photoshoot before they hold their ceremony later.

       “Many, however, have had to postpone their nuptials and photoshoots due to the travel restrictions.

       “Some are from overseas or other states. Earlier before the lockdown, some did come down from other states for their shoots.

       “To keep it safe, I reduced the team that would interact with them.

       “Usually, we have extra photographers for pre-wedding shoots, but now it is just one person doing it,” he said.

       Kong said the last time he had outdoor shoots was in April.

       “For now, we know outdoor photoshoots are allowed but we are unsure of the standard operating procedure for make-up artists and those in charge of clothing (gowns).

       “In the meantime, we do marriage registrations.

       “We will probably resume our photoshoots in October after more are immunised,” he added.

       Sharon Tan, photography marketing director at a local bridal house, said they just reopened this month and have catered to two couples.

       “It is the custom for many to still have a photoshoot, so despite the pandemic, they reach out to us.

       “We however have the photoshoots indoors in our studio and only hold them twice a week for safety.

       “We have a big indoor studio to cater to couples, but now we do not offer outdoor services as the number of Covid-19 cases is still high.

       “We take in couples who are both fully-vaccinated. They must ensure they practise social distancing (in interacting) with the photographer and make-up artist,” she said.

       Tan said despite many still wanting such photoshoots, they now opt for cheaper packages or only the pre-wedding shoot.

       “Since things are still uncertain, couples are not keen to take the full package, which includes gowns and tuxedos for the ceremony.

       “We do hope that we can offer more services including outdoor shoots soon,” she said.