How far in advance should we book?
For cherry blossom (late March–early April) and autumn leaves (November), we recommend reserving 4–6 months ahead — sakura dates begin filling the previous autumn. For other seasons, 6–8 weeks is usually comfortable, and we welcome shorter-notice requests when the calendar allows.
Do you speak English? What about Chinese or Korean?
Yes. We work with couples in English, Traditional and Simplified Chinese, Korean and Japanese — from your very first message through to the shoot day itself. Planning happens in writing over chat, so nothing is lost along the way. On the day, if you would like one, an interpreter who speaks English, Mandarin or Cantonese stays with you from start to finish, included in the price. You will never be standing on a shoot in Japan wondering what was just said.
Are kimono, dress and hair & make-up really included?
Yes. Every package includes your outfit (kimono or dress by plan), professional dressing, and hair & make-up. You only need to bring yourselves.
Can we choose our locations?
Yes — each package lists its location scope, and we plan the exact spots together based on season, permits and your wishes. Famous locations in Japan often require official photography permits; applying and paying for those is our job, included in your package.
When do we receive our photos and film?
Retouched photos are delivered within 3–4 weeks via online gallery. Your cinematic film and vertical reel follow within 4–5 weeks (Signature and Premium).
How do we pay?
By card through a secure Stripe payment link, in Japanese yen. Full payment confirms your reservation. You will see our full terms in writing, and confirm them, before anything is charged — nothing is buried.
What if we have to cancel, or change our date?
If you cancel, we refund 90% of what you paid — whatever the reason, and whenever you tell us. The remaining 10% covers payment processing and administration. If you would rather keep the money with us, we hold
100% of it as a credit, good for a shoot any time up to the same season next year. Changing your date is free once, up to 30 days before your shoot; from 29 to 8 days before there is a ¥30,000 change fee; inside 7 days the date can no longer be moved. The
full booking terms are published on this site, and you confirm them before anything is charged.
Can you photograph a real Shinto ceremony?
We photograph shrine portrait shoots in full traditional dress with official permits. If you are planning an actual ceremony, contact us — we can discuss photography for it depending on the shrine's rules.
We're not comfortable posing. Is that a problem?
It is the normal case. Our photographers direct gently — walking, talking, small prompts — so the photographs look like the two of you, not a pose.
Can you help us plan the rest of our trip — hotels, food and getting around?
Yes, gladly. Over chat we recommend hotels and restaurants by area and by the kind of food you love, suggest sightseeing spots and a route that fits around your shoot, tell you how much time to allow, and share the small things worth knowing before you go. We explain exactly how to reach each location, and can recommend restaurants for a celebration dinner by area and cuisine.
It's our first time in Japan. Will we be okay?
Yes. From your first message you have one point of contact, suggestions for where to stay, eat and go, and an interpreter by your side on the shoot day if you would like one. Our aim is simple: that your whole trip, not only the shoot, becomes one of the best memories of your lives. Whatever we can do to make that happen, we will.
