Pre-Wedding Photography Session near Tokyo Tower and at the International Forum in Tokyo, Japan
I was contacted in June by a couple that wanted to have a Pre-Wedding Photoshoot. Tracy & Justin came to Japan from the United States and wanted to create lifetime memories, as well as stunning pictures to be used for their wedding, before they head back to the states where they would open their clinic as ophthalmologists. After consulting with them to see what would be the best location for the kind of pictures that they wanted to create, we decided to head to Tokyo Tower for Golden Hour, as well as the international forum and the streets of Yurakucho for night shots.
1 - Shiba Prince Park
We met at the park at around 5PM. During that season, it is the perfect time to get some nice golden light and really take advantage of the fact that there are not many buildings in the area. We were very lucky that day as it had been raining a lot the previous day, and the atmosphere and conditions were the best that I have experienced in that location so far - no particle in the atmosphere and a gorgeous light. So I first explained to them what we would be doing in this location and we started to shoot.
We first focused on candid shots. I always prefer doing so with my couples as it usually takes time to warm up to the camera and be relaxed. They warmed up to it very fast though, and the walking shots that we managed to create were done really quick - which was good because the temperature was pretty high. So we had time to take some breaks here and there to freshen up and stay cool in the shadow.
Both me and the couple were very happy with these shots - the light was hitting them just right and it really made for very golden hour type of shots, which is exactly what they wanted to begin with.
We then focused on more posed shots. This time, I spent more time directing them and making sure that they were comfortable, at ease and that the poses looked natural as well. I know that a lot of photographers are very tough and rough in terms of communications when it comes to direction. I have had this experience in the past and I hate it. Couples are not trained models and it is important to take time to explain the pose and adjust accordingly, while making them feel comfortable.
And I think that the fact that they were happy with both the poses as well as the experience can be seen in those shots.
We also used the small garden at the Shiba Prince Park. Unfortunately, there were no roses at that time but still, I really enjoy this space as it feels very intimate and the arches really put the emphasis on the couple, their relationship and automatically get them closer together, which makes for great shots and memories!
2 - Tokyo International Forum
After we were done at the Shiba Prince Park, we made our way to the International Forum. I love this building because of its unique architecture and the huge amount of light coming of all of its windows. It makes for amazing shots that really feel out of this reality, and really helps creating modern shots with unique background. We made our way to the last floor of the building. From there, you get an amazing vantage point. And it did not disappoint!
The colors, the light and the overall atmosphere there made for an amazing set of shots. We took both candid and posed shots and I think that the colors of their clothes really went very well with the overall atmosphere of the place.
3 - Yurakucho and its surroundings
Finally, we made our way to Yurakucho, after sunset to take some night street shots. These were more relaxed shots to really showcase the environment and atmosphere of Tokyo at night. What do you think about them?
If you are looking for a pre-wedding photoshoot in Tokyo, feel free to contact me. I will make sure to consult with you and help you choose the perfect locations, time and more to create the best memories in Tokyo.
