Monthly Archives: March 2026

A cinematic and documentary photography series of Claire and April's same-sex winter elopement at Chongli Ski Resort, China. This minimalist wedding strips away traditional routines, featuring snowboarding in powder snow, intimate moments with their golden retrievers, and a legal online marriage ceremony via the Courtly platform by a cozy fireplace. Captured with a non-intrusive, lifestyle storytelling approach by Vincent Ma Visuals, a trusted LGBTQ-friendly photographer based in Beijing.

A Private Covenant in the Snow:Minimalist Same-Sex Elopement and Courtly Online Ceremony

Why Choosing an LGBTQ Friendly Photographer in Beijing Matters for Documentary Weddings Finding a truly LGBTQ friendly photographer in Beijing who understands the nuances of an intimate, non-traditional ceremony is essential for couples like Claire and April. Their recent wedding at the Chongli Ski Resort was a masterclass in minimalism, blending a snowy mountain adventure with a quiet, digital legal ceremony. At an altitude of two thousand meters, the wind is fierce, but love is tangible. When a wedding is […]

Mother and daughter in pink Hanfu costumes playing with traditional fans under blooming spring peach blossoms at the Summer Palace.

Spring at the Summer Palace: A US Family’s Hanfu Photoshoot Guide

Experiencing China, Not Just Visiting When the Truman family traveled from the United States to Beijing, they wanted an authentic cultural experience. A Summer Palace Hanfu Photoshoot was the perfect way to capture their spring vacation. Spring in Beijing is incredibly short but breathtaking, with vibrant pink peach and cherry blossoms framing the ancient imperial architecture. To make their visit truly unforgettable, we planned a traditional Hanfu (ancient Chinese clothing) family photoshoot at the Summer Palace. Rather than stiff, awkward poses, this session was […]

US family of three with toddler laughing in front of the Hall of Supreme Harmony at Forbidden City, blue sky and no tourists.Family photography by Vincent Ma

Forbidden City Family Photoshoot Guide: How to Beat the Crowds & Capture the Morning Glow

Is it Possible to Have the Forbidden City All to Yourself? When planning a family trip to Beijing, most travelers have one major fear: The Crowds. Especially for a family traveling from the United States with a toddler, navigating through thousands of tourists can be stressful. But as a local Beijing photographer, I know the secret to a peaceful, royal experience. Recently, I had the pleasure of photographing a lovely American family of three. They wanted to capture their first trip to China but […]