Yumay and Ivan
By Pei Aui – Melbourne newborn, maternity, family and couples photographer
In 2017, my first taste into professional photography began with two incredible people: Yumay and Ivan. At the time, photography was just a beloved hobby of mine - a creative outlet I dabbled in while dreaming of something more. Little did I know that this experience would set the stage for my future career and become a cherished memory I would carry with me forever.
Yumay is one of my closest friends, a bond forged back in Year 12 College in Malaysia. Our friendship has weathered the years, growing stronger through university life and adulthood. At one point, she was my neighbor, my dance partner, and even my bridesmaid. Being given the honor to capture her love story with Ivan felt like life coming full circle—a unique privilege that words struggle to encapsulate.
Yumay and Ivan’s trust in me and my brother, who joined me as a second photographer, was truly humbling. This was my first professional shoot, and their faith gave me the confidence to experiment and push creative boundaries. Together, we embarked on a pre-wedding photography journey that was as diverse and vibrant as their love story.
In Melbourne, we started by exploring urbanscapes, capturing candid and cinematic shots in the heart of the city. Melbourne University, Yumay’s alma mater, served as a nostalgic and meaningful backdrop for some of the photos. To honor their cultural heritage, we incorporated a Chinese-themed shoot at New Shanghai in Emporium, which added a touch of elegance and tradition.
Our most adventurous session took us on a road trip to Warburton. The serene redwood forest provided a stunning, almost otherworldly setting that perfectly contrasted with the bustling city scenes. These moments, experimenting with light, textures, and compositions, felt like a creative awakening.
When it came time for their wedding in Phuket, Thailand, my role became even more special. I wasn’t just their photographer; I was also a bridesmaid. Balancing these two roles was both challenging and exhilarating. I had the joy of capturing intimate behind-the-scenes moments of the bridal party preparing, emotions running high, and the quiet excitement before the ceremony. The tropical setting and vibrant celebration added another layer of magic to an already unforgettable experience.
Looking back, this journey wasn’t just about documenting Yumay and Ivan’s story—it was about discovering my own. It was my first taste of the joy, responsibility, and artistry that comes with professional photography. Yumay and Ivan gave me a gift far greater than I could have imagined: the opportunity to transform a passion into a purpose.
To Yumay and Ivan: thank you for believing in me, for being my first clients, and for allowing me to tell your story through my lens. Your love and friendship mean the world to me, and I will always treasure the memories we created together. Lastly, happy 7th Anniversary to both of you!