Something of value we bring to our clients is helping them conquer their fears and uncertainties so they feel empowered to step outside of their comfort zones.During our sessions, we might smile, laugh, or even dance, but what we’ll definitely do is equip you with the tools to move past fear and uncertainty with each pose and emotion we explore.Worried about how you’ll look when you smile? My #1 goal is to get you out of your head and into the moment—so you CAN smile with CONFIDENCE.There’s no room for Negative Nancy here! This is your time to shine, step out of your comfort zone, and celebrate YOU.#aestheticphotography #photography #portraitphotography #portraitoftheday #art #creative #expression #toptia #japan #tokyo #personabranding #personalbrandingphotography #personalbrandingphotographer
1 week ago
It’s officially fall, and with it comes cooler weather and stunning scenery for photos! Here’s how to capture your time in Japan with a portrait photographer this fall.If you’re planning to wear a kimono, consider choosing a fall-themed one with warm colors that complement your surroundings. The same advice applies to regular outfits.Dark jeans paired with white or cream tops are always a great choice.When it comes to locations, parks like Yoyogi Park, Shinjuku Gyoen, and Tachikawa Shonen Memorial Park are fantastic spots to showcase Tokyo in the fall. For those interested in the yellow ginkgo leaves along Jingumae Avenue, early December is the best time, but it can get crowded by mid-day. I recommend scheduling your shoot between 6:30 AM and 9:00 AM for a more peaceful experience.Are you up for an early morning shoot? I always recommend stopping by the popular World Breakfast Bazaar afterward—it’s a great incentive for an early start, and a fun way to motivate the kids!#aestheticphotography #photography #portraitphotography #portraitoftheday #art #creative #expression #toptia #japan #tokyo #fall #japantrip #japantravel #autumn #fallphotography #fallfashion #fallphotoshoot #kimono #fallkimono #fallootd #ootdfashion #tokyophotographer #tokyophotography
2 weeks ago
Breaking into Japan's modeling industry requires preparation and persistence. From choosing the right niche and creating a strong portfolio to signing with reputable agencies and networking, following these steps will help you stand out in this competitive market.Here are some things you should consider:1. Do Your Research
Understand Japan’s modeling market and choose your niche, whether it’s fashion, commercial, or fitness modeling.2. Take Professional Photos
Build a portfolio with essential images like headshots, full-body, and swimsuit photos to present to agencies.3. Sign with a Reputable Agency
Work with agencies that have a strong reputation and don't charge fees for employment.4. Networking and Casting Calls
Attend industry events and casting calls to boost your chances of getting booked.5. Persistence
Stay patient, persistent, and keep improving your portfolio and connections in the industry.#toptia #toptiaphotography #tokyo #model #modeling #fashion #networking #japanmodel #modeljapan #castingcall #networking #photoshoot #aestheticphotography #photography #portraitphotography #portraitoftheday #art #creative #expression
2 weeks ago
A strong personal brand helps you stand out, attract the right people, and build meaningful connections. It’s not just about your title—it’s about how you’re perceived and the story you tell.
Photography plays a key role in this. Professional branding photos allow you to control your narrative, showcasing your personality and values. On social media, your website, and other platforms, these images tell your brand story the way you want it told, making you memorable and relatable to your audience. Just like iconic figures, personal branding allows you to establish trust and credibility. People are naturally drawn to those they know and trust.
We create images that authentically reflect your unique essence and align with your goals. Personal branding photography goes beyond looking good—it’s a powerful investment in your future, helping you create meaningful connections and stand out.
#aestheticphotography #photography #portraitphotography #portraitoftheday #art #creative #expression #toptia #japan #tokyo #personabranding #personalbrandingphotography #personalbrandingphotographer
2 weeks ago
I’ve noticed something that stands out in both Brooklyn and my hometown, Charlotte: murals. They’re everywhere! But here in Tokyo, I feel like I don’t see them as much.Am I wrong? Sure, there are a few scattered around, like the ones near Miyashita Park in Shibuya or by the Yoyogi Park Stage, but beyond that, nothing really comes to mind.I think murals have a way of bringing a city to life, turning blank walls into vibrant canvases that reflect the soul of a community. They tell stories, celebrate culture, and spark inspiration. For creatives and free spirits, they create a sense of connection and pride, becoming visual landmarks that make a city feel alive.So, are there any murals in Tokyo that have caught your eye? I’d love to hear your favorites.And if you ever spot a mural please feel free to share the photos with me or tag this account in your stories. I would love to share the creativity with our community.#aestheticphotography #photography #portraitphotography #portraitoftheday #art #creative #expression #toptia #japan #tokyo #brooklyn #newyork #charlotte #mural #murals #muralart #muralartist #muralpainting #muraljapan #miyashitapark #yoyogi #shibuya #yoyogipark
3 weeks ago
That fleeting moment when a young boy, dressed in his finest traditional attire for Shichi-Go-San, paused mid-run across the shrine courtyard to glance back at his family—it’s one I’ll never forget.This image was taken several years ago. That young child will be finishing elementary school soon. I often wonder how his family remembers this day, this moment.Do they remember what he laughed about or the funny antics he did before the ceremony began? Do they recall the exact moment when we all called his name, and he stopped on that rock, standing in the sunlight, and looked back?Because I do.Shichi-Go-San is less than two months away, and we can’t wait to capture lasting memories like these for your little one.#aestheticphotography #photography #portraitphotography #portraitoftheday #art #creative #expression #toptia #japan #tokyo #family #familyphotography #shichigosan #japanphotography #japaneseculture
3 weeks ago
Personal branding photography is a powerful way to showcase who you truly are. While headshots are a key element, personal branding portraits go beyond—offering a comprehensive collection of images that highlight your style, personality, and story. From dynamic action shots and full-length portraits, each image is crafted to reflect the essence of you.In the studio or on location, these sessions are designed to capture a diverse range of poses, outfits, and emotions, helping you to express yourself authentically.Here’s a photo I took in Brooklyn, capturing the unique style and personality of an amazing woman I had the pleasure of meeting a few months ago.#photography #art #aestheticphotography #photographer #portaitoftheday #creative #expression #toptia #toptiaphotos #toptiaphotography #japan #america #photography #photographers #womesupportingwomen #womeninbusiness #personalbranding #businesswomen #creativewomen
3 weeks ago
Working with such incredible clients has been more than just a creative experience; it's been a journey of growth and learning. Each session has left me with invaluable insights, reminding me of the power of connection, confidence, and collaboration. Here are some of the key lessons I've learned from my clients:1. The Power of Freedom
Seeing my clients embrace a sense of freedom in front of the camera has been truly inspiring. It's a reminder that when we allow ourselves to be vulnerable, our true selves can shine.2. The Strength of Collaboration
Every photoshoot is a partnership. The best results come when the model and photography team collaborate closely, creating a shared vision that elevates the entire experience.3. Confidence is a Superpower
Confidence isn't just a trait—it's the key to unlocking our full potential. My clients have shown me that when we believe in ourselves, we can conquer any challenge and radiate an unstoppable energy.Working with entrepreneurs breaking barriers and leaders inspiring change has been incredibly inspiring. The strong, determined women I've had the privilege to work with continue to teach and motivate me every day. Thank you for being part of this journey and sharing these valuable lessons with me!#photography #art #aestheticphotography #photographer #portaitoftheday #creative #expression #toptia #toptiaphotos #toptiaphotography #japan #america #photography #photographers #womensupportingwomen #womeninbusiness
4 weeks ago
One of my favorite things about Shichi-Go-San is witnessing the joy and excitement of children from diverse cultural backgrounds celebrate this day.For those who may not know, Shichi-Go-San is a traditional Japanese celebration that takes place each year. The name translates to "Seven-Five-Three," referring to the ages of the children being celebrated: three-year-old boys and girls, five-year-old boys, and seven-year-old girls.This ceremony marks a significant milestone in a child's life, celebrating their growth and wishing for their continued health and happiness. On this day, children typically dress in traditional Japanese clothing, such as kimonos, and visit a shrine with their families to offer prayers and receive blessings.It's truly fascinating to see Japanese families pass down their kimonos to the next generation for this special occasion at their local shrine.But what’s equally special is seeing international families embrace the ceremony with their own children, bringing a sense of adventure and newness to this beautiful tradition. Each family, regardless of their background, celebrates this milestone in their own unique way, and the images we capture are precious memories for everyone involved.We love celebrating these moments through our photo sessions. For international families, we can assist with kimono rentals and communicate with local shops to ensure your 7-5-3 session is seamless and unforgettable for you and your children.#aestheticphotography #photography #portraitphotography #portraitoftheday #art #creative #expression #toptia #japan #tokyo #family #familyphotography #shichigosan #japanphotography #japaneseculture
4 weeks ago
The fall foliage forecast is out, which means the holiday season is just around the corner! With the cooler weather on the way, it’s the perfect time to plan an outdoor photo session. The autumn colors are gorgeous, and they make the best backdrop for photos that you'll want to share with everyone. Plus, it's a great time to start thinking about your holiday and nengajo cards. If you get your photos taken in late October or November, you’ll have them ready in plenty of time to order and send them out before the holiday rush hits.Capturing those little moments of joy and connection within families is truly something special. For couples, it’s a wonderful way to celebrate and showcase your love. If you’re looking to update your family photos, mark a special occasion like 7-5-3, omiyamairi or simply want some beautiful shots of you and your partner, let’s make it happen.I’m now taking bookings for outdoor sessions, but spots are filling up fast! If you’re interested, shoot us an email at info@toptia.com.#aestheticphotography #photography #portraitphotography #portraitoftheday #art #creative #expression #toptia #japan #tokyo #family #familyphotography #couples #couplephotography #japanfall #japanphotography #japaneseculture #japanholiday
1 month ago
You know, when I first got serious about photography, I naturally gravitated toward photo walks in Japan. It was such a blast joining these groups, surrounded by photographers at all different skill levels. Seeing how each person approached photography was eye-opening, and it really showed me how much this art form can bring to your life.I hadn't done a photo walk in years, but recently I joined one in Brooklyn during Elena S Blair’s retreat. It was my first time doing a photo walk in the US, and wow, the vibe was so different! I loved every minute of it, and the connections I made with the other photographers were priceless.It felt like everything came full circle—starting with photo walks in Japan and then having this experience back in my home country. Now I’m itching to do more photo walks around the world. If you’ve ever been curious about photography, why not grab a friend, get out there with your camera, and just have fun? You never know where it might take you!#photography #art #aestheticphotography #photographer #portaitoftheday #creative #expression #toptia #toptiaphotos #toptiaphotography #japan #america #photography #photographers
1 month ago
Can you believe we're already nine months into 2024? Time has flown by—one moment I was capturing the beauty of cherry blossom portraits, the next I was in Charlotte, and now, autumn is just around the corner.Autumn is one of our most booked seasons for family portraits. The cooler weather and vibrant leaves create the ideal setting to capture your family's love and connection.You can choose our studio or an outdoor location for your session. Could the pure happiness on this boy’s face be from the love of his family, the crisp autumn air, or perhaps something more? Book your 7-5-3 session and we can help you with kimono rentals!#japan #tokyo #autumn #japanautumn #photography #art#aestheticphotography #japanphotography #photographer #family #familyphotography #familyphotographer #familyphotos #familyphotos #familyphotoshoot #familytime #familyfirst #portraitoftheday #creative #expression #toptia #toptiaphotos #toptiaphotography
1 month ago
There’s always something to smile about, even when life feels heavy. As you go through your day, your week, and the months ahead, focus on those moments that made you laugh, brought you joy, and lifted your spirits.It could be the sound of your children’s laughter, dancing, or the peace found in a simple stretch. It’s in these moments that you find the fuel to press forward. So, keep moving, keep laughing, and embrace everything that makes life truly worthwhile.#photography #art #aestheticphotography #photographer #portraitoftheday #creative #expression #mindfulness #selfcare #selflove #beyourself #toptia #toptiaphotos #toptiaphotography
1 month ago
Life is full of unexpected moments, and sometimes meeting someone can lead to an unforgettable experience. While strolling through the bustling streets of New York City, I had an encounter that left a lasting impression.As I stepped out of a photo shop, I noticed an elegantly dressed older gentleman with a 4 x 5 instant Polaroid press camera in hand. His name is Louis Mendes, a renowned photographer who has made a name for himself by capturing spontaneous portraits of people he meets in Times Square and New Orleans. @reallouismendes has an extraordinary portfolio, having photographed legends like Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Cab Calloway, Lena Horne, Gordon Parks, Denzel Washington, Spike Lee, Swizz Beatz, Alicia Keys, and Colin Kaepernick. His life story is a testament to the power of following one's passion.I couldn't resist the idea of taking a portrait of him. We struck up a conversation, and I asked if he would wait while I found a flat-brimmed hat to complete the look I envisioned. Thankfully, he agreed.I made my way to Union Square and then Soho, searching the shops for the perfect hat. It took nearly an hour, but I finally found it. I returned to 34th and 6th, and there Louis was, true to his word. We spent the next hour talking about his journey from being an in-house photographer at a department store to becoming a celebrated artist capturing iconic moments with famous figures.Louis Mendes is more than a photographer; he's a storyteller. His work transcends simple portraits, capturing the essence of people and preserving fleeting moments as timeless art. Our conversation reminded me that photography is not just about capturing images but about connecting with people and sharing their stories.This meeting with Louis Mendes is a memory I'll cherish forever. I’m grateful for the amazing people I’ve met through photography and look forward to meeting more.#photography #art #aestheticphotography #photographer #portraitoftheday #creative #expression #toptia #toptiaphotos #toptiaphotography #japan #america
1 month ago