Meaningful Japanese-Australian family photos in Tokyo
Lee Family
Tokyo, Japan
A friendship that came full circle
Nearly a decade ago, I lived in Tokyo for six months which was one of the most formative and unforgettable chapters of my life. Japan is endlessly inspiring, but it’s also wildly expensive. Realistically, that experience would not have been possible without my dear friend James, who generously opened his home to me during that time.
When I lived with him, James was a bachelor navigating life, work, and relationships like so many of us do. So when I returned to Tokyo years later and finally reunited with him, I was deeply moved to meet his beautiful wife Yuki and their two children, Maya and Nate. Seeing him settled, joyful, and grounded in family life felt so incredibly meaningful.
Gifting a session from the heart
We only had one afternoon together, and I knew I wanted to give something back — a small thank-you for a kindness that had shaped my life in such a lasting way. This family session was my gift to them.
After sharing lunch and catching up, we headed to a nearby park in Roppongi Hills for a relaxed, candid shoot. Nothing elaborate. No pressure. Just real life as it is.
Almost immediately, Maya, five years old and full of curiosity, decided we were best friends. She held my hand, showed me everything, and bounced between laughter and exploration with endless energy. Nate, just one year old, was understandably unimpressed by the idea of a photoshoot and made his feelings known. Balancing both energies at once was a challenge but one I genuinely love as this is what family photography really looks like.
Candid moments over perfect poses
Sessions like this are never about perfection. They’re about presence.
It’s about allowing space for children to be themselves, meeting them where they are, and embracing the chaos with patience and humor. It’s about capturing the fleeting in-between moments because those are the images that matter most years from now.
Despite the short time and all the movement, we created images that feel honest and alive. Photos that reflect who they are in this season, not who they’re trying to be for the camera.
Why these sessions matter
What made this session so special wasn’t just the location or the photos themselves, it was the history, trust, and shared experience behind them.
Meeting and keeping in touch with James showed me how unpredictable, generous, and surprising life can be. If I’ve learned anything over the years, it’s that the dreams we hold often find their way back to us in ways we never expect.
This session also reminded me why I do what I do. Photography isn’t just about documenting milestones, it’s about honoring the relationships that shape our lives. Whether I’m photographing longtime friends or new clients, it is always my goal to create images that feel personal, grounded, and emotionally true.
Global stories I’m always honored to document
Seeing James build a life with Yuki felt especially meaningful to witness. As an Australian–Japanese family raising their children in Tokyo, their dynamic felt both deeply rooted and beautifully global. Their family reflects so much of what I love documenting - connection that stretches across countries, languages, and lived experience.
After returning to the USA, I received a video-recorded “thank you” from them upon sending them their photo gallery, accompanied by little Maya stating “I love you and miss you” over and over. I can’t tell you how much I cherish these moments!
I’d love to connect with more multicultural couples and families this year, feel free to reach out and say hi :)