The photo shoot this time was more elaborate than any surprise proposal I’ve done before, so I’d like to share this memorable experience.

It was a surprise proposal request, and the location was a room in a hotel in Arashiyama, Kyoto. The client, a gentleman, requested to set up cameras in the room to capture the moment of the proposal on video. It was my first time receiving such a request, so I was a bit anxious about whether I could do it or not. However, we had various meetings over an extended period, and the day finally arrived.

I waited for them at the hotel’s restaurant. By the way, the meal was outstanding, and he had made a reservation for me as well. At the perfect timing after the meal, I went to the hotel room with him, where we prepared meticulously by creating a heart with petals, arranging candles in the room, and setting up the cameras. I left the room, and she entered shortly afterward. A few minutes later, I received a message from him saying, “Surprise successful!” so I returned to the room to congratulate them. We took videos and photos in the room and garden, spending a joyful time together.

The next day, we had a shoot in Gion from the morning and talked about various things in the two-hour period. It was truly an enjoyable time, and after the shoot, I felt like I wanted to continue the conversation. They were a couple who respected Japanese culture, friendly and kind. I look forward to meeting them again in Japan. Thank you so much for the two days!