Yutaka Kawachi, also known as "TAKA," began as a photographer in Japan at the age 23. Carrying a backpack and only $300, he made his way to New York City to develop his creativity and training in the world of photography.

Once settled, TAKA was able to focus his talent by working with a number of top photographers including Jerry Friedman and Les Goldberg, before venturing out on his own to open TAKA STUDIO.

As time passed and his experience deepened, TAKA acquired the unique ability to transform the simple into the spectacular. His talent, open spirit and welcoming personality has attracted many challenging and noteworthy projects. He always focuses on what a project requires to get the job done right, and can easily adapt when client desires or direction shifts.

As a top commercial/still-life photographer, TAKA works tirelessly to create singular optical narrative images that engage and communicate with the viewer. He's crafted advertising campaigns for renowned companies and brands such as American Express, Avon, Baccarat, Canon, Cartier, Estee Lauder, John Hardy, Macy’s, Movado, Origin, and Sony. His editorial work includes notable publications like Business Week Magazine, Fortune Magazine, and Time Magazine, just to name a few.

But TAKA isn’t limited to just photography — he translated the magic he makes with still images into motion, working as a Director of Photography/Director at Registered Films Production Company, creating memorable video content for clientele from Baccarat to Trident.

Taka creates his visual miracles in a studio 20 miles north of NYC on the western shores of the Hudson, in beautiful Nyack, NY. When he's not there, he’s relaxing in Westchester/Pound Ridge, where he resides with his wife and four children, along with their dog and cat.