Taku • Architectural and Real Estate Photography + Video

12/15/2024

Beaches Tanning Salon & Spa has been a part of Bremerton since 1991, becoming a familiar presence in the community. Its new owner, Mark, wanted to update his business’s marketing photos to refresh the website and social media presence. He asked us to showcase not just the interior of the business but also its offerings through professional photography. During my time there, I got a sense of how much this locally owned salon means to its patrons – it’s clear why it receives consistently high ratings.

The salon offers a range of services designed to promote wellness and self-care. Over the years, they’ve added innovative options like hybrid sunbeds that combine tanning with red light therapy and an infrared cocoon wellness pod for relaxation. They also have a spray tan booth that provides a customizable airbrush experience, perfect for achieving a natural glow.

While I was there for the photo shoot, it was easy to see the care and thought that goes into creating a welcoming atmosphere. From luxury sunbeds equipped with features like cooling mist and aromatherapy to the friendly, knowledgeable staff, the salon focuses on making each client’s visit a positive experience. Customers mention how clean and inviting the space is and how much they appreciate the attention to detail and customer service. It’s a place where people feel genuinely valued. If you’d like to check it out, it’s located at 4217 Wheaton Way, Bremerton, Washington.

12/01/2024

Rippe Associates, based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, designs commercial kitchens for clients in hospitality, healthcare and education. They worked on the food hall, called The Kitchen, at Quil Ceda Creek Casino, part of the Tulalip Tribes of Washington resort complex in Tulalip, Washington.

After the project was completed, they needed front and back-of-house photos and reached out to me for this photography project. I met the Rippe project manager, who was overseeing the renovations, at the casino at 6 am, so we could start the shoot before the dining area became busy with guests.

The photos were used for marketing, and were featured in several publications, including the Foodservice Equipment & Supplies Magazine and Casino Style Magazine.

11/18/2024

From a photo shoot for Absher Construction and Wesley Bradley Park, a retirement community in Puyallup, Washington. This project stood out because it’s designed to support seniors at every stage of retirement, offering independent living, assisted living, and memory care. The 19-acre site houses 153 residential apartments, 49 assisted living units and 18 units for people with memory impairment. It feels more like a high-end resort than a retirement community. With multiple dining halls – even a small, cozy tea room, a movie theater, a hair saloon and many other amenities, one can keep herself engaged.

I focused on capturing the thoughtful design of the space. From light-filled common areas to landscaped outdoor spaces, the goal was to highlight how the facility balances functionality and comfort for its residents. Spaces like the dining areas, patios, and residential units offered plenty of opportunities to show how the design supports a welcoming and connected environment. Wesley Bradley Park is a great example of a project where the architecture and layout reflect the needs of the people who use it. It’s rewarding to photograph spaces that serve a purpose beyond their design.

09/15/2024

A recent editorial assignment was photographing the beautiful stained glass and sacred spaces at Temple Beth El in Tacoma, WA. From the vibrant windows to the Holocaust Memorial art piece in the sanctuary, every detail tells a powerful story. Capturing these moments was not just about the art but about the deep meaning behind it.

03/27/2023

In planning to sell your abode so dear,
Its photos must to potential buyers appear
Attractive, captivating, and fair,
Showcasing strengths and beauties rare.

A skilled real estate photographer should be hired
To make your home’s features inspired,
But first, prepare it with utmost care,
And follow these tips to ensure its flair:

Declutter and depersonalize your space,
Remove items that obscure its grace,
Make it clean and polished, a sight to behold,
Fresh and inviting, with charm to unfold.

Brighten and lighten, let the natural light shine,
Adding touches of warmth with colors divine,
Be sure the exterior and curb appeal
Are tidy and welcoming, with a charming feel.

If you’re in Washington State, look no further
Taku’s pro photographer, with quick turnaround, can confer
Stunning photos, drone shots, and Matterport tours,
Competitive prices, and services that endures.

12/09/2020

Custom crafted home out of reclaimed Douglas fir. Photographed for New Energy Works in Allyn, Washington.

11/25/2020

Newly built Dr. Claudia Thomas Middle School in Lakewood, Washington. Photographed for Korsmo Construction and Studio Meng Strazzara.

11/19/2020

07/12/2020

See us in action. Video interview and showcase by Alex Nakamoto (Alex Nakamoto Real Estate Group), a real estate broker with John L. Scott. Enjoy!

I interviewed Mihael my real estate photographer and asked about his process. One of my biggest pet peeves is seeing new listings with photos take...

01/21/2020

Tacoma, WA