“Audrey has never been to Japan before while I’ve not experienced the Sakura season; which we heard is very beautiful.
We were also attracted to their unique culture and Kyoto’s historical charm. It wasn’t difficult choosing Japan.”
“Moreover, it helped that our preferred photographer was already going to be in Japan, and was offering a promotional price so we didn’t need to pay for their travel expenses.”
“For the cost-conscious couples, you can consider overseas based photographers (so that you won’t need to fork out their travel expenses), and even go on a holiday alongside your pre-wedding shoot.”
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“There are many social platforms available now, where you can see the portfolios of various photographers, as well as testimonials from their past clients.
These ended up being important points of references and assurances for us.”
“We did quite a bit of research and Maxtu Photography seemed the ideal choice for us in terms of pricing and the photography style we were looking for.”
“Most of our early communication was through WhatsApp but it helped that we have family over at Indonesia.
We had a relative visit their workplace to ensure that they are the real deal before we made our down payment.”
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“Our luggage! We had to carry quite a number of heavy luggage over to Osaka and Kyoto by Shinkansen from Tokyo, and subsequently around Kyoto during our shoot.
Moreover, the Kyoto shoot locations were teeming with tourists. Getting the perfectly framed shot proved a challenge.
Thankfully, Audrey’s parents and our makeup artist came to our rescue by holding the crowd. Most of them were very understanding and patient, allowing us the time to take that dream shot.”
“Another challenge we faced was the availability of changing areas.
There was once where we had to change in a dark corner of an apartment’s basement carpark.
The toilets and facilities in Japan are fairly compact in general so some improvisation was needed.”
“It was also a struggle to get to Lake Kawaguchiko.
We didn’t expect our expected transport modes to be fully booked so we had to switch multiple train lines with our gear and luggage to get there.”
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“The night shoot at the Shibuya crossing was also tricky.
We only had about a minute before the traffic light switches and we needed help with managing the crowds crossing.”
“The most memorable of all locations has to be Lake Kawaguchiko, with its stunning view of Mount Fuji and the Sakura trees in full bloom.”
“The moments we shared and the photographs taken there will undoubtedly be one of the highlights of our lives. You really have to see it in person!”
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“The photos taken at Tokyo’s Shibuya crossing also turned out amazing with its colours from the bright lights and bustling traffic.
If you decide to have a shoot there, you really should take it at night.”
“Have an itinerary and plan it well. Not only on where to go, but how you are going to get around!
Taxis in Tokyo are not cheap but there are many forms of transport available. More importantly, be sure to make advance bookings for them.
Kyoto’s shoot locations are fairly near to one another and you can consider taking a combination of trains and taxis, since taxi fares there are a little more affordable.
If you have the budget, you can consider hiring a private transport to bring you to all your locations conveniently.
This is an especially important consideration if you have heavy gowns and a lot of things to carry for your shoot.”
Pre-wedding portraits of Audrey Sungkono & Leon Thio
Credits & Vendors
Photographer: Maxtu Photography
Make Up & Hair: Makeup By Jen
Suits & Gown: La Belle Couture
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