Photographed somewhere between 1857 and 1858, the Peranakans were some of the earliest subject for pioneer European photographers. Amek Gambar translates to “taking pictures.” Peranakans were among those intrigued by photography, not to mention being able to afford this emerging expensive technology. Photography today had become much more affordable and we celebrate important family milestones with photoshoots. How would you Prepare peranakan theme photoshoot apart from donning the traditional kebaya? Read on!
Content
1, Colonial Peranakan Shophouse Space
2, Professional Photographer
3, Peranakan Outfits – What to prepare?
4, Where to buy Peranakan Kebaya and batik?
5, Which Peranakan Accessories should I prepare?
#1 Colonial Peranakan Shophouse space
Finding the right space for your Peranakan Theme photoshoot, be it to pay homage to your heritage or simply because you love the rich culture, is important. Contemporary with bright airy natural light, wooden flooring and vintage wooden furniture are among the key features of a Peranakan interior.
#2 Professional Photographer
Oh Dear Studio is a true boutique photography studio set up and run by Melody. With over 11 years of photography and digital-imaging experiences, Melody’s expertise lies in crafting timeless photographs using natural light. Since young, she had been fascinated by the warm culture of the Babas and Nyonyas. As a Mother-of-two, she has a natural flair for working with young children.
#3 Peranakan Outfits – What to prepare?
A Nyonyas’s top is call “baju kebaya”, and the skirt is known as the “sarong”. The kebaya is worn with a batik sarong and usually with “manek” (beads) shoes. The Kebaya is a beautiful, translucent, embroidered top made with lightweight fabric, (silk or thin cotton, making them light and breathable) adorned with colourful embroidery.
The batik sarong is a large length of cotton fabric sewn together to form a wide tube, usually held with a belt. It is worn by wrapping it around the waist and held together by a belt. Some modern sarongs do come with zippers. Sarongs are usually brightly coloured with motifs such a flowers/ butterflies / phoenix.
#4 Where to buy Peranakan Kebaya and batik?
Here is a small list we had complied, and we hope it might come in useful for you to Prepare peranakan theme photoshoot!
Ratianah
Address: 23 Bussorah St, Singapore 199441
Melody says: “I had bought two kebayas from them before and I do like the central location as well as the warm hospitality of the owner. Large selection and very reasonable pricing!”
Dustbunny Vintage
Address: 2-A Keong Saik Rd., Singapore 089110
Melody says “I love their wide selection of vintage wears as well as custom-made batik dresses. I had bought my very favourite Kebaya from them. Really worth a visit!”
Little Nonya Batik
Address: 1 Coleman St, The Adelphi #02-01, Singapore 179803
Melody says “I visited them and love the large selection there. Ms Della is warm and friendly, I really enjoyed browsing their beautiful collection of all things peranakan! They have a large selection of batik shirts as well. I bought my camisole from them and really like the quality.”
Yeomama
Address: 65 Ubi Road 1 #01-87 Oxley Bizhub 1 Singapore 408729
Melody says “A very popular store that has a huge on-line presence. There’s outfits are quirky and modern. They carry really quality mens batik shirt that are definitely worth the pricing!”
Rumahbebe
Address: 113 East Coast Road Singapore 428803
Melody says “I have not purchased from them before but the selection there is huge. I enjoyed browsing through the beautiful collection. Maybe next time!”
#5 Which Peranakan Accessories should I prepare?
Apart from the Kebaya and sarong for a Peranakan theme photoshoot, I feel the correct accessories will play a very important part as well! While you can use pins for your Kebaya, nothing adds more charm and grace then a set of beautiful Kerosang. I received my first set of Kerosang from my Mother-In-Law and I love how dainty and pretty they are. Here are some Kerosang to compliment your Kebaya!
No outfit is complete without the shoes. Beautiful peranakan beaded slippers really completes the whole look. I love how versatile they are, not to mention easy to walk in!
“I truly believe in immortalising the precious childhood of my children. They grow so fast! So I am frequently taking portraits with them. Photographs are truly memories I can hold.” – Melody
Discuss with Melody how to Prepare Peranakan theme photoshoot and let us tailor a shoot truly bespoke for you!
