What a year! Many of us are sitting down to soba and tempura to welcoming the new year. Take a look a some of our memorable event, branding, headshot, and portrait sessions during our difficult yet hopeful 2020 year.
TOPTIA’s Memorable 2020 Moments
Kicked off the new year In Nagano with Mirai no Mori for their annual Winter CampI finally found this Instagram gem and got to photograph their colorful spaceA closer look at the colorful doorsMy goal for 2020 was to really put myself out there in the photography and creatives space. Right after I captured the colorful doors in Odaiba, I ventured to Shibuya and met this intriguing up and coming model and her mother at a models x photographers’ meet and greet party.Later the next month, the Asian University for Women asked if I could photograph a screening of the Oscar-winning documentary, Period. End of Sentence, directed by Rayka Zehtabchi who was there to discuss it with the audience in Azabujuban.The up and coming model from the photographer x model’s meet and greet wasn’t the only model I met. We spend the early evening shooting in Roppongi Hills in February.Something that really made me feel proud of what my profession offers were being a part of an international team of women photographers photographing executive women at each branch of Western Digital in preparation for their International Women’s Day feature. Here is Emi Hatano, one of the female executives featured for WD Japan.Before my trip to the US, I was able to do a fun and a bit artistic session for two corporate gentlemen. I couldn’t believe how amazing their stories were and couldn’t wait to catch up with both of them to hear more. Finally in the US for the first time in 4 years, I got to visit Las Vegas for the annual WPPI convention and photographed this nice woman among the many passersby and models at the hotel. I still can not believe Payton is shy about posing! We had a simple session with some fun music in the background ready to enjoy the shoot.I don’t think I’ve ever met a MEXT scholar before. But low and behold, Patrick from the Congo was my first! He’s also phenomenal in PR as well as acting. I had this idea that would not leave my head and he graciously (among the COVID precautions) came to the studio to bring my idea to life!I captured this headshot of him as a thank you for coming!And one for a long-time friend who was helping out as well.Angela was so phenomenal when she came for her headshot session with her daughter. It was bittersweet knowing it would be the last session done at the Ginza Hub Co-working space For it would be closed due to the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Rose of condolences and remembrance for my mother who passed away too soon. My mother gave me so much and I thank her for the person I have become this year. One thing I felt in my heart I must capture was the 3600 people who marched in Shibuya in protest of the George Floyd killings in Minnesota. It amazed me how many non-black marchers there were. I had been to the previous Black Lives Matter march 4 years ago and it paled in comparison to the support that braved the weather, COVID and anti-protesters in June. Though few, there were some black marchers among the thousands of BLM supporters.Later in the month, I felt honored to photograph the president of FEW, For Empowering Women. I’ve always been in awe of the women who keep this organization thriving and communal for global-minded women living in Japan. It was also great to see a familiar face for the first time since the lockdown had lifted.Covering an event for another familiar face, pre-lockdown, I met a guest and his mother who was very shy. I thought he would make a great model and asked to take his picture. Needless to say, mom approved!For the first time since the lockdown ended, I got to reconnect with my friend and assistant, Nathalie. We were doing a branding session for a friend of mine with two businesses, Tracey. This session was such a fun and hilarious shoot! I can’t wait to see how both her businesses are doing.Founder of Black Lives Matter Tokyo, Sierra Todd. She and an art student and I teamed up for a fashion project Jamie Smith is also an activist and model just like Sierra Todd. She helped me with a final project I was working on for the New York Institute. One of the things that affected many this year with the pandemic was couples who were planning on marrying this year. This international couple wanted to invite their friends from Japan to their wedding in New Zealand. Sadly with the international travel ban, they could only have a small reception celebration with their Japanese family and friends. Yet to be deterred by the pandemic, this dynamic consulting duo wanted to brand their business and website with new profile and headshot images in Roppongi. This young kid had a big goal. To grow his hair as long as he could so he could donate it on his birthday a week later. His motivation came from his favorite professional wrestler who had battled an illness months before.Remi has been a friend that always messages me to check-in and see how I’m doing but to also invite me to his performances. Oftentimes, I can’t make them but this time, I was able to come and see him perform in Azabujuban. I have a secret, Shichi-go-san during the autumn season is my favorite time of the year. Kids in kimono do some of the darndest things that are so fun to watch and see. Rain and a curious son won’t stop our Shichi-go-san session here. Fun-loving yet perceptive children. These headshot sessions are very significant to me because they were done in the new studio spaces TopTia now uses after Ginza Hub went away. The worry and stress I felt about moving to a new studio plagued me constantly. But seeing how both the clients and I connected with each other during our sessions in the new Shinjuku and Aoyama studios, I think it’s safe to say TopTia has found a new home. It was so relaxing spending the day in Hayama for a relaxing pre-wedding session. Getting a chance to look at the ocean for hours before -and after- the session really helped me get over a lot of the stressors that 2020 brought. It was so fun reconnecting with an old friend and his fiance, I think we all enjoyed putting 2020 out of our minds for a couple of hours on the beach.Closing out the year on a higher note than when we entered it. This couple’s wedding day was the day before Japan locked down its borders. They hurried back to Japan from the US just in time however without a wedding ceremony. Still, their happiness with each other was infectious to me and my assistant, Annette.Yet here I am. Like many others, we carry a lot of baggage from 2020 yet hoping to let off a few weights one bag at a time. I’m cautious yet, hopeful. I’ll see you on the other side everyone!
First impressions don’t happen by accident. People form opinions about your credibility, authority, and expertise in seconds. The way you present yourself visually is a direct reflection of how you lead, communicate, and influence.
That’s why professionals who command attention don’t rely on outdated photos or casual snapshots to represent them. Taking control of your online presence with intention ensures that your image aligns with your expertise and ambition.
A professional headshot not only supports your brand but also strengthens the perception of trust and leadership before you even step into the room. If your current photos don’t reflect the impact you create in your industry, it’s time for an update. @nobue_doi
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Just a gentle reminder: Kodomo no Hi is coming up on May 5th! It’s that wonderful Japanese holiday dedicated to celebrating children and their happiness. It also marks the final day of Golden Week!
While we honor the little ones, let’s also take a moment to celebrate the incredible parents, guardians, and caregivers who nurture them every step of the way. Your unwavering love, patience, and commitment are the roots from which these young lives grow and flourish. Thank you for the sleepless nights, the early mornings, the quiet sacrifices, and the boundless support. You carry not only the weight but also the privilege of shaping the next generation. Your strength and devotion don’t go unnoticed.
#photography #art #aestheticphotography #photographer #portraitoftheday #portraitphotography #headshotphotography #creative #expression #toptia #toptiaphotos #toptiaphotography #japan #creativity #photoday #photographertokyo #tokyophotographer #tokyophotography #tokyophotographer #japaneseculture #goldenweek #childrensday #kodomonohi
Hair? Makeup? Styling? We’ve got you!
Have you ever thought about booking a photoshoot, but hesitated because of the time and effort required for hair and makeup? What if those services were provided for you, so all you had to do was show up and shine?
We offer professional hair and makeup styling as part of our photo shoot session, ensuring you look and feel incredible. From styling to shooting and everything in between, we’ve got you covered every step of the way. Working with our team means feeling confident, empowered, and 100% ready for your close-up!
Skip the stress of hair and makeup! Witness the TOPTIA difference on https://zurl.co/NcX6b
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How many times have you seen an image that inspired you? A striking portrait, a bold pose, a look that carried a story. Something that made you think, I wish I could do that! And then, just as quickly, the doubt sets in. But I’m not a model. I wouldn’t look like that. That’s not for me.
But what if it was for you? What if you let yourself explore, play, and step into a version of yourself that you’ve never seen before? Photography isn’t about fitting into a mold, it’s about capturing you. Your energy, your essence, your individuality. So this is your sign. Do something that feels a little silly, a little bold, a little out of character. Because life is too short not to try something new. Step out of your head and into the frame.
https://toptia.com/creative-portrait/
Model: @thehaemy
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That moment when the wind decides to collaborate, not disrupt our photo session!
From a photographer’s perspective, we often chase the perfect light, the ideal composition. But sometimes, it's the unpredictable elements, like the wind, that truly elevate an image. It adds an ethereal quality to the portrait, and character to the still frame.
Beyond photography and aesthetics, the wind can symbolize more. It can represent change or momentum. And when the wind is in your favor, as the saying goes, it's a sign that things are aligning, that you're moving in the right direction. Perhaps we should embrace the unexpected, find beauty or lessons in the chaos, and trust that even when things feel uncertain, the wind might just be pushing us exactly where we need to be.
#photography #art #aestheticphotography #photographer #portraitoftheday #portraitphotography #headshotphotography #creative #expression #toptia #toptiaphotos #toptiaphotography #japan #creativity #photoday #photographertokyo #tokyophotographer #tokyophotography #tokyophotographer
Surrounding yourself with a community of like-minded individuals in the same industry is key to growing and mastering your craft. Finding your tribe is everything.
I had an incredible time at the LA workshop with @aaronjayyoung and @jonnycreative, where I got the chance to meet the amazing model Nichelle. She was such a pleasure to photograph, and her energy was truly inspiring.
This workshop also sparked a new level of creativity in me when it comes to building sets. Just like in film, where set design and wardrobe play a huge role, I’m now thinking on a larger scale about how to create immersive environments for my shoots. Understanding my clients’ vision and what they’ll be wearing helps bring everything into harmony and elevates the entire image. The takeaway? Be inspired by other industries and stay connected with peers. Sharing knowledge, learning from one another, and always staying open to growth will take your work from good to great. Keep pushing, keep evolving, and keep connecting.
#photography #art #aestheticphotography #photographer #portraitoftheday #portraitphotography #headshotphotography #creative #expression #toptia #toptiaphotos #toptiaphotography #japan #creativity #photoday #photographertokyo #tokyophotographer #tokyophotography #tokyophotographer
Meet Fong! He’s one of the wonderful assistants I had the joy of meeting at the LA workshop with Aaron Jay Young and Jonny Edward. @aaronjayyoung @jonnycreative.
This workshop was pure magic! I got to connect with amazing creatives, play around with new ideas, and step outside my usual routine. And let me tell you, giving my very chatty mind a little breathing room was so refreshing.
One of the biggest takeaways? Box breathing. Who knew something as simple as slowing down my breath could quiet the noise in my head and make space for fresh inspiration? While I walked away with new photography techniques, I also picked up some much-needed self-care practices that I’ll be holding onto. All in all, an experience that left me feeling inspired, recharged, and ready to create.
#photography #art #aestheticphotography #photographer #portraitoftheday #portraitphotography #headshotphotography #creative #expression #toptia #toptiaphotos #toptiaphotography #japan #creativity #photoday #photographertokyo #tokyophotographer #tokyophotography #tokyophotographer
Check out Jonny breaking things down during our recent LA workshop, led by the dynamic duo of Aaron Jay Young and Jonny Edward. @aaronjayyoung @jonnycreative. It was an amazing workshop, surrounded by a room full of incredibly talented and fun creatives. That workshop was a breath of fresh air! It really allowed me to let my mind run wild, to explore new ideas and push past my usual creative boundaries.
Lately, I've been deeply focused on refining my artistic vision. I’m striving to create a look that tells a dynamic, yet minimalist story of people navigating their life's journey and building their legacy. It's a challenging but incredibly rewarding pursuit, and I was looking for guidance to really solidify that direction.
Jonny and Aaron were absolutely fantastic, providing invaluable insights and practical advice that helped me clarify and refine that vision. They were instrumental in guiding me towards realizing the specific aesthetic I've been aiming for in my work. The way they broke down concepts and offered personalized feedback was great, and it gave me the confidence to push forward with my creative goals. I can’t wait to bring my vision to life in Tokyo!
#la #tokyo #photography #art #aestheticphotography #photographer #portraitoftheday #portraitphotography #headshotphotography #creative #expression #toptia #toptiaphotos #toptiaphotography #japan #creativity #photoday #photographertokyo #tokyophotographer #tokyophotography #tokyophotographer
This particular shot was captured during our Cape Town trip and marked the beginning of our journey of sunset hunting. Chasing sunsets in Cape Town was a whole new level of experience compared to Tokyo. Being based in Tokyo, witnessing a full and glorious sunset isn't exactly easy. The city's density often blocks the view, and you're lucky to catch a glimpse of the setting sun. Depending on the time of day and the buildings around you, you might see slivers of light, but it's never quite the same. In Cape Town, however, the abundance of hills and valleys makes it remarkably easy to find vantage points where you can see truly breathtaking sunsets in their entirety.
I'm not entirely sure if being in the Southern Hemisphere contributes to a different feel, but I can say with certainty that I absolutely loved the entire experience... especially while enjoying a lovely glass of Viognier.
It was lovely seeing @bellakotak and my great friend Angie Whitten @myharmonyphotography.
#tokyo #capetown #photography #art #aestheticphotography #photographer #portraitoftheday #portraitphotography #headshotphotography #creative #expression #toptia #toptiaphotos #toptiaphotography #japan #creativity #photoday #photographertokyo #tokyophotographer #tokyophotography #tokyophotographer
This shot of a new friend Greg @kret.jp, was taken at Jinguji Temple in Japan as part of the Obama photoshoot. Again this place is one of the 400 temples in Obama. It's one of those places that just takes your breath away. Massive thanks to Sean Brecht, who was the key to making this whole trip happen. Honestly, without him, this wouldn't have been possible.
What struck me about Jinguji was how open it was. We got to explore practically everywhere. Usually, you're limited to certain areas, but here it was like the whole temple was our studio. It was amazing to just wander and see what caught my eye. Being able to shoot so freely really gives me room to stretch my creative muscles. I wasn't worried about restrictions; I could just focus on capturing the feeling of the place. It was a real 'think outside the box' moment, and I loved the challenge.
Here’s to freedom and creativity!
#photography #art #aestheticphotography #photographer #portraitoftheday #portraitphotography #headshotphotography #creative #expression #toptia #toptiaphotos #toptiaphotography #japan #creativity #photoday #photographertokyo #tokyophotographer #tokyophotography #tokyophotographer
This shot features the incredibly talented Michael @michaelcannonphotography, an LA-based photographer known for his compelling portraits of men, during a recent workshop in LA . It was great to have him around and to be surrounded by a group of other talented and fun creatives. A special shout-out to Aaron Jay Young @aaronjayyoung and Jonny Edward @jonnycreative for leading such a productive and engaging workshop.
The workshop was a fantastic opportunity to explore new creative approaches. It was more about creating a space where we could experiment and let our ideas flow. It felt so amazing to let my mind run wild! It's always a valuable experience to be surrounded by people who are passionate about their craft. I left feeling motivated and energized.
Thanks to everyone who participated and made it such a worthwhile experience.
#photography #art #aestheticphotography #photographer #portraitoftheday #portraitphotography #headshotphotography #creative #expression #toptia #toptiaphotos #toptiaphotography #japan #creativity #photoday #photographertokyo #tokyophotographer #tokyophotography #tokyophotographer
“Wherever you go becomes a part of you somehow," right? Anita Desai nailed it. Seriously, stepping away from the familiar rhythm of daily life and exploring new spots is like hitting a reset button. New environments have a way of weaving themselves into your being, enriching your soul. It's not just about the cool sights; it's about the people you meet, the little things that stick with you, and the chance to broaden your horizons.
This particular moment was captured at Jinguji Temple in Obama City, one of the eight temples there. I loved this temple because it was a photographer’s dream! We had so much access to the temple and were able to photograph all areas of the location. It was such an amazing exercise to unleash my creativity and really think outside the box. Huge thanks to Sean Brecht @walkingsean for making this trip happen!
And speaking of people, I met Kevin (@cyclegraphy_japan) there, who's not only a super talented photographer but also a great person. That's one of the best parts of traveling, isn't it? Those new connections that stick with you! It's the moments, places, and people that make a trip special.
So, where are you guys planning to explore this year? Any cool spots on your radar?
#japan #travel #japantravel #fukui #fukuiprefecture #japaneseculture #japanesehistory #obamacity #photography #art #aestheticphotography #photographer #portraitoftheday #portraitphotography #headshotphotography #creative #expression #toptia #toptiaphotos #toptiaphotography #japan #creativity #photoday #photographertokyo #tokyophotographer #tokyophotography #tokyophotographer
Taking a nice break from portraiture, I found myself in the quiet beauty of Myotsuji Temple, and it was such a refreshing change. Among the old stones and tall trees, I came across some very peaceful residents, a group of koi, swimming in their pond with a noticeable sense of calm. I'm pretty sure they've figured out the secret to being mindful.
Myotsuji Temple, tucked away in the green mountains of Obama City, Fukui prefecture, is one of eight temples there. It's a hidden treasure in a peaceful forest. The beauty of this place is truly deep; every view is worth a photo. The surrounding nature, with its tall trees and soft sunlight, adds to the temple's natural charm, creating a place where you can feel both spiritual and appreciate the pretty views.
If you're interested in history, visiting Myotsuji Temple is a must-do. It's more than just a pretty location; it's a real part of Japan's history. Walking around, you can almost feel the old stories, a connection to the people and traditions of the past. It’s a chance to learn, think, and appreciate the lasting beauty of Japanese culture, all while enjoying the calm of nature.
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