I understand that visiting Tokyo for the first time can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re unfamiliar with the pace and layout of the city. I usually start by asking for your hotel location and then plan a shooting route based on that. Of course, if you have specific places in mind, I’m always happy to discuss and plan together.
Of course. However, I’d like to highlight a few important considerations. I understand that many visitors have specific images of Tokyo they hope to capture, but some locations may not be suitable for families with children. For example, many izakayas operate at night, allow indoor smoking, and explicitly do not admit guests under 18. In other cases, certain streets have heavy traffic, which may not be safe for young children. For this reason, I recommend sharing your references first so we can review and discuss what will work best together.
You are welcome to bring a stroller. Please note that when using trains or subways, it may take extra time to locate elevators, which can slightly affect travel time.
If the rain is light, I usually proceed with the session. However, I understand that this may not be convenient for families with children. I typically monitor the weather about one week in advance. If the conditions are not suitable for shooting, we will try to adjust the schedule together. If rescheduling is not possible, the session will need to be canceled.
Kimono rental is arranged separately, but the process is very straightforward.
After you book your photoshoot with me, I will send you a list of recommended kimono rental shops near our shooting area. You can choose the shop you prefer and make the reservation directly with them.
On the day of the session, you’ll visit the kimono shop first for dressing and styling, which usually takes about 45–60 minutes. After that, we’ll meet nearby and begin the photoshoot at carefully selected locations around the area.
In the Tokyo area, most kimono rental shops are concentrated around Asakusa. If you find Senso-ji too crowded, you can change into your kimono in Asakusa and then travel to another location for the photoshoot. Outside central Tokyo, there are also excellent kimono-friendly destinations in the Kanto region, such as Kawagoe in Saitama, Kamakura in Kanagawa, and Narita or Sawara in Chiba. These areas offer historic streets and temples, are generally less crowded than Tokyo, and are especially suitable for families.
I do not have formal partnerships with kimono rental shops. However, I can recommend several shops that previous clients have used and spoken highly of. I will share these recommendations during our booking communication.
The gallery will be delivered usually in about 2-3 weeks after the session.
The photos will be delivered via an online gallery. You will be able to view and download the images using the access code I provide.
I generally don’t have specific outfits suggestion. However, I recommend staying within a similar color palette. Neutral tones such as white, denim, and earthy colors photograph especially well. Coordinated outfits within the family are always encouraged.
In Japan, it is quite common for shrines, temples, gardens, and even some public parks to require prior permission for professional photography. Some locations may also charge a photography fee, require advance reservations, or restrict commercial shoots altogether. This is a normal part of shooting in Japan and varies depending on the location. If you have a specific place in mind, please let me know in advance so I can advise whether permission may be needed. Any permit fees, entrance fees, or reservation costs are usually covered by the client.
For busy areas such as Asakusa or Shibuya, I usually recommend early morning (around 7AM) or later in the evening. These off-peak hours offer a more relaxed atmosphere, fewer crowds, and a much smoother experience — especially for families with young children.
Yes ! absolutely. My sessions are designed to be relaxed, flexible, and child led. I always follow your child’s pace as much as possible and focus on capturing natural moments rather than forcing perfect poses. With little ones, genuine connection always matters more than strict posing.
My editing style is natural, soft, and true to the work shown in my portfolio. Basic editing and color grading are included, but extensive retouching, body reshaping, or major object/background removal are not included unless discussed in advance.
Yes! if family members are accompanying you, I’m usually happy to include a few quick photos together as long as it fits naturally within the session flow. Please note that the session will remain focused on the original booking. If accompanying family members are expected to be included throughout the session as active participants, this may be considered full group coverage rather than just a few extra shots. In that case, group pricing may apply. Sessions include up to 5 guests; a 20 percent surcharge applies for 6 to 9 guests, and a 30 percent surcharge applies for 10 or more.
Cherry blossom season is very short and changes every year depending on weather and temperature, so full bloom cannot be guaranteed during your session date. If bloom conditions change unexpectedly, I kindly ask clients to be flexible with locations and timing so we can create the best possible atmosphere for your photos.
Outdoor sessions are influenced by real world conditions such as weather, crowds, lighting, seasonal changes, temporary closures, and construction. Because of this, exact backgrounds, lighting, or photo variety cannot always be guaranteed. I kindly ask clients to stay flexible with timing, pacing, and locations so we can create the best possible experience and photographs together.
Sometimes the unexpected moments become the most memorable part of the story.
Please be prepared for some walking during the session, as many photo locations in Japan are connected by streets, parks, shrines, or small pathways.
Comfortable shoes are highly recommended, especially for families with young children or guests wearing kimono.