There are tonnes of photographers in town these days (they usually stick out like a sore thumb with their ginormous cameras or carrying their smartphones and snapping at everything they see) but it’s not often you get to come across a talented individual who manages to bring a photo to life. Isa of Isa Photography, another ex-professional who ditched the legal world (can you hear the cheers?) has done just that. Her fresh take on engagement shoots focuses on the couple’s genuine happiness and love story whilst giving off a playful vibe at the same time.

Before the couples go in front of the camera, Isa talks to them at length to get the know them and plan the photo session, from styling to clothes and props. Sometimes couples are shy (c’mon, not everyone dreams to be a celeb or model) and Isa’s trick “is just to make them feel like I’m not there and let them sit, chat and laugh”. The relaxed nature of Isa’s photos have been inspired by Jose Villa and Jonathan Canlas, two film photographers (not many do that nowadays!) who have, in Isa’s words “the ability to go beyond the aesthetics of a photo and really unwrap and present a relationship as it really is”. Bravo, because Isa has got it right. One of my favourites is her capture of young love, Michelle & Andy, whose affection for each other just shines from their eyes and their smiles. It goes to show that you don’t need a dramatic background in order to achieve beautiful photos. When you’re in love, nothing else in the world matters.

p.s. Isa Photography can now be found at Localiiz, the Hong Kong directory for all your lifestyle needs!