Ever wanted to have your pre-wedding photoshoot on the streets of Japan? Josef and Lian did just that. Their photoshoot, inspired by the charming Showa-era aesthetic of their neighborhood’s hidden gem, Shibamata, was a tribute to their love story and to the country that brought them together. Read all about it here.
A Friendship That Stood the Test of Time
Josef and Lian began as high school friends, bonding over shared interests between 2004 and 2008. Their paths crossed again serendipitously in Japan in 2017, where Lian was pursuing her master’s degree and Josef was visiting with his family. This chance reunion reignited their friendship, which eventually blossomed into a love story after Lian graduated and returned home.
As fate would have it, their shared love for Japan continued to weave itself into their lives. They returned on new terms and eventually built their home in Kanamachi, Tokyo. “Eventually we planned to go back to Japan on different terms. Him, on a language student visa and me, on a scholarship. As you would have it, Japan and its soft power had influences in our relationship as our shared interests are what kept our friendship thriving,” says Lian.
A Showa-Era Dream in Shibamata
Shibamata, often referred to as a lesser-known Asakusa, set the perfect stage for their Japan pre-wedding shoot. Walking around the area was like stepping back in time, so the location echoed the timelessness of their relationship.
Josef and Lian chose a theme reminiscent of the Showa era, adding a few modern touches to highlight their love story. Lian’s classic rockabilly dress and Josef’s elegant suit perfectly complemented the setting, creating a harmonious blend of personality and place.
“We wanted the aesthetic to feel authentic and personal,” Lian shared. “In the end, it even resembled Gen Hoshino’s Koi music video, which made it feel extra special.”
Planning a Japan Pre-Wedding Photoshoot
Planning a photoshoot abroad can be quite difficult, especially if you’re coordinating with suppliers back and forth. Lian and Josef encountered their share of hiccups. Their hair and makeup artist canceled on the morning of the shoot, leaving them scrambling and looking for alternatives. But with quick thinking and a bit of luck, they found a salon one train station away that was able to pull off the look Lian wanted.
“It could’ve been stressful, but because the shoot felt like a collaboration among friends, it was more of an adventure,” said Lian. Their photographer, Shota Minami, was a friend of a friend and he traveled from Osaka. Because everyone was relaxed, the experience was lighthearted and pressure-free.
A Personal and Collaborative Experience
For Lian and Josef, their Japan pre-wedding shoot was more than just a series of snapshots. It was a celebration of their shared journey, thoughtfully curated and executed with the help of friends and talented professionals.
“Make it a friendship activity if you can,” Lian advises other couples. “Our comfort with our team really shone through in the photos, and that’s what made it so memorable.”
Want to share about a pre-wedding photoshoot that’s truly inspiring? Reach out to us at Themes & Motifs!
Note: Inspirations.ph features unique places around world in its TRAVEL BUCKET LIST section to share prenup photoshoot ideas, honeymoon getaways, wedding venues, and travel destinations that are off the beaten track. #BeInspiredStayInspired
