Welcome to My Photography Portfolio
Though I am not a professional photographer by trade, I am a passionate, self-taught artist deeply committed to my craft. Photography is both my discipline and my joy—I immerse myself in it daily, whether through capturing digital images, studying techniques, or exploring the work of others. Traveling with me and my camera is often a test of love and patience, as pursuing the perfect shot can take precedence over everything else.
My work falls within the realm of Fine Art photography, with a personal focus on creating emotional connections with nature. I am particularly drawn to wading birds, serene landscapes, and captivating seascapes. Many of my photographs have been featured in Florida’s Manatee County calendars and shared online by the Parks and Natural Resources Division. My creative lens is often pointed at Florida’s pristine preserves, the nearby Gulf beaches, and the historic Cortez fishing village. I’ve also enjoyed sharing my knowledge by teaching basic photography principles at a local community beach club.
My love for photography began in the mid-1960s with a Minolta SRT-101 SLR. I captured the beauty of Thailand and Taiwan while serving in the U.S. Army. There, amid water buffalo and rice paddies, I explored the art of composition and mastered the exposure triangle. Over the next 48 years, I carried this passion with me across six continents, traveling to over 150 cities through roles with the Central Intelligence Agency, the National Reconnaissance Office, and personal adventures.
Since retiring in 2012, I have devoted much of my time to refining my skills. My cameras and I have journeyed through Germany, Thailand, China, India, and the islands of the Philippines and Greece, where I’ve had the privilege of living and exploring for extended periods.
I invite you to explore my collection of images and hope they inspire a connection as deep as the one I feel when creating them.
Feel free to reach out:
Email: Jim@Takajy.com
Phone: (571) 305-3429
Email: Jim@Takajy.com
Phone: (571) 305-3429
