Bianca and Joseph inspire me to reconsider what are the most vital and memorable elements of a wedding.

Their wedding day had a simple rundown of a Chinese-style ceremony where they served tea to both sides of the parents in the morning, a Western ceremony where they officially tied the knot in the afternoon, followed by a banquet in the evening. However, each occasion of the day was ample with interesting moments that make timeless photos: Bianca and the bridesmaids enjoying champagne barefoot on the balcony, overlooking the metropolitan view of Hong Kong, Joseph and the groomsmen savoring chicken feet, the couple laughing together, their parents in a dance…to describe just a few.

I was particularly impressed by the overwhelming joy shared by everyone present on the day – a clear indicator of their close, loving bond like one big family. These are the things I love to capture the most as a wedding photographer.

My belief is echoed by Bianca’s speech during the banquet. She revealed that when she was planning the wedding, she had made one important condition with her father: the wedding should only invite the closest few without including any business partners. It is meant to be an intimate, private wedding as opposed to ‘a public show’ for the entertainment of mere acquaintances. She envisioned a wedding that could match what the couple wishes for, instead of simply fulfilling the expectation or imagination of others.

Her vision was beautifully realized, as shown by all the happy faces on the day and in the photos.

Thank you Bride and Breakfast HK for featuring: A Delightful Wedding at the Aberdeen Marina Club

Photographer: Patrick Photography / Venue: Portside Restaurant in AMC / Makeup & Hair: Karen Lam from Delicate Face Makeup / Civil Celebrant: 岑漢和

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Rain was tapping softly on the window panes, as the bride, Sally, donned the Chinese traditional dress and a pair of Jimmy Choo red heels. Red dates tea in delicate porcelain cups, golden bracelets, roses in the hair. The rain did not dampen the mood of Sally’s family and friends; if anything, it matched very well with the sense of elegance and romance in the room, as they joyously prepared for the ceremonies later.

As a photographer, I endeavor to document every precious detail on the wedding day, be it the weather or interactions among people, in order to convey a mood or a story. I was particularly impressed by the close, loving bond Sally shares with her family and friends. The moment when Sally’s mother stood at the front door with tears in her eyes, gazing longingly at her daughter’s back as she was led gently into the limousine by the groom – hearts were touched, the shutter was pressed.

Almost as if in synchrony with the mounting excitement of the couple as they arrived at the Béthanie Chapel, the bright sun finally emerged in the afternoon. Basked in the golden glorious light, the chapel was filled with family members and friends who came to dedicate their deepest and warmest blessings to the couple.

I see it as an acquired skill to be able to quietly and precisely capture the wedding day from the viewpoint of a photographer, without acting like an intruder or disrupting the natural flow of such a sacred occasion. To be part of the group and feel as they feel, but with my camera.

No matter how beautiful or grand a wedding ceremony is, it will come to a close at the end of the day. But it also signals the beginning of a new chapter of life for the couple, who shall continue their bonds with every member present, creating more moments to be treasured and captured.

Thank you Bride and Breakfast HK for featuring: A Delightful Wedding with Hints of Pink at Béthanie Chapel

Photographer: Patrick Photography / Reception Venue: Béthanie Chapel and Sir YK Pao Studio / Banquet Venue: Island Shangri-la Ballroom / Gown: Vera Wang / Heels: Jimmy Choo / Makeup and Hair: Euthy Wong from Makeup Fever / Bridal Bouquet: Miracle Flower Shop / Chapel Decoration and Floral Arrangement: JF Floral Couture / Banquet Decoration and Floral Arrangement: Evollove / Cake: Sift / Harpist: Kilby Li / Liveband: Me2 Production

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My experience with Phoebe and Rocky confirms my belief that only when a photographer is able to immerse himself/herself in the ceremonies without any artificial meddling, would the best story naturally unfolds itself in the photo album.

Be it a tiny gesture like the couple holding hands, a loving gaze into each other’s eyes between mother and daughter, the bridesmaids adjusting the red flower in the bride’s elaborate hairdo, a whisper into the bride’s ear by the groom; these are the moments I like to capture with my camera the most. They can tell a lot about the interactions among family members and friends, and the intimate relationship of the couple. I was especially touched when Phoebe’s mother knelt down to put on the shoes for Phoebe, reminiscent of one of the earliest childhood memories every daughter shares with her mother.   

Phoebe and Rocky’s wedding was held in the Peninsula Hong Kong, which is a hotel I always love to visit. The classical architecture and ambience of the hotel match perfectly with the refined elegance of their banquet for the closest few.

Wedding ceremonies need not be unduly extravagant with many guests. As long as a wedding is attended and witnessed by loved ones, it is already a perfect one like that of Phoebe and Rocky, to be remembered and cherished forever in photos. 

Thank you Bride & Breakfast HK for featuring: A Grey and Red Themed Wedding at the Peninsula

Venue: The Peninsula Hong Kong / Brides’ Gown: Amire the Bridal Closet (wedding gown), Koon Nam Wah (Chinese Dress) / Makeup: Joman Wedding

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Review

Thank you so much Patrick and his team both for your superb work, we are truly amazed by our wedding photos. The photos are absolutely beautiful, you have really captured the atmosphere of the day perfectly and the photography is just gorgeous. There are just so many we love, you managed to capture our special day moment by moment. Every time we look at the images we are reminded of the emotion, the laughs and fun of the day. You were both so professional and discrete and yet captured so many beautiful moments between family and friends. Your sense of calm, care and fun meant that you were a pleasure to work with and we are so happy with everything!

Phoebe & Ricky

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Airports are often associated to travelling and business trips, but it can also be a romantic spot just like how Alan created such a romantic proposal for his girlfriend Shirley.

Alan planned to propose to Shirley before their holiday trip, and has already contacted me beforehand with the planning.

On the night itself as they were on their way to the airport, we were following them from behind with Shirley still clueless from what was going to happen and change her life.

As they were about to enter the departure hall, Alan mentioned that he wanted to double-check his luggage as he might have forgotten something. He had decorated the suitcase in advance with WILL YOU MARRY ME wordings and filled the case with flower petals and balloons. When he opened the suitcase and knelt in front of Shirley, you could see how surprised and astonished she was as she never expected it to happen at that moment.

Alan made his speech to Shirley and his thoughts on their relationship, mentioning she was the best thing that ever happened to him, and he wanted to treat her like a princess for the rest of her life. And as expected everything turned out to be how it was supposed to be and Shirley said YES!

Being there to shoot the proposal, we were able to witness the whole process and the tears of joy from both the lovebirds. This will definitely be one of the most memorable trips Alan and Shirley will have and I wish them eternal happiness in their journey together in life.

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Couples who decide to have outdoor garden weddings often have a certain love-hate relationship with the venue. Brides LOVE it, as many dream to wed in a luscious green lawn that offers picturesque backdrops. But when weather becomes less than ideal, figuring out what to do can be a headache.

Stephanie and Benny had such concerns before the wedding, but I explained to them that the weather would not affect too much as there would be various ongoing activities throughout their wedding day. Photographing the big day and pre-wedding shoots are different, in that the latter is more prone to being affected by gloomy weather as it mainly consists of shooting the couple in outdoor environments. However, on the big day itself, photographs mainly consist of the interactions and emotions of guests and the happenings. Nevertheless, it is important to enjoy the moment and be present, regardless of whatever hiccups that may occur.

It was drizzling in the morning, but the rain stopped in the afternoon and we were able to do some outdoor shooting. The wedding venue was in Sheung Shui Beas River, one of my favorite locations as it has a calm environment with open spaces that makes you feel at peace. It is one of the very few places in Hong Kong where you feel like you have been transported to another country or paradise.

The couples exchanged their vows surrounded by breathtaking views in front of their guests. There were many special moments that touched the hearts of everyone at the wedding, particularly when Stephanie’s father gave her way to Benny and the intimate connection between the bride and groom when they made their speeches.

Side note: We received a thank you message and Peninsula hamper from the lovely Stephanie and Benny two days after the wedding. It always gives us motivation and a sense of accomplishment knowing that my team and I have been able to please and help them document their big moments. Thank you again for trusting us and may the both of you live happily ever after!

Venue: Beas River Country Club (Jockey Club) | Makeup & Hair: Jacky Ip  |  Bridal & Evening Wear: Amire the Bridal Closet | Celebrant: Anthony CT Lam 

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