I had the pleasure of doing a wonderful family photoshoot in Kyoto’s Gion area. To avoid the crowds, we met early in the morning and started the session right away. The family was traveling in Japan with a very small baby, and the moment I met her, I was completely captivated—she was such an adorable little one.

Both parents were calm, cheerful, and had beautiful smiles. They wanted photos with traditional Japanese buildings and scenery, so we began the shoot in a part of Gion that requires a photography permit. They loved the location, and we captured many different angles and styles there. I photographed the parents lifting the baby high to make her smile, and natural moments of them walking together with joy.

Afterwards, we walked to areas with historic buildings and also a large park for more shots. The one-hour session was full and productive, and the baby was in a great mood, cooperating perfectly. As a result, we captured many beautiful photos. The family loved the pictures and said they were exactly what they had hoped for, which made me feel so happy and grateful to be chosen as their photographer.

I hope they come back to Japan again—I would love to photograph them again!