Intimate Garden Engagement in Tokyo: Kevin & Angeli’s Morning at Rikugien
Kevin and Angeli were looking for something serene, specifically a quiet moment in the heart of Tokyo that felt personal and peaceful. Privacy was a top priority, and I was happy to help make that happen.
We explored a few ideas together, from well-known landmarks to lesser-trodden paths. Kevin was open to suggestions but asked specifically if Rikugien Garden could offer the sense of seclusion they were after.
I recommended we visit early in the morning when the garden is calm, with minimal foot traffic and soft, flattering light. I also shared a sample proposal shoot I had previously done there to help them visualize how their photos could look.
After some back and forth, we locked in Rikugien for their special moment. To make the most of our time, we added a second location in Nippori for casual street portraits after the garden session. The blend of nature and neighborhood gave them a mix of timeless and modern shots, all within walking distance.
Exploring Nippori: A Hidden Gem for Street Portraits
After the peaceful morning at Rikugien, we headed to Nippori, a lesser-known area that offers so much charm for couples who want a local, Tokyo feel in their portraits.
Nippori is part of the Yanaka district, one of the few neighborhoods in Tokyo that survived the bombings of World War II. This means it still retains a lot of old-town character — narrow alleyways, traditional houses, wooden storefronts, and hand-painted signage. It’s a quiet contrast to the high-rises and neon lights Tokyo is known for, which makes it ideal for laid-back street portraits that feel warm and personal.
Fun fact: Nippori is also home to Yanaka Ginza, a retro shopping street where you’ll find local snacks, vintage shops, and even friendly neighborhood cats roaming around.
With Kevin and Angeli, we kept it natural. Just a walk, a few candid laughs, and moments of connection captured in between. These casual shots became some of their favorites, showing the fun, in-between energy of their relationship.
How Private Do You Want Your Shoot to Be?
Every couple has different comfort levels. Some prefer the buzz of a lively park, while others, like Kevin and Angeli, want a quieter setting. I always let clients know that while completely private spaces are possible, they usually require more coordination and potentially extra costs (like location rental or early access permissions). But even in public places, we can choose the right time of day to make things feel intimate and relaxed.
A more private shoot allows you to fully be yourself, less worry about onlookers and more space to enjoy the moment. It’s ideal for proposals or personal shoots where emotions run high and you want to stay fully present.
Planning something special? Whether dreaming of a public gesture or a private memory, I’ll help tailor your shoot to fit your story.
