• “What I like about photographs is that they capture a moment that’s gone forever, impossible to reproduce.” – Karl Lagerfeld
  • Girl in Ryoanji Kyoto

Hello, I’m Javier Montano. I’m a photographer based in Kyoto.

I love this city and the beauty it contains.

Let me help you capture your special experiences while you’re in Kyoto or in other areas of Japan.

I can accommodate short, few-hour shoots or provide you with full travel packages

with photographic curation.

Whatever desire you have, no matter how large or small the photoshoot project,

I can help—just get in touch.

Weddings

I can provide custom curation & art direction. Not just photos, I'll capture the memories.

Proposals

Let me help you find the perfect place to profess your love, one that you'll remember forever.

Special memories

Short photo tours or full-package trips—tell me your desire, and I'll make your dream come true.

 

Beautiful, personal photographic dreams of Kyoto for your memories.

Photo sessions are customized for every individual. They can be done however you want them:

The world

Weddings

Proposals

Amazing Humans

Business & Corporate

Rain & Snow

Family!

Couples

Solo Portrait

Let's make something great together

Shichi-Go-San, weddings, proposals, and other traditional Japanese events in the Kansai area. I capture these milestones with portraits at the local Shrines (Jinja) and event coverage at different locations.

Javi was an exceptional photographer for our family shoot in Osaka. He knew the area very well and was able to catch great shots in some hidden areas. We received our pictures quickly and were so impressed by the quality. He caught our 1-year-old daughter smiling in so many shots. Highly recommend to anyone looking for a personable and professional photographer in Japan. He also spoke English fluently.

Laura, New York, United States

Our tour with Javier was honestly one of the best [Photo] tours I have ever taken in all of my travels across the globe.

Ian Pak, Syosset, New York

Excellent experience with Javier, makes you feel in a space of trust conducive to the best photos. Professionalism and kindness in one place. We liked the photos too much and in general, I highly recommend him. Super recommended! (translated from Spanish)

Ana Luna

I met Javier on what I thought was a normal day of sightseeing in Gion. He was extremely professional, personable and knowledgeable - which was affirmed when I found out that my fiancé had been working with Javier to plan a surprise proposal! We couldn't be happier about the quality of photos and our experience working with Javier, particularly on such a happy, personal and memorable occasion.

Jen M

Let's see what beautiful memories we can create.

Feel free to message me no matter how clear or not your idea is—I can help you develop a concept or an itinerary for any scale of shoot, project, or curated trip. If possible, please also provide me with the specific date you have in mind for the photoshoot. Let’s get started. We’ll figure it out.

I'm looking forward to talking with you.