A pre-wedding photoshoot is popular with couples preparing for their wedding. Unlike the wedding day itself, you can take your time and shoot in the outfits and locations you love, which is why so many couples include one as a way to create precious memories.
However, when considering a pre-wedding photoshoot, one of the biggest concerns is the cost.
“How much does a pre-wedding photoshoot in Tokyo cost?”
“Are there plans for under 100,000 yen?”
“Is there a price difference between kimono and Western attire?”
“Will extra fees push us over budget?”
Many couples have questions like these.
Demand for pre-wedding photoshoots in Tokyo is among the highest in Japan, and prices vary widely depending on the shooting style, outfits and location. In general, location shoots tend to cost more than studio shoots, with location shoots typically running around 100,000 to 300,000 yen.
In this article, we explain typical pre-wedding photoshoot prices in Tokyo, what the price includes, price ranges for Japanese and Western attire, extra fees and ways to save.
If you are planning a pre-wedding photoshoot in Tokyo, use this guide to plan your budget.
How Much Does a Pre-Wedding Photoshoot in Tokyo Cost?
The cost of a pre-wedding photoshoot in Tokyo varies greatly depending on the plan you choose.
Typical price ranges are as follows.
| Shooting style | Typical price |
| Studio shoot | Approx. 50,000 to 150,000 yen |
| Location shoot | Approx. 100,000 to 300,000 yen |
| Japanese + Western attire plan | Approx. 200,000 to 400,000 yen |
| Plan with album or video | Approx. 300,000 yen and up |
Studio shoots involve no travel and take place in a fully equipped environment, so they are relatively affordable. Location shoots outdoors, such as at Tokyo Station, a Japanese garden or the waterfront, tend to cost more because of travel, shooting permits and longer staff time.
However, rather than judging on price alone, it is important to compare what is included: whether outfits are included, how many digital photos you receive and whether hair and makeup are covered.
What Is Included in the Price?
The price of a pre-wedding photoshoot is not just the photography fee.
In most cases, the cost is made up of the following items.
Photography fee
The photography fee is the base cost.
It may include:
- The photographer’s fee
- Shooting time
- Travel to the location
- Photo data
However, some budget plans charge separately for photo data, so be sure to check before signing up.
Outfit rental
Outfits make up one of the largest parts of the cost.
For Western attire, you might choose:
- A wedding dress
- A color dress
- A tuxedo
For Japanese attire, typical choices are:
- Shiromuku
- Iro-uchikake
- Montsuki hakama
Outfits may be included in the base plan, but choosing designer outfits or kimono made from premium materials may incur extra fees.
Hair, makeup and dressing
A pre-wedding photoshoot requires not only outfits but also hair, makeup and dressing.
For Japanese attire in particular, you may need:
- Kimono dressing
- Wigs and hair ornaments
- Kimono-specific hairstyling
so preparation costs can be higher than for Western attire.
Photo data and albums
Recently, more couples prefer digital photo data over albums.
With photo data, you can use your photos for:
- Welcome boards
- Wedding videos
- Social media posts
- New Year’s cards
However, the number of photos included in the base price differs from studio to studio.
Even if a plan says “all data included,” it is important to check whether that means every photo taken or only a selected set.
Kimono Pre-Wedding Photoshoot Prices in Tokyo
Kimono photoshoots are chosen by many couples because they can be done at popular locations like Japanese gardens and shrines.
A kimono pre-wedding photoshoot in Tokyo typically costs around
100,000 to 300,000 yen.
Kimono studio shoot
For a studio shoot in a shiromuku or iro-uchikake, many plans cost around
50,000 to 150,000 yen.
The advantages are that you are not affected by the weather and there is no travel, making it easier to keep costs down.
Kimono location shoot
For a shoot at a shrine or garden, budget around
150,000 to 300,000 yen.
The higher cost is due to factors such as:
- Location fees
- Travel costs
- Kimono dressing staff
- Longer shooting time
Popular spots such as the Tokyo Station area and famous gardens may also incur extra fees.
Western Attire Pre-Wedding Photoshoot Prices in Tokyo
Western-style photoshoots in a wedding dress and tuxedo are also very popular.
A Western-style pre-wedding photoshoot in Tokyo typically costs around
100,000 to 250,000 yen.
Popular locations include:
- Tokyo Station
- Marunouchi
- Odaiba
- Yoyogi Park
- Western-style mansions
Western attire studio shoot
Studio plans are available for around
50,000 to 150,000 yen.
Because you do not need to worry about the weather, it is recommended for couples who want to capture their photos efficiently in a short time.
Western attire location shoot
For an outdoor shoot, expect around
100,000 to 300,000 yen.
Shoots that make the most of scenery, such as at Tokyo Station or the waterfront, may include travel time and permit fees.
Cost of Shooting in Both Japanese and Western Attire
More and more couples want photos in both a shiromuku and a wedding dress.
Two-outfit plans with both Japanese and Western attire typically cost around
200,000 to 400,000 yen.
The price is higher because:
- Two types of outfits are needed
- Time is needed to change
- Hair and makeup need to be changed
- The shooting time is longer
However, since you can capture photos with two different moods in one session, it is also a highly satisfying plan.
Common Extra Fees for a Tokyo Photoshoot
When reviewing a quote, pay attention to extra fees beyond the base price.
Outfit upgrades
Base plans may include only simple outfits.
Choosing popular designer outfits or luxury kimono may add
tens of thousands of yen.
Weekend and holiday fees
Weekends and holidays are in high demand, so extra fees may apply.
If you want to keep costs down, consider shooting on a weekday.
Location fees
Popular spots may require shooting permits or facility fees.
Be sure to check in advance, especially for:
- Japanese gardens
- Historic buildings
- Famous tourist spots
Additional photo purchases
Some base plans include only a few dozen photos, with the full set of data charged separately.
Adding photos later can significantly change your budget, so check this at the start.
How to Save on a Pre-Wedding Photoshoot in Tokyo
With a little planning, you can keep your photoshoot costs down.
Shoot on a weekday
Many studios offer special weekday-only plans.
Weekdays are also easier to book than weekends and may help you avoid extra fees.
Choose just one outfit
Choosing both Japanese and Western attire increases the cost.
To keep within budget, you can choose:
- Japanese attire only
- Western attire only
Choose a data-focused plan
Album production is one of the more expensive items.
Recently, more couples receive only the photo data and create their own albums.
Choose lesser-known spots
Famous locations may incur extra fees.
Choosing hidden-gem parks and gardens lets you capture beautiful photos while keeping costs down.
How to Choose a Pricing Plan Without Regrets
If you choose a plan based on price alone, you may face extra fees later.
Here is what to check.
Number of photos
Check how many photos will be delivered.
Outfit fees
Check whether outfit rental is included or costs extra.
Shooting time
Short plans may not allow you to get all the shots you want.
Location fees
Check whether your chosen location incurs extra fees.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pre-Wedding Photoshoot Costs in Tokyo
How much does a pre-wedding photoshoot in Tokyo cost on average?
Most cost around 100,000 to 300,000 yen. Plans with both Japanese and Western attire or an album may cost 200,000 yen or more.
Is it possible to do a pre-wedding photoshoot in Tokyo for under 100,000 yen?
Yes. With a studio shoot or a simple plan, it may be possible for under 100,000 yen.
Which is more expensive, Japanese or Western attire?
Japanese attire can be more expensive because dressing and preparation take more time.
Are there any costs besides the photoshoot fee?
Outfit upgrades, albums, additional photo data and location fees may be added.
When should we book a pre-wedding photoshoot in Tokyo?
For popular seasons such as cherry blossom and autumn leaves season, we recommend booking 3 to 6 months in advance.
Summary | Balance Budget and Content for Your Tokyo Photoshoot
The cost of a pre-wedding photoshoot in Tokyo varies greatly depending on the shooting style, outfits and location.
A simple studio shoot can start from tens of thousands of yen, but for a location shoot at a popular spot or a plan with both Japanese and Western attire, it is safest to budget around 200,000 to 400,000 yen.
What matters is not choosing on price alone, but thinking about:
- What kind of photos you want
- Which outfits you want to wear
- How many photos you need
- The atmosphere of the location
and choosing the plan that suits you.
Because this is a once-in-a-lifetime memory, create the perfect pre-wedding photos that reflect the two of you, set against Tokyo’s beautiful scenery.
