Love Wins: A Special Hakone Proposal
Jesús reached out with an exciting and deeply personal request. He and his partner, Cesar, were traveling in Japan and wanted to ensure they found a photographer who would celebrate their love story exactly as it was. As an LGBT couple, they wanted to work with someone who embraced inclusivity wholeheartedly. I couldn't have been more honored when they chose me to capture this milestone moment.
What made this story even more special was the timeline. Jesús and Cesar were traveling to Japan with just one precious day in Hakone on May 22nd before departing the following day. And I knew we had to create something magical within this limited window.
Finding the Perfect Hakone Setting
During our planning conversations through email and WhatsApp, we explored several breathtaking locations around Hakone. Lake Ashi, with its iconic torii gate, the dramatic heights of Komagatake, and the serene beauty of Onshi Park, offered something unique for a special moment.
After discussing his vision and what would feel most authentic to their story, we settled on Onshi Park as our starting point. There's something incredibly romantic about Onshi Park in late May. The spring foliage and the views of Lake Ashi provide a stunning backdrop that feels both intimate and grand. We planned for an afternoon start time after 12:00 PM noon, allowing them to arrive comfortably by train and settle into the moment without any rush.
The Day Everything Came Together
What unfolded that afternoon was pure magic. At Onshi Park, where the natural beauty created the perfect intimate setting for the proposal. The way the light filtered through the trees and the gentle sounds of nature around us all contributed to a moment that felt completely theirs.
Those precious moments by the lake, up into the mountains where the elevated views, gave us an entirely different perspective and energy for the photos.
The beauty of working with couples like Jesús and his partner is witnessing how love transcends everything. Through my lens, I captured a proposal and a celebration of two people choosing each other against the backdrop of Japan's most romantic scenery.
Let's Create Memories That Last Forever
A few days after their session, I received a message that filled my heart: "By the way, we love our pictures!!! You are amazing, thank you very much!!!"
These moments remind me why I fell in love with photography in the first place. Every love story deserves to be celebrated beautifully, regardless of who you are or where you come from. Whether you're planning a surprise proposal in Hakone's stunning landscapes or looking to commemorate your engagement somewhere equally special, I'm here to ensure your unique story is captured with the care, respect, and artistry it deserves. Let's create something unforgettable together!
