I have not worked as a professional photographer and am largely self-taught. A committed student, I am enthusiastic about my subject matter and photographic technique. I take digital images, read, or watch something about photography just about every day of the year. Traveling with me and my camera can be a test of love and patience.
I consider my work in the realm of Fine Art photography. My personal focus is on finding an emotional connection with nature – The emphasis is on wading birds, landscapes and seascapes. You can find a number of my photos published in Florida’s Manatee County calendars and on-line by the Parks and Natural Resources Division. Most of my current work concentrates in the preserves of Florida, the nearby Gulf beaches and the Cortez fishing village. I have also taught basic photography principles at our local community beach-club.
My photo experience dates back to film days in the mid-1960’s with a Minolta SRT-101 SLR. Working with water buffalo and friendly farmers in the rice paddies of Thailand and Taiwan where I was stationed with the U.S. Army, I experimented with composition and the exposure triangle. This interest continued over 48 years traveling the world on six continents with the Central Intelligence Agency, The National Reconnaissance Office and personal travel. Since my second and final retirement in 2012 I have spent most of my free time honing these skills. My cameras and I have visited more than 150 cities in 63 countries, and I have lived for extended periods in Germany, Thailand, China, India, as well as the Philippine and Greek islands.
I hope you enjoy viewing some of my work!
Jim@Takajy.com (571) 305-3429
