As Sakura bloomed earlier this year, by the date of this scheduled shoot, the blooms in Kyoto and Tokyo were gone. So we “chased” after the blooms and went to Matsumoto in Nagano, 3 hours by bus from Tokyo. It was a wise decision by the photographer Nathan. We found a Sakura haven.

We arrived early and went to check out good photo spots. Its really a vast difference from Tokyo, I think population is very low there. Which is a good thing for photo taking, no need to stop traffic 😛

The bride Charmaine likes simplicity and no fuss. Even her gowns reflect that. So makeup and hairstyle is played down as per her request. Simple is beautiful, natural beauty.

Some photos, I dont know who took what, we had a fun time sending each other iphone taken pics:

Taken at hotel before we set off:

Pictures compliments from Charmaine:

Photography by Nathan Wu

Sakura bloomed a week earlier than expected this year in Tokyo, coupled with strong rains and wind, so it was tough for pre-wedding photo shoot couples from overseas who had hoped to take the sight of full bloom. Nevertheless, a good photographer can always transform ordinary scenes into extraordinary ones.

Took Shinkansen and went up to Kyoto for this pre-wedding makeup. Though not my first time there, its a nice change from city Tokyo. Love the architecture and old charm of Kyoto, no matter which season. The streets are fairly less occupied compared to Autumn season.

Very sweet looking bride, Michelle I have this time, I thought she looked like 萧亚轩from the pic that she sent to me. I gave her more romantic styles which I think suited her well.

Nathan the photographer is the more relaxed kind, I feel …. he has this calming effect on people. The photos look ethereal and beautiful.

Pics from my iphone :

Pics that Michelle sent to me:

Congrats to Royce and Michelle, have a blissful wedding

Photography by Nathan Wu

The photographers from Top Photography thought it might be too early for Sakura photo shoot when they scheduled some time ago, but coincidentally, Sakura bloomed early this year and its now in full bloom and starting to fall already due to heavy rains. So its lucky for Nic and Zixuan, catching the right moment.

Different photographers really have different styles, its quite interesting to  observe as a makeup artist. This shoot started with a detailed schedule to follow, and we were really on the dot. Difference is, there are 2 photographers this time instead of one. So I think there is more variety to the shots. I was not required to be lighting assistant but became a leaf thrower and seagull feeder for camera effects instead :p

I also love how we came upon a group of adorable japanese kids playing with fallen leaves at Yoyogi park and got them to spontaneously take a shot. That became my favorite picture.

I have helped almost every couple who came here for pre-wedding to get a hand bouquet of their choice. But this was by far the most challenging. To source for a blue rose which has a special meaning to Nic and Zixuan. Cant believe how difficult it was to find one in Tokyo, this special rose that I found is chemically treated and is meant to last forever, doesnt wilt or change. Expensive rose but meaningful. When I saw them tearing off the leaves from the rose stalk … my heart felt like its being shredded … :p

Some photos to share:

Photographs by Top Photography

I am thankful for the chance to go Kyoto during this period and experience the famous momiji – autumn leaves. Its breathtakingly beautiful. Daytime colors are intense already, but night time …. the special illumination is just indescribable. No wonder its a popular attraction every year.

Pity I cant take pictures of night scenes and capture the essence.

It was a bit of a rush as all of us arrived late. The bride Yian Chyi panicked that evening as she realized an obvious part of her gown was torn. I whipped out my sewing kit and saved the day. Now I appreciate the home economics class from my school days haha.

Some pics taken by my  iphone to share:

Some breathtaking landscapes: