FAQ

FAQ

Questions? Don't hesitate to ask!

GENERAL FAQ:

Q: What is Tokyography?

A: Tokyography is a photography school, catering to all who love or are curious about photography and keen to incorporate Tokyo as their backdrop.

Q: I am a complete beginner, can I take classes?

A: Absolutely! We have classes ranging from introductory all the way to professional.

Q: What is included in the price?

A: The price covers the time and expertise of the photographer. Transportation and optional equipment rental costs are not included.

Q: What kind of camera do I need?

A: Any digital camera – either single-lens reflex (SLR) or mirrorless will be fine! We recommend using any camera that has manual functions so as to allow you to craft images freely. If you do not have one yet you can always rent one from us (¥1000 per class – subject to availability).

Q: Can I shoot with a smartphone?

A: Yes. However it is not recommended as some techniques require manual and advanced camera functions, which most smartphones are not equipped with. We recommend opting to rent one of our cameras instead  (¥1000 per class). Please ask us about our camera availabilities at the time of your booking.

Q: Can I rent a camera?

A: Yes! Our rental fee is ¥1000 per camera. Please make sure to book one early so that we can confirm availability.

Q: Can I shoot with a film camera?

A: Absolutely! However this means we will not be able to give you full feedback on your photos during the class (that being said, we would be more than happy to review your photos once they have been processed and scanned).

Q: Is there an age limit?

A: No, but we recommend ages 13 and above. All minors must be accompanied by an adult throughout the entire duration of the class.

Q: Can non-photographer guests join my class / workshop / excursion?

A: Yes. However guests must pay the full price. Our goal is to keep groups small and focused.

CLASSES:

Q: What are the Tokyography classes?

A: The Tokyography classes are a beginner-to-professional full photography course, teaching you how to use of your camera, lenses and accessories — all in the context and setting of Tokyo. Classes are divided in thirds: technical theory, artistic theory and practice.

Q: In which languages do you offer classes?

A: By default our classes are taught in English, but some classes may be taught in French, Portuguese or Japanese.

Q: I have some knowledge of photography, but I do not know which course I should be starting at… What should I do?

A: No worries at all – please get in touch! One of our instructors will assess your level and recommend your starting course.

Q: I am a total beginner, which class should I start with?

A: If you have no prior knowledge of photography – then starting from the introduction module is the best way to go.

Q: I would like to take private lessons with my friends, but we are at different levels. What should we do?

A: This depends on your difference of knowledge & skills. Please get in touch and one of our instructors will assess your levels and recommend the best way to move forward.

EXCURSIONS:

Q: What are the Tokyography excursions?

A: These excursions are aimed at showing you different areas and flavors of Tokyo, while teaching you standard photography skills that will allow you to take impressive shots of the city.

Q: Will the excursions still happen if it it rains?

A: Yes. There are always great photos to be taken in all types of weather! We will contact you if we feel the weather will be too harsh to make the excursion enjoyable.

Q: What should I wear?

A: Comfortable shoes. If it rains then rainproof attire is also recommended.

Q: In which languages do you offer excursions?

A: By default our excursions are taught in English, but some excursions may be taught in French, Portuguese or Japanese.

Q: Do I need a tripod?

A: It will depend on the excursion. We will let you know upon booking if a tripod is necessary.

Q: Can I rent a tripod?

A: Yes, our tripod rental fee is ¥500 per class. Please book early to confirm availability.

Q: Do you offer hotel pick-up?

A: We do not offer hotel pick-up at this stage.

Q: Are the instructors licensed tour guides?

A: No, we are primarily professional photographers working in Tokyo. The excursions focus on the art of photography, not the historical aspects of the city.

Q: What if I am late?

A: Please get in touch with your instructor as soon as possible. If we do not hear from you, your instructor will wait for 15 minutes after the agreed upon start time. The excursion will be regarded as finished past 15 minutes and no refund will be given.

Q: I want to take an excursion in a specific spot of Tokyo not yet listed on your website. Could you do a custom one?

A: We aim to please! Please get in touch with us to work out what’s possible.

Q: Do you offer custom excursions outside of Tokyo?

A: It’s possible but you would have to cover the transportation costs of your instructor. Please contact us to work out details.

WORKSHOPS:

Q: What are the Tokyography workshops?

A: The Tokyography workshops to teach classes on a specific skill or a specialized subject. Please continue to visit our site to check out new postings regarding upcoming workshops.

Q: In which languages are the workshops?

A: By default our workshops are in English. However depending on the instructor workshops may also be taught in French, Portuguese and Japanese.

Q: Can I book and save my space in advance?

A: Yes, and we recommend you do so (especially for workshops with less than 10 spaces). Please get in touch to save your space!

Q: Do I need special gear?

A: Each workshop is different. We will let you know should any special gear be necessary for a specific workshop.

BOOKINGS & CANCELLATION POLICY:

Q: How do I make bookings?

A: Please contact us here to make a booking. We will get back to you as soon as possible!

Q: Can I reschedule a booking?

A: You may reschedule up to 48hours before the start of your booking at no cost. Within 48hours of the booking deadline, you may reschedule at a 50% extra cost from the original booking fee.

Q: Can I cancel my booking?

A: Up to 48hours before the start of the scheduled booking, you may cancel and receive a full refund. Within 48hours of the start of the scheduled booking you may cancel and receive a 50% refund. No refund will be given past the start of the scheduled booking time. 

Q: When and how can I pay?

A: We require payment to confirm your booking. Transaction are safely handled via PayPal and Square. Those living in Japan may also pay directly via bank transfer. For workshops, we may occasionally offer on the day payment – however this does not guarantee your space.

Q: Can Tokyography cancel a booking?

A: We do classes rain or shine, but in rare occasions (such as extreme weather situations – i.e. typhoon), we may have to cancel a booking. In the case of any cancellation, we will do our best to rebook you at your convenience, or offer you a full refund.

Still have questions? No problem.