Summer Colors in the Heart of Kyoto
Kyoto in the summer is vibrant and full of life. We recently met Charlie and Melina, two friends and solo travelers from Germany, for a quick session in the historic Higashiyama area. Their choice of colors was perfect: Charlie wore a cool, deep blue Yukata, and Melina wore a striking, bright red one.
The Magic of Maruyama Park
We held the session at Maruyama Park, one of the most famous spots in the city. While this park is a legend for its "weeping Sakura" in the spring and its fiery red leaves in the autumn, it is equally beautiful in the summer. The long, weeping willow trees provided a soft, green frame that made Charlie and Melina's outfits truly "pop."
Quick Session, Big Results
Because the girls had a tight schedule to return their rentals, our session was only 25 minutes long. In photography, especially during the hot summer, sometimes speed is your friend. We worked efficiently to capture a variety of poses and backgrounds before they had to hurry back.
Understanding the Outfit: Yukata vs. Kimono
Many travelers ask us about the difference between what the girls are wearing and a traditional Kimono.
• Yukata: This is what Charlie and Melina are wearing. It is made of lightweight cotton, has fewer layers, and is designed for the summer heat and festivals.
• Kimono: These are made of silk, involve many more layers (including a heavier collar), and are typically worn during the colder months or for very formal events.
• In the Kyoto heat, a Yukata is the most comfortable and stylish choice for a photoshoot!
A Memory for the Road
Even for solo travelers, having a professional session with a friend is the best way to take a piece of Japan home with you. We were so happy to capture these bright memories for Charlie and Melina before they continued their journey.
