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Capturing the Heart of Your Family’s Everyday Life in Japan

Lifestyle & Documentary Photography by Sayaka Okubo
Cherish the beauty of the “ordinary.” No forced poses. No stress. Just your family’s unique bond, preserved forever.
About Me: From One Parent to Another

My journey with photography truly began while I was raising my two sons in the United States. Surrounded by vast nature, I picked up a DSLR with a simple wish: “I want to capture my children exactly as they are.”

At first, I struggled. I tried to make my high-energy 2 and 3-year-olds pose for the “perfect” shot. I felt frustrated when they wouldn’t sit still. But years later, looking back at the photos where they were running wild and being themselves, I realized those were the images that moved me most. They reminded me of the deep love and beautiful chaos of those early years.

Now a mother of five, I have embraced Lifestyle Photography. Whether it’s a messy living room, a quiet walk in your Japanese neighborhood, or the way your child smiles over a simple meal—these are the real treasures. My goal is to help you hold onto these fleeting moments.

Sayaka Okubo

Born in Okinawa, raised in Kyushu. Trained under professional photographer Ryoma Kitta. Mother of five.

My Photography Style: Lifestyle & Documentary
I don’t just take pictures; I tell the story of your “now.”

Natural Movement: I follow your family’s lead. No rigid posing.

Emotional Connection: I focus on the glances, the touches, and the laughter.

The “Everyday” Beauty: Your home or your favorite local park becomes the perfect backdrop for your family’s history.

General Terms for All Plans

Payment Method

• We kindly request payment in advance via bank transfer.

• Bank details will be provided in your confirmation email after booking.

Delivery

• Professionally retouched photos will be delivered via a download link within 2 weeks of the session.

• Please let me know if you have an urgent deadline. Photo sizes and formats can be adjusted to meet your specific needs.

Available Shooting Days

• Sessions are available on weekdays, Saturdays, and public holidays.

• Please note that I do not offer sessions on Sundays.

Extensions & Cancellations

• Cancellations:

  • Up to 8 days before: Free

  • 7 days to the day before: 50% of the session fee

  • Same day: 100% of the session fee

  • Refunds will be sent to your designated account (minus any bank transfer fees).

• Special Circumstances: Cancellations due to rain or a child’s sudden illness are free of charge. We will prioritize rescheduling your session for a later date.

• Extensions: If you wish to extend the session on the day of the shoot, a fee of ¥5,000 per 30 minutes will apply.

• Weather Policy: In case of poor weather, I will contact you by 5:00 PM the previous day to discuss rescheduling.

Travel & Transportation Fees

• Fees are calculated from Tokiwadaira Station (Shin-Keisei Line).

• If the location is more than a 10-minute walk from the nearest station, please cover the cost of a taxi or bus.

• Any entrance fees for the shooting location (parks, gardens, etc.) are to be covered by the client.

• For locations over 1 hour away (one way) from Tokiwadaira Station, a ¥1,000 travel surcharge will apply.

Shichi-Go-San Special Notes

• When booking your shrine visit (Gokito), please confirm that a professional photographer is allowed on the grounds and whether photography is permitted during the ceremony.

• Please allow for 1 hour of shooting time in addition to the ceremony time. As dressing and preparation can take time, we recommend a flexible schedule for the day.

Booking Process

1. Reservation: Please book via the online form. Please review the disclaimer at that time.

2. Consultation: We will coordinate the plan, date, location, and payment via email. I will also ask you to complete a short questionnaire so I can get to know your family.

3. The Shoot: We will meet and shoot according to our agreed-upon plan.

4. Delivery: Your photos will be delivered by the promised deadline.

Other

I am happy to provide advice on outfits or any other preparations to ensure you feel relaxed on the day of the shoot. Please feel free to reach out with any questions!