I did a photoshoot with Marvin on my 2nd last day of the trip. It was a fun experience. He is friendly which made me feel confortable during the session. He knows the spots and where to get the good photo so I didn't need to worry about it. And the photo process is very fast. If you want some photos for you trip, go with Marvin!
Marvin ✓
Fluent
Native
Biography
Hi, I’m Marvin, your local photographer in Tokyo.
Originally from the Philippines, I’ve been living in Japan since 2014 and currently split my time between working as a full-time English teacher in Tokyo and photographing travelers as a freelance photographer. Over the past four years, I’ve focused mainly on landscape and travel photography, while also capturing special moments such as birthdays, pre-nuptial sessions, events, and anniversary trips.
I’m known for being friendly, patient, and easy to work with. Many guests tell me that even if they usually feel awkward in front of the camera, they quickly feel comfortable during our session. I give clear guidance on how to pose and move, so everything feels natural and effortless, whether it’s your first professional photoshoot or not.
I know Tokyo well and enjoy taking guests to great photo spots they would not normally find on their own, from vibrant night scenes in Shinjuku to quieter locations around the city. I’m also flexible and happy to adapt to your schedule, even for late-night shoots or last-day sessions before you leave Japan.
My goal is to make your photoshoot feel relaxed and enjoyable, like walking around the city with a local friend, while creating beautiful images that help you remember your time in Japan. I look forward to meeting you and making your trip truly memorable.
My Portfolio
My Photoshoot Offers
Cameras
- Nikon Z8
- Nikon Z50
Lenses
- Nikkor 35mm Z f1.8
- Nikkor 50mm Z f1.8
- Nikkor 85mm Z f1.8
- Viltrox AF 16mm f1.8
- Viltrox AF 75mm f1.2
- Tamron 70-200mm F/2.8 G2
- Nikon 40mm f/2.8 Macro Lens
Client Reviews
What clients are saying about Marvin.
Had a great shoot with Marvin. He took me to some awesome locations I would’ve never found on my own. He paid attention to detail and was very open to ideas I had as well as giving me info on Japan. 10/10 great experience
I've never done a pro photoshoot but thanks to Marvin who made our photo session for my birthday fun and easy and taught me how to pose for amazing shots. Shinjuku is already very lit and colorful at night and he did a great job using these lights and colors in his photos effectively. Thank you!
Marvin was great, although I got lost in the station he was able to find me. He gives great direction and made the experience feel comfortable and effortless. 10 out of 10 recommend.
Can’t believe how lucky I was to have found Marvin. Was in my final day in Tokyo and wanted to get some final shots before I left. Marvin was beyond accommodating being flexible to meet me late at night for a night shoot and at a location that was further out for him. He was able to show and shoot at spots around Tokyo tower that were beyond the usual popular spots that were even better. On top of his phenomenal photography skills, he’s a very nice and cool guy to talk to while you walk around on your shoot. Highly recommend Marvin to anyone and everyone visiting Tokyo and wanting some amazing and memorable photos!
I had an incredible experience with Marvin! Despite me running 15 minutes late, he was so accommodating and didn’t let it impact our session at all. He was incredibly professional, putting me right at ease, and even took the time to show me how to pose for the best results. His expertise really showed – he knew all the perfect spots to capture stunning shots, and his direction made me feel comfortable and confident. The photos turned out absolutely amazing, far exceeding my expectations. I can’t recommend Marvin highly enough for anyone looking for a talented and thoughtful photographer!
The price was well worth the experience and the photos were super nice. We got the photos also in less than the committed time, just in time for our wedding anniversary. Marvin was very open and shared his experiences living in Japan for so many years which made the photoshoot feels more like just a reunion with a friend. My husband and I are awkward in photos, but Marvin was directing us how to pose so it didn't look so. Overall great service and highly recommended.
Working with Marvin was an awesome experience. He shared insight about the culture and location spots. Although my visit to Japan was short, I would have wanted to hop around Tokyo with Marvin just to have more shots. I would definitely want to book him again if I can return to Japan with my family.
Marvin was very accommodating when I had to postpone the photo shoot to take advantage of the cherry blossom season. He was very friendly, kind and professional. I received the photos much sooner than expected and the result was beautiful and stunning, thank you for everything Marvin!
This was such a great experience! Marvin knows all the spots for a photo shoot and is patient to make everyone happy. We had a large group and he was flexible coordinating with us and our schedule. Highly recommend booking a photo shoot with Marvin, it’s one of the highlights of the trip.
Marvin is a lovely and friendly guy. He helped us took some nice photos around the places and the experience was so amazing. I would recommend Marvin to other travellers that wish to hire a personal photographer during their trip.
Marvin was amazing! He was extremely professional and knew all the right locations to shoot some great photos. He made us feel comfortable and relatable. He did a wonderful job. I’d recommended to anyone.
