Where to Have Photos Taken for Children’s Celebratory Occasions

Some Japanese families have photos taken to celebrate significant moments during their children’s growth. These include maternity photos, which are taken during the mother’s pregnancy, as well as newborn photos and birthday photos. Other occasions when photos are taken include the start and graduation of pre-school, kindergarten, elementary school, middle school, and high school. It is also common to have photos taken at Shichi-go-san (seven-five-three ceremony).

Two Main Ways to Have Commemorative Photos Taken

Although there are many ways to have commemorative photos taken, here are two main ways. First is to use a photo studio specialized in taking commemorative photos. Second is to have a photography service come to your chosen location.

○Photo Studio

There are several types of photo studios. The ones that offer children’s commemorative photography also have rental costumes available. Each studio offers a different atmosphere　 for the photos. Some studios have elaborate shooting rooms and offer additional service, such as making key chains with the photos that were taken, and creating a special photo album.
(Reference)
Studio Alice　https://www.studio-alice.co.jp/
Studio Mario　https://www.studio-mario.jp/

○Photography Service at Your Chosen Location

This service offers photo shooting at a location that you chose. In this case, costume preparation/rental is not included. This way, you will get unique photos that are different from anyone else’s.

How Much Does It Cost?

The cost for photos taken at a photo studio may include costumes and hair makeup, and it may be the case that the customers can choose which photos to purchase after the photo shoot. The total cost will depend on the number of the photos ordered. For photography services that are performed at your chosen location, costume and hair makeup are done separately, either on your own or by hired specialists. The cost is predetermined and invoiced together with photographer’s travel expenses. Both services are estimated to cost around 20,000 to 60,000 yen. Make sure to confirm what is included in the cost when making a reservation.　Check for discount coupons or a special discount period.

What are Suitable Outfits for Photoshoots?

Many children wear a kimono or dress for Shichi-go-san (seven-five-three ceremony). For the start of school or graduation, ceremonial outfits or school uniforms are common, as well as wearing randoseru (school backpack) and school hats. Family members including parents, brothers and sisters are often photographed together. Check with the photo studio to see if rental outfits are available for family members who need it.

Which Photo Studio Should You Choose?

There are many different photo studios depending on the region, from major studios specialized in children’s commemorative photos, to personal photo studios. The photoshoot location, atmosphere, service content and price vary between studios. You can research online or ask other parents around for details. Do not hesitate to ask the studio if you have any questions.

Taking photos by yourselves at a commemorative location on your own is another great way, aside from hiring a professional, to capture special moments in your child’s growth so that you can look back on them in the future.