FAQ
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q1 Do you have any English-speaking staff?
- For online consultations, an English-speaking interpreter will join to support you. For email inquiries, our staff will respond in English. We have supported many international customers, so please feel free to reach out with confidence.
- Q2 When is the best time to book a pre-wedding photoshoot?
- We recommend booking 1–2 months in advance so you can choose your preferred date and location. Popular seasons such as cherry blossom, fresh greenery, and autumn leaves tend to fill up quickly, so booking 3–6 months ahead is best if your travel dates allow it.
- Q3 What is Wedding Avenue's philosophy or commitment when it comes to photography?
- WEDDING AVE. Co., Ltd. is now a dedicated wedding photography studio, but we actually started out as a wedding hall. We opened our wedding hall in 2006 and transitioned into wedding photography in 2013. Even our signature "First Meet" moment — a surprise reveal between the bride and groom before the ceremony — was originally a tradition from our wedding hall days, and we were the first studio in the industry to bring it into photo weddings. With genuine hospitality and a commitment to treating every couple as uniquely special, we have had the honor of celebrating around 20,000 wonderful couples to date.
- Q4 What's the average cost of a pre-wedding photoshoot?
- Our studio plans start from ¥94,380 (tax included). The most popular price range is around ¥100,000–¥150,000 for studio photoshoots and ¥150,000–¥200,000 for location photoshoots (excluding facility usage fees and taxi fares) once outfits and options are included. We're happy to give you a personalized estimate before you decide.
- Q5 Why can you offer such reasonable prices?
- By handling everything in-house, all the way through to the photoshoot itself, we keep our operations efficient. We also avoid spending on portal sites and other unnecessary advertising, relying only on our own direct marketing to reach couples — which is how we're able to offer beautiful photo weddings at such reasonable prices.
- Q6 What kind of photographers, hair/makeup artists, and dressers work at Wedding Avenue?
- Because we originally operated as a wedding hall, our team includes many seasoned bridal professionals. This means we're just as skilled at studio photography as we are at family portraits and location shoots that incorporate bride-and-groom photography styles. Our staff are true professionals driven by a shared passion for delivering that unforgettable, emotional moment to every couple.
- Q7 Are there any additional fees beyond the plan price?
- Outfits included in your plan carry no extra charge. Optional upgrades (premium dresses, extra locations, expedited delivery, etc.) are available and will always be explained clearly before you decide, so there are no surprise charges.
- Q8 Is there a surcharge for weekends or holidays?
- Yes. A weekend/holiday surcharge of ¥11,000 applies for studio shoots and ¥22,000 for location shoots. As part of our current campaign, location shoots booked and confirmed on the day of your consultation can receive 50% off this surcharge.
- Q9 Is there a cancellation fee?
- A cancellation fee applies based on how many days remain before your shoot date: 30 days or more before — free of charge; 29–15 days before — 30% of the total estimate; 14–8 days before — 50% of the total estimate; 7 days before to the day prior — 80% of the total estimate; on the day of the shoot — 100% of the total estimate. Please rest assured that cancellations made 30 days or more in advance are completely free. Since travel plans can change, please contact us as early as possible if you need to cancel or reschedule.
- Q10 Is it possible to have family members or pets join the photoshoot?
- Yes, it is possible. There is an additional charge of ¥5,500 for family photos and ¥11,000 for pet photos. Our Family Photo plan and Pet plan already include this additional fee in the plan price.
- Q11 Can we take photos in both Western and Japanese attire?
- Yes, absolutely. Many couples enjoy combining a Western wedding dress with a traditional kimono in the same shoot for a memorable contrast of styles.
- Q12 Is hair and makeup included in the plan price?
- Yes, professional hair and makeup styling is included in all of our plans at no extra charge.
- Q13 What is the best season for a pre-wedding photoshoot?
- Cherry blossoms (late March–early April) and autumn foliage (November) are especially popular, but Japan has something beautiful in every season — from fresh summer greenery to Mt. Fuji's snow-capped winter scenery — so we're happy to suggest the best option for your travel dates.
- Q14 Why do couples choose WEDDING AVENUE?
- Couples choose us for our stylish studios, wide selection of Western and Japanese outfits, professional photographers experienced with international guests, and our commitment to reasonable, transparent pricing.
- Q15 Can family or friends come along to watch the shoot?
- Yes, family members or friends are welcome to come along and watch the shoot, as long as it doesn't interfere with the photographer's work.
- Q16 What if we're not used to posing for photos?
- Don't worry — our photographers are experienced at guiding couples naturally through poses and expressions, so you don't need any prior experience in front of the camera.
- Q17 Do you offer a video plan alongside photography?
- Yes, we offer a video plan that captures your photoshoot in motion — please see our Videography section for details.
- Q18 Is it possible to add a chapel ceremony experience to our photoshoot?
- Yes, we offer plans that combine a chapel photoshoot with your session, giving you a taste of a real wedding ceremony — please see our Plans section for details.
- Q19 Can we request extra retouching for skin or arms?
- Yes, we offer a popular natural AI retouching service for skin and arms — please see our Payment & Other section for details.
- Q20 Does someone accompany us throughout the day to help with translation or directions?
- Yes, our staff and photographers are experienced in supporting international guests, and an interpreter is available for your consultation to make sure everything is clear from start to finish.
LOCATIONS
Popular Locations for International Guests
- Q1 Our Tokyo studio — about a 10-minute walk from Tokyo Station
- Our main Tokyo studio is about a 10-minute walk from Tokyo Station (Yaesu exit), making it easy to reach right after you land or between sightseeing. The modern, stylish interior is perfect for both Western and Japanese-style studio photography.
- Q2 How do I get to the Tokyo Station studio?
- Exit Tokyo Station via the Yaesu Central Exit, walk straight down Yaesu-dori, and the studio is on your left — one of the most convenient locations for international couples with a tight travel schedule.
- Q3 Kyoto — timeless streets and traditional beauty
- Kyoto offers a beautifully traditional backdrop — from the historic streets of Higashiyama and Gion to the Kamo River and Bishamon-do shrine. A kimono photoshoot here captures the timeless spirit of Japan.
- Q4 When is the best time to shoot in Kyoto?
- Spring cherry blossoms and autumn foliage make Kyoto especially magical, though its historic streets are beautiful year-round.
- Q5 Mt. Fuji — Japan's iconic backdrop
- Few images capture Japan like a wedding photo with Mt. Fuji in the background. This location plan offers a dramatic, unforgettable setting for couples who want a truly iconic Japanese memory.
- Q6 What's the best season to photograph Mt. Fuji?
- Mt. Fuji is most clearly visible in the cooler, drier months (autumn through early spring), which also tend to offer the crispest, most striking photos.
- Q7 Okinawa — tropical beaches and turquoise seas
- For couples who want a resort-style photo wedding, Okinawa's white sand beaches and turquoise waters offer a completely different, tropical atmosphere from mainland Japan.
- Q8 Can I combine Okinawa with a mainland studio shoot?
- Yes, many couples combine a studio shoot in Tokyo with a location shoot in Okinawa as part of their trip, capturing two very different styles of memories.
- Q9 Kobe — a stylish blend of Japanese and Western charm
- Kobe is known for its stylish fusion of Japanese and Western architecture. Highlights include the fashionable Kyu-Kyoryuchi (former foreign settlement), the elegant Guggenheim House, and the tranquil Nunobiki Herb Garden.
- Q10 How far is Kobe from our Tokyo studio?
- Kobe is reachable from Tokyo by Shinkansen (bullet train) in around 3 hours, making it a popular add-on for couples who want to combine a Tokyo studio shoot with a Kansai location shoot.
CONSULTATION
Consultation & Reservation
- Q1 How many days in advance do I need to make a reservation?
- Depending on availability, it is possible to arrange a photoshoot even with an inquiry made one week in advance, as long as the arrangements can be completed.
- Q2 Is it possible to make a reservation on behalf of a travel agency, relative, or friend?
- Of course, it is possible.
- Q3 Can I have an online consultation?
- Yes. Online consultations are available, and an English-speaking interpreter will join to make sure everything is clearly explained and easy to follow.
- Q4 Can I consult only by email?
- Yes, many international guests handle their entire consultation, quote, and outfit selection by email before their trip. We'll guide you step by step so nothing feels complicated.
- Q5 Do I need to visit the studio in person before my shoot?
- No — since most international guests have a short stay in Japan, an in-person visit before the shoot is not required. Everything can be arranged online or by email in advance. That said, if you have time before your shoot, we warmly invite you to come in for an outfit fitting — guests who visit in advance for a fitting receive a complimentary Hands-Free Photo Set (worth approximately ¥20,000) as part of our current campaign. For Western outfits, this includes bridal foundation wear and a rental wing shirt; for Japanese outfits, it includes a hadajuban undergarment, susoyoke underskirt, tabi socks, and a shaping towel — one full set for each of you.
- Q6 Can my family join the online consultation?
- Yes, of course. Family members are welcome to join the online consultation with you.
- Q7 Can I get a quote without committing to a booking?
- Yes, we're happy to provide a no-obligation quote so you can decide at your own pace.
- Q8 Is a deposit required when I apply?
- Yes. For international bookings, a deposit of ¥50,000 is required via a credit card payment link sent by email to confirm your reservation. This is applied toward your total photoshoot cost.
- Q9 Are you open every day?
- We are open year-round except for the New Year holidays, so we can accommodate a wide range of travel schedules.
- Q10 Is there a best day or time to schedule our consultation?
- Weekdays tend to be a little quieter, but we're happy to accommodate weekends as well — just let us know your preferred time and we'll do our best to arrange it.
PLAN
Plans
- Q1 What types of plans are available?
- We offer studio plans, location plans, combined studio & location plans, chapel photoshoot plans, video & photo plans, and 3-outfit / 4-outfit plans, so you can choose the style that best matches your trip and vision.
- Q2 Why are the 3-outfit / 4-outfit plans good value?
- Booking multiple outfits together is more cost-effective than adding them individually, letting you enjoy both Western and Japanese styles — or several different looks — in a single visit.
- Q3 Can I change my plan after booking?
- Yes, we're happy to discuss adjusting your plan after booking, as long as it's before your shoot date.
- Q4 Can I change my shooting location later?
- Yes, please let us know as early as possible if you'd like to change your location, as this requires arranging permits and other logistics with the venue — we'll help take care of the details.
- Q5 Is it possible to bring my own dress?
- The bride's outfit can be brought in for ¥33,000, and the groom's outfit for ¥22,000. If either of you would like to bring in your preferred outfit, please feel free to consult with us. Please note: if you book on the same day, you will receive a 50% discount on the bring-in fee.
- Q6 I'd like a small ceremony as well as photos — is that possible?
- Yes, we offer chapel ceremony-style plans that can be combined with your photoshoot for an experience similar to a real wedding ceremony.
- Q7 Is there a plan combining chapel and studio photos?
- Yes, we offer plans that combine a solemn chapel photoshoot with the flexibility of studio photography in one visit.
- Q8 Are there family photo or pet photo plans?
- Yes, it is possible. There is an additional charge of ¥5,500 for family photos and ¥11,000 for pet photos (included in the total plan price).
- Q9 Can I use the photo wedding service without holding a real wedding ceremony?
- Absolutely. Many of our international guests use our photo wedding service purely to capture beautiful memories, without a formal wedding ceremony.
- Q10 Can I choose my shooting location freely?
- Within our available location plans (Tokyo, Kyoto, Mt. Fuji, Okinawa, Kobe, and more), yes — we'll help you choose the best fit for your travel itinerary.
FITTING & OUTFITS
Fitting & Outfits
- Q1 When can I try on my outfit?
- Since most international guests can't visit in advance, fitting takes place the day before or two days before your shoot. Our stylists will make sure everything fits perfectly before your big day. If you're able to come in for a fitting ahead of time, you'll also receive our complimentary Hands-Free Photo Set as a thank-you for visiting early — please see below for details.
- Q2 Can I choose my outfit from the website before I arrive?
- Yes — please browse our outfit gallery on the website in advance and let us know your favorites. We'll have them ready for you to try on at your fitting appointment (the day before or two days before your shoot).
- Q3 How many outfits can I wear in one day?
- You can choose up to 4 outfits for your shoot. For example: (1) Iro-Uchikake (colored wedding kimono), (2) Shiro-Muku (white wedding kimono), (3) Wedding dress, (4) Colored dress.
- Q4 Do you charge additional fees for dress or kimono?
- The costumes included in the plan are available at no additional cost. Upgraded costumes start from ¥28,000 (tax excluded) for grooms and ¥38,000 (tax excluded) for brides, with over 600 outfits to choose from. Seasonal discounts on upgraded costumes (up to 50% off) are also available.
- Q5 I'm worried my size won't fit — is that okay?
- Please don't worry — we offer a wide range of sizes, and our stylists will make careful adjustments at your fitting to ensure a beautiful, comfortable fit.
- Q6 Is there a "hands-free" set I can use?
- Yes — as a gift for guests who come for their fitting the day before or two days before the shoot, we provide a complete "hands-free set": for Western outfits, bridal foundation wear and a wing shirt; for Japanese outfits, a hadajuban undergarment, susoyoke underskirt, tabi socks, and a shaping towel. Everything you need is included, so you can travel light.
- Q7 Are colored dresses available in many designs?
- Yes, we offer 40 different colored dress designs, from classic shades to the latest trending colors, so you can find the one that matches your vision.
- Q8 Are the costumes kept clean and well maintained?
- Yes, all of our costumes are professionally cleaned and carefully maintained, so you can wear them with complete peace of mind.
- Q9 Can I get advice if I'm not sure which outfit suits me?
- Of course — our experienced stylists are happy to recommend outfits that suit your style, body type, and the location or season of your shoot.
- Q10 Is there a fee for bringing your own accessories or small items?
- Bringing your own small accessories or meaningful keepsakes is free of charge — feel free to bring items that make your photos more personal.
HAIR & MAKEUP
Hair & Makeup
- Q1 When is the hair and makeup style decided?
- We will proceed with the hair and makeup on the day of the shoot while consulting with the hair and makeup artist. If you have any reference photos or images, please bring them along. We also offer an advance hair and makeup rehearsal (¥22,000), as well as a shorter "Rehearsal Lite" option done on the day of the shoot (¥11,000).
- Q2 Is it possible to rent accessories?
- Accessories such as headpieces for both Western and Japanese attire, necklaces, and earrings are available for rental starting from ¥2,200 (tax included).
- Q3 Does the hair and makeup artist stay with us during the shoot?
- Yes, on plans that include on-site touch-ups, our hair and makeup artist will stay with you so that both your hair, makeup, and outfit stay beautifully in place throughout the shoot.
- Q4 Can I change my hairstyle during the shoot?
- Yes, a hair change (¥6,600) is possible depending on your plan, allowing you to enjoy a different look with each outfit.
- Q5 Can the groom also get his hair styled?
- Yes, hair styling for grooms (¥6,600) is available, coordinated to match the overall look of the shoot.
- Q6 How long does hair, makeup, and dressing take?
- This varies by outfit, but please allow roughly 30–60 minutes per look, which is factored into your total shoot schedule.
- Q7 Can you accommodate a specific hairstyle request?
- Yes, please share your preferred hairstyle and length with us in advance or on the day, and we'll do our best to accommodate your request.
- Q8 Can I let you know in advance if I have any allergies?
- Yes, please let us know about any allergies in advance so our hair and makeup team can use suitable products.
- Q9 Should I bring reference photos on the day or in advance?
- Either is fine — you're welcome to send reference photos in advance by email, or simply bring them with you on the day.
- Q10 Will my hairstyle and makeup match my outfit choice?
- Yes, our stylists will coordinate your hair and makeup to complement each outfit you wear during the shoot.
THE PHOTOSHOOT
The Photoshoot
- Q1 How long does the photo shoot take?
- For studio photo shoots, the total time is approximately 3 hours (with shooting time around 1 hour). For location photo shoots, the total time is about 5 hours (with shooting time ranging from 1.5 to 2 hours). Studio and location combined photo shoots take about 7 hours (with shooting time totaling around 2.5 to 3 hours).
- Q2 What happens in case of rain? (For location photo shoots)
- In case of rain, you can change the shooting date any number of times, free of charge. If you wish to change the shooting date, please contact us by 12:00 p.m. the day before.
- Q3 May I use my own camera for the shoot?
- It is fine to take photos as long as it does not interfere with the photographer.
- Q4 What is a chapel photoshoot?
- A chapel photoshoot takes place in a genuine chapel setting, letting you walk the aisle in your wedding dress and capture a moment as moving as a real ceremony — even without holding a full wedding.
- Q5 Why is the chapel photoshoot popular?
- It's especially popular with couples who won't hold a formal ceremony but still want to experience the emotion and atmosphere of walking into a chapel in full wedding attire.
- Q6 What is the "First Meet" moment?
- "First Meet" is a special moment where the groom sees the bride in her finished hair, makeup, and dress for the first time on the day of the shoot — a heartfelt scene many couples treasure.
- Q7 When is the best time to book for cherry blossom season?
- Cherry blossom season (late March to early April) is extremely popular, so we recommend booking 3–6 months in advance if your travel dates align with this period.
- Q8 Is autumn foliage season popular for shoots?
- Yes, November's autumn colors are one of our most requested backdrops, so early booking is recommended.
- Q9 I'm worried I'll wish I'd captured more shots — can you help with that?
- Our photographers are experienced in guiding international guests and will suggest poses and shots you may not have thought of, so you can relax and trust the process.
- Q10 Are photo props available to borrow?
- Yes, we have a selection of photo props available to borrow to add a personal touch to your shoot.
VIDEOGRAPHY
Videography
- Q1 Do you offer a video (cinematic) plan?
- Yes, we offer a plan to capture a beautiful video alongside your photo shoot.
- Q2 Why is the video plan so reasonably priced?
- Since the video is filmed alongside your photography on the same day, there's no need for a separate shoot — keeping the price accessible.
- Q3 Can photo and video be filmed at the same time?
- Yes, video is filmed simultaneously with your photoshoot, so it adds very little extra time to your day.
- Q4 What are the most popular video options?
- Our opening-style highlight video and "First Meet" moment video are especially popular.
- Q5 How long is the video?
- Typically around 1.5 to 3 minutes.
- Q6 What format will I receive the video in?
- You'll receive your video as an Mp4 file.
- Q7 Can background music be added?
- Yes, we can add music that matches the mood you're going for.
- Q8 How can we use our wedding video afterward?
- Many couples play it at their wedding reception, share it on social media, or send it to family — the possibilities are up to you.
- Q9 When will the video be delivered?
- Around 3 weeks after your shoot. Expedited delivery (2-week delivery + ¥11,000) is also available.
- Q10 Does video add much extra time to the shoot?
- Very little — since it's filmed alongside your photos, it adds almost no additional time.
PAYMENT & OTHER
Payment, Delivery & Other
- Q1 When will we receive the data and album?
- The data is processed by the photographer for color correction, and delivery typically takes about 3 weeks from the day of the shoot. Expedited delivery is available for an additional fee.
- Q2 Can albums and wedding items be shipped overseas?
- Albums and physical wedding items can only be ordered by guests who are able to receive them in Japan (for example, during a later trip or through someone in Japan). Digital photo data can be delivered to you regardless of location.
- Q3 Is payment by credit card possible?
- Payment for international bookings is by credit card only, via a secure link sent by email — simple and quick to complete.
- Q4 Is a deposit required?
- Yes, a deposit of ¥50,000 is required for international bookings, paid via a credit card payment link sent by email, to confirm your reservation. This is applied toward your total cost.
- Q5 Why does WEDDING AVENUE place such importance on the final quote?
- We make sure the amount confirmed at booking matches what you'll actually pay, with no hidden surprises — so you can relax and enjoy your experience with full peace of mind.
- Q6 Is skin/arm retouching available?
- Yes, we offer a popular natural AI retouching service, and you're also welcome to do light retouching yourself if you prefer.
- Q7 Can we split the payment between the two of us?
- Yes, this can be arranged — just let us know your preference.
- Q8 Can I change my shooting date?
- Yes, please contact us as early as possible if you need to change your date and we'll do our best to accommodate you.
- Q9 Can I post the photos on social media?
- Yes, you're welcome to share your photos on social media — we'd love to see them! We'd really appreciate it if you could tag us.
- Q10 Is there anything else we should know before our shoot?
- We recommend arriving with clean, dry hair and minimal makeup so our stylists can work with a fresh base — beyond that, just bring your excitement! Our team will guide you through everything else.
Flow
STEP 01
INQUIRY
Please contact us via email with your preferred details:
1. Your travel dates
2.Preferred date for the photoshoot
3.Preferred photoshoot style (dress photoshoot, kimono photoshoot, or both)
4.Preferred shooting location (studio shoot or location shoot)
5.If you prefer a location shoot, please specify your desired shooting location. *Please choose from the available locations listed in each regional location plan.
STEP 02
ESTIMATE
Once we receive your inquiry, we will send you a estimate within 24 hours (excluding regular holidays).
At our store, all processes from inquiry to photoshoot are handled via email. Since we do not have English-speaking staff, it is difficult to communicate via video calls. However, we will provide thorough guidance through email, so please feel at ease.
STEP 03
CHOOSE OUTFIT
After reviewing the estimate and confirming your photoshoot date, you can choose your outfit.If you are able to try on outfits during your stay in Japan (for example, the day before the shoot), you may decide then.The plan includes complimentary outfits, and upgraded outfits are also available.Upgraded outfits start from ¥28,000 (¥30,800 including tax).Depending on the season, we may offer outfit discount campaigns, which are also available to international customers.
STEP 04
RESERVATION CONFIRMED
Once the details are mostly finalized, we will email you the final quote. You may then proceed with the application.To confirm your booking, a ¥50,000 deposit (included in the total fee) is required in advance. Payment can be made by credit card via the URL provided in our email.If additional charges apply due to outfit selection (e.g., decided the day before the photoshoot), the balance can be paid at the studio on the day of the photoshoot by credit card or cash.Your photoshoot booking will be complete once these steps are finished.
STEP 05
SHOOTING
We will send you a detailed schedule via email before the photoshoot day, so please make sure to arrive with plenty of time on the day of the shoot.
If you wish to have a fitting prior to the photoshoot day, such as the day before, we may be able to accommodate your request. Please feel free to inquire.
STEP 06
DELIVERED
The data you've ordered will be delivered approximately three weeks from the shooting date. We will send it via data transfer service.For albums and mounts,delivery will take around three weeks after photo selection. If you need your order urgently, we also offer expedited options, so please feel free to inquire.
WEDDING AVE. CONCEPT
At Wedding Avenue, we offer a wide range of photo services tailored to various occasions related to pre-wedding and wedding photography.
From studio photoshoots, location photography, chapel photos, studio ceremonies, pet photos,
family portraits, anniversary photos, to Hawaii-themed photoshoots, we provide personalized wedding photography to suit each customer's needs.
Ⅰ. DESIGN
Overwhelmingly stylish.
- Overwhelmingly stylish.
- 1. Available for shooting in allstylish studio backgrounds.
2. Abundant trendy Western and
Japanese-style outfits in fashion.
3. Stylish bride and groom photos.
Ⅱ. RESONABLE
Overwhelmingly affordable.
- Overwhelmingly affordable.
- 1. The final estimate is overwhelmingly low.
2. 50% OFF on the second set of data.
3. Is the number of delivery cuts the highest in the industry？！
Ⅲ. NATURAL
Unmistakably natural
- Unmistakably natural
- 1.Exceptional staff hospitality
2. Heartfelt first meeting (First Look)
3. Proficiency in natural location photography
Ⅳ. OTHER
Other Services
- Other Services
- 1.Free Drink Service
2.Chapel Photo and Wedding Ceremony Service
3.Anniversary Photo Service