A close-up portrait of a man with dark brown hair, light skin, a mustache, and a goatee, wearing a dark denim jacket and a dark scarf, looking directly at the camera with a serious expression against a black background.

about

Photo By: Jerry Ghionis

Three people photographing a woman in traditional Japanese kimono in front of a red bush during daytime.

my story

I want every shoot to feel less like a photo session and more like hanging out with a friend who happens to be really good with a camera.

My goal is simple: make you feel completely comfortable, relaxed, and maybe even have a few laughs along the way.

Since many of my clients are visiting Japan for the first time, I love weaving in authentic local experiences — the kind of quiet moments and little discoveries that make your trip (and your photos) truly special.

At the end of the day, I want you to walk away thinking, “That was actually really fun.”

My Work

Born in Japan and raised in Hawaii, I’ve always lived between two worlds.

After more than 25 years splitting time between Honolulu and Tokyo, I finally made the move full-time to Japan in 2025.

I still carry that Aloha spirit with me — laid-back, curious, and always up for an adventure.

My Approach

I specialize in weddings, engagement sessions, family portraits, and intimate celebrations.

Whether it’s a couple saying “I do” in a cherry blossom garden or a family creating memories in Tokyo, I focus on using light, seeking genuine moments, and creating beautiful, timeless images that actually feel like you.

I also run photography workshops in Tokyo, helping others slow down and see the world through their lens.

Awards & Recognition

A crystal award trophy with engraved text for the WPPI Honors of Excellence Print Competition, Pre-Wedding Division, Non-Wedding Day category, first place in 2019.

Over the years I’ve been fortunate to photograph a variety of interesting people, including Japanese celebrities and sports figures — which always makes for some fun and memorable shoots!

I’ve also received some wonderful recognition for my work, including multiple Silver Distinction, Silver, and Gold awards from Wedding & Portrait Photographers International (WPPI) between 2011 and 2024.

I was honored to be the first Japan-born photographer to receive both the WPPI Master Photographer distinction (2018) and the Double Master Photographer distinction (2022), and I’ve been an ICON Awards Finalist in 2023 and 2024. Additionally, my work has earned several awards from the PPA, AsiaWPA, Cosmos, and WPE International Photography & Videography Competitions.

Three men standing on stage holding awards at a ceremony with a backdrop displaying '2020 Honors of Excellence' and the WPPI logo, smiling at the camera.
A photograph of a framed black-and-white picture of a person standing on a staircase holding a purple parasol. The staircase is decorated with hanging paper ornaments, and the background appears dark.

  • Collaborating with filmmakers to create authentic and compelling styles and enhance storytelling on screen.

  • Curating and coordinating fashion looks that align with the publication’s theme.

  • Partnering with advertising teams to create looks that align with the brand's message and appeal to the target audience.