Our Commitment to Photography | Tokyo's Specialized Maternity Photo Studio Mozart

About Photographing

Maternity photo studio created by professional photographer and hair & makeup artist Maternity photo studio created by professional photographer and hair & makeup artistThis fall, we celebrate our 14th anniversary as a specialized maternity and maternity nude photography studio in Omotesando and Aoyama, Tokyo. Thanks to word-of-mouth, clients have come from all over Japan and abroad, and we have photographed more than 4,000 pregnant women in total.

Professional Makeup Like Commercial and Magazine Models

Your dedicated makeup artist is present throughout the shoot, providing full support from start to finish

Professional Makeup

Here is a real makeup session

A veteran professional hair and makeup artist, actively working on photo books, gravure, and commercial shoots, will be on site. They will be in charge and present until the end of the shoot.
Unlike salon makeup, they are well-versed in dynamic shoots, allowing them to make precise adjustments to accommodate differences in appearance from various angles.
Maternity photo hair & makeup before & after 1

Makeup Before/After 1

Maternity photo hair & makeup before & after 2

Makeup Before/After 2

At Studio Mozart, our hair and makeup services are dedicated to supporting your precious memorial maternity photo shoot with the following four key points in mind. These are part of Studio Mozart’s core commitments.
  1. Choose your makeup from three different image concepts
  2. Create a relaxing yet energized atmosphere
  3. Be present throughout the shoot, adjusting hairstyle and outfit to each pose and angle
  4. Highlight the “maternity aura” in the presentation

Point01

Choose Your Makeup from Three Image Concepts


Maternity photo hair & makeup from three image concepts
Studio Mozart’s hair and makeup approach is very different from the dramatic transformations you often see on TV or in magazines.
We maximize each individual’s unique personality and charm.
Together, we envision the final maternity photo and discuss both wardrobe and makeup as we proceed.
First, please let us know which of the three image concepts you prefer.
(All makeup starts with a foundational layer of foundation.)

Light make up – This is the lightest level of makeup.
False eyelashes are not applied by default.
Eyeshadow and nose contouring are kept very subtle.
Think of this as a lighter hair and makeup style.

Natural make up – This produces a natural-looking finish.
False eyelashes can be applied upon request.
Eyeshadow and nose contouring are applied more fully than with Light make up.
When the final photos are produced, you will see a natural makeup result.

Elegant make up – This is a fully polished, dramatic look.
It creates a mature, adult makeup style unlike your everyday look.
Recommended for those seeking an elegant and dressy appearance.
False eyelashes are applied fully upon request.

(Even with Light make up or Natural make up, it may look slightly heavier in the mirror.
We consider the lighting effects and work backwards from the final image to create your hair and makeup.)

We tailor your chosen hair and makeup concept and outfit style to lean either casual, dressy, or formal.
The hairstyle is similarly shaped according to your preferences.

You might wonder, “Why do you need hair and makeup if it’s going to be a black-and-white photo?”
It’s precisely because it’s black-and-white that hair and makeup are so important.
Please compare with the final black-and-white images to see how it all comes together.
(In maternity photography, many poses emphasize the belly, so you often look downward; that’s why you’ll see downward-facing photos here.)

Specifically, we carefully consider the contrast around your face’s contours and imagine the nose line extending along the natural center line of the body that only occurs during pregnancy.
In addition, by emphasizing the power of the eyes, you will achieve a striking, dignified maternity photo.

Maternity Photo Samples


Maternity photo sample after makeup 1
Maternity photo sample after makeup 2

Point02

Create Relaxation and the Right Level of Energy

The one-hour makeup session for maternity photos is designed for relaxation

Entering the shoot in a relaxed and energized state brings you closer to the best photos.

The full makeup from base to finish takes just under an hour. It’s not only the physical makeup time but also an hour spent preparing the optimal level of energy and mood for the shoot.

If you just come into the studio and say,
“Okay, let’s start shooting!” you’ll feel tense and stiff.

While relaxing and engaging in conversation with the makeup artist,
the muscles in your face begin to soften, and tension throughout your body eases.

Getting makeup done in front of a mirror with lights on both sides feels so wonderful and really lifts your spirits…”

That’s feedback we often hear,
and there’s a secret hidden in that one hour of makeup application.

Point03

The hair and makeup artist stays during the maternity shoot, adjusting hairstyle and outfit to each pose and angle

Hair and makeup artist present during the shoot

Hair and makeup artist stays with you throughout the shoot!

After hair and makeup are complete and you change into your maternity outfit,
the shoot begins, but the makeup artist will always be present during the shoot.

At Studio Mozart, we consider it essential for the makeup artist to be on set during the shoot.
If you want high-quality work similar to talent or model shoots, it’s a must.

This is one major difference from typical photo studios.

Maternity photos often focus on showing the shape and size of the belly, so we tend to use many side poses.

In a hair salon, the finished look is typically facing forward,
but in our studio, because the makeup artist is on set, they can make on-the-spot, minute adjustments to the hairstyle in response to changes in pose and angle.

Capturing the perfect shutter moment requires seamless coordination between photographer and makeup artist.
If they’re not in sync, the results can feel disjointed, but at Studio Mozart, you don’t have to worry about that.
The photographer Komachi and our makeup artist have worked together for over 20 years,
so they operate with perfect harmony throughout the shoot.
Point04 image

[Before] From the side, the hair is covering much of the face.

Point05 image

[After] The hair and makeup artist adjusts the hairstyle on the spot.

Point04

Create a Presentation That Highlights the “Maternity Aura”

The maternity aura is said to manifest in different colors depending on the stage of pregnancy.

The maternity aura is said to manifest in various colors depending on the stage of pregnancy.

Pregnancy is a mystical and delicate time when you are carrying new life
and taking your first step toward motherhood.

The aura that emerges only during this period is called the “maternity aura.”

The maternity aura is said to manifest in different colors depending on the stage of pregnancy.
It becomes most apparent in facial expressions.
Sometimes it appears as a gentle, joyful expression filled with happiness,
or as a confident, nurturing look.
It’s not just about softness; it’s also the inner strength of a woman shown with poise.

The most important thing that our makeup artist keeps in mind
is to preserve this maternity aura without diminishing it.

Not “showing your belly,” but “celebrating your belly”

Extensive Selection of Original, Maternity-Only
Outfits

Original Maternity Dress

Original maternity dress sample 1
At Studio Mozart, we believe in “celebrating your belly” rather than “just showing your belly,”
so we create and provide original outfits designed to highlight a beautiful silhouette. We also offer a wide variety of accessories for you to enjoy mixing and matching. For maternity photos, we categorize outfit styles into three types to make the shoot’s concept and hair & makeup plan more understandable. You are welcome to bring your own favorite outfits and accessories. ※ If you have a specific outfit preference, please let us know in advance. (We may not be able to provide it on the day due to cleaning or wear and tear.)

Light-Colored and Dark-Colored Outfits

Original outfit sample 2

With a light-colored outfit, not only the exposed skin but the entire figure appears to come forward.

Original outfit sample 3

With a dark-colored outfit, the exposed skin stands out in the foreground.

By shooting maternity and maternity nude photos in monochrome against a black background, we believe we can express the subject (you and your baby) more simply and purely. When choosing an outfit, you select either a light-colored or a dark-colored outfit. Light-colored outfits allow not only the exposed skin but the entire figure to come forward. Dark-colored outfits allow the exposed skin to stand out prominently. Both light-colored and dark-colored options are popular. ※ Light-colored outfits create a soft, gentle feel… Dark-colored outfits create a crisp, sharp feel.

Outfit Styles & Gallery

  • Casual Style – Be Yourself, Just as You Are

    For those who want to capture “your unchanging, authentic self”… Tube tops, skirts, camisoles, and other relaxed fashion items.
  • Dressy Style – Feminine and Elegant

    Recommended for those who want to capture a gentle, feminine look. Silk satin, lace fabrics, accessories for a soft, elegant fashion.
  • Formal Style – Poised and Chic

    Recommended for those who prefer a “cool, sophisticated look.” With polished makeup and refined fashion that suits both soft and dignified expressions.
  • Art Nude – Beauty You Can’t Replicate Any Other Time

    Drape chiffon or organza fabrics, use a breeze (fan), and shoot in a style close to nude or semi-nude. Ideal for those who want to capture their current self in a tactile, visceral way. Many clients who initially book for maternity photos change to semi-nude during the outfit-selection stage. (Maternity photo and maternity nude sessions have the same shooting fee.) Would you like to meet a more artistic and daring “another you”?

For Those Who Prefer Not to Show Their Belly

Desktop sample outfit to conceal the belly Mobile sample outfit to conceal the belly While we recommend showing your belly for maternity photos if possible, we also offer options for those who absolutely do not want to reveal their belly. These outfits are designed to conceal the belly while still creating a beautiful silhouette, or to express it in a sheer style without directly showing the belly.

We Also Offer a Wide Selection of Accessories

Accessory that subtly accentuates the belly Subtle pieces that accentuate the belly are very popular.
Additional accessory sample

Common concerns unique to pregnant women:
Skin blemishes, stretch marks, fine hair, and more

A Dedicated Professional Designer
Carefully Retouches for Flawless Skin

Photo Retouching

Example of retouched maternity photo Because these are monochrome maternity photos, we focus on achieving flawless skin in every detail. Many clients considering maternity photos express concerns about fine belly hair, stretch marks, underarm discoloration, and discoloration around the navel. At Mozart, photographer Mr. Komachi always teams up with a skilled retoucher who perfectly aligns with his shooting vision to perform a light retouch ( flawless skin finish ). We believe it is especially important to achieve beautiful skin in black-and-white maternity photos that will stand the test of time without any color adjustments needed. Just as we prioritize hair and makeup, we also emphasize a light retouch ( flawless skin finish ) for maternity photos. ※ If you prefer your photos without a light retouch, we can complete the final images without it.

Treatment of the Midline and Fine Belly Hair

Before retouch: visible midline and fine hair around the belly

Before Retouch

After retouch: midline and fine hair around the belly removed

After Retouch

Prominent Hand Veins & Skin Texture

Before retouch: prominent hand veins and skin texture

Before Retouch

After retouch: smoothed hand veins and skin texture

After Retouch

Smooth Common Pregnancy-Related Skin Concerns

We smooth skin all over (not limited to the belly area, including neck and shoulders…). During pregnancy, skin issues can appear not only around the belly but elsewhere as well. If you wish, we will smooth all exposed areas of skin—not just the belly—and then perform additional detailed retouching.

Neck Lines (Wrinkles)

Before retouch: visible neck lines and wrinkles

Before Retouch

After retouch: smoothed neck lines and wrinkles

After Retouch Smooth neck lines enhance beauty.

Nasolabial Folds

Before retouch: visible nasolabial folds

Before Retouch

After retouch: softened nasolabial folds

After Retouch When these are smooth, you look five years younger.

Jawline (Wrinkles)

Before retouch: visible jawline wrinkles

Before Retouch

After retouch: smoothed jawline wrinkles

After Retouch

Underarm Discoloration

Before retouch: visible underarm discoloration

Before Retouch

After retouch: reduced underarm discoloration

After Retouch This area is also a common concern during pregnancy.

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The true distinguishing feature is not only the skill, accomplishments, and extensive experience of our active, top-tier photographer and makeup artist, but also the atmosphere we have cultivated over 13 years as a specialized maternity photo studio.

Located in a quiet residential neighborhood in a detached house,
we can also accommodate shoots with friends or pets

Fully Reservation-Only Private Studio

Private Studio

Studio exterior near Jingu Gaien and Akasaka Imperial GroundsThe studio is a detached house located near Jingu Gaien and the Akasaka Imperial Grounds. It operates on a fully reservation-only basis, accommodating one party at a time to ensure complete privacy.

Photo Shoots with Pets Are Also Possible

Pet-friendly studio scene
At Studio Mozart, we consider pets to be part of the family, and we are happy to accommodate photo sessions with them.
(Due to the nature of maternity photography, these sessions are subject to specific time constraints.)
One of the Best Shots of the Heisei Era
I had always wanted to take a family photo with my pet someday.
When I found out I was expecting a baby and thought, “I want maternity photos!” I searched for a studio that would let me include my pet.
Studio Mozart told me they could accommodate pet sessions at the end of the day or on weekdays if the schedule allowed, considering other clients.
I had already chosen Studio Mozart for its reputation for stylish maternity photos, so I was thrilled that they allowed me to bring my pet.
Looking at the finished photos reminded me of the wonderful time we shared during the shoot.
It truly is one of the best shots of the Heisei era.

Those Who Shoot with Friends as Well

Maternity photo session including friends
In addition to couples, sessions with friends, parents, and others are also welcome.
Moments Filled with Countless Miracles Few and Far Between in a Lifetime
Three years ago, when I was pregnant with my first daughter, I discovered Studio Mozart and was finally able to have the maternity photos I had always dreamed of.
I decided then that when I had a second child, I would definitely have Mr. Komachi photograph me again, and that moment has finally come.

Last time, it was an intimate shoot with my first daughter in my belly and my husband, but this time I had a family-of-three session with my second daughter on the way, my soon-to-be three-year-old first daughter, and my husband.
That alone was deeply moving, but on top of that, we discovered the incredible miracle that a friend from my school days had the exact same due date, which surprised everyone.

“Because opportunities like this are rare, let’s take maternity photos together!”
I showed my friend the photos from last time to persuade her, and she convinced her husband, resulting in a double maternity photo session!

Leading up to the shoot, Studio Mozart arranged a schedule that considered not only the shooting time but also makeup and waiting periods based on our health.
My friend, who had concerns about her condition, said she was able to enjoy the shoot.

This miracle of sharing a due date with my friend, the miracle of capturing our pregnant forms together, and the miracle within a miracle that I gave birth to my second daughter on my first daughter’s birthday just weeks after the shoot—these moments truly felt like a series of once-in-a-lifetime miracles.
We often hear that pregnancy and childbirth are a chain of miracles, and receiving these photos from Mr. Komachi made each image feel like a cherished miracle.
Since the day Mr. Komachi first photographed us, our family has grown by two, and our home is now wonderfully bustling.

This Is a Studio That Normally Shoots for Talents and Actresses

Professional photographer and hair & makeup artist at work
The photographer and hair & makeup artist we work with at Studio Mozart are professionals who charge ¥100,000–¥200,000 per day. Mr. Komachi empathizes with our vision, and we arrange maternity photo shoots at his atelier and studio several times a month. Therefore, we primarily schedule maternity photo sessions on weekends while coordinating calendars between Mr. Komachi and Studio Mozart.

Studio Mozart Introduction Video

Here is a promotional video showcasing all the details we’ve described about our shooting process. ~It’s about 7 minutes long, so please watch when you have time… and maybe finish up any restroom breaks beforehand (lol)…