Jan 11, 2023

Take Kayo

by author. Jon Parker

Take Kayo is a talented photographer based out of Vancouver, Canada. He has always had a passion for art and storytelling, but it wasn't until he discovered photography that he found his creative outlet. After studying English literature and music in college, Take decided to make a career change and pursue his dream of becoming a photographer. He threw himself into the craft, studying the technical aspects of camera settings, lighting, and composition. But, he also found a deeper meaning in the art of photography, recognizing that it could be used as a powerful medium for self-expression. "Photography is so much more than just archiving and documenting," says Take. "You can actually express yourself through your photography, and that's what I love about it." Take has since established himself as a skilled and sought-after photographer, known for his unique style and ability to capture emotion in his images.

He has shot a wide range of subjects, from portraits to landscapes, and has worked with a variety of clients, including magazines, businesses, and individuals. "I completely hyper-focused on photography as my chosen medium", he says, "it was the perfect blend of technical know-how and creativity." Take continues to push the boundaries of his art, experimenting with new techniques and approaches. He is always looking for new ways to tell stories and express himself through his photography, making his work both beautiful and meaningful.

Hong Kong Neon

Kayo’s most recent project is called Hong Kong Neon. When the travelling to the Asian megacity of Hong Kong one thing attracted the Canadian, “I love the neon signs.” “I was photographing them in a really cinematic way…………. Like the director, Wong Kar-Wai.” He later found out that the signs were being removed as they were a potential hazard, “I’m documenting the signs, as they’re slowly being removed.”

Take shot the project on film, “I started the project using film, Cinestill 800T and using Leica Cameras……… the Leica M7” There was a type of symmetry that attracted Kayo to shooting the signs on film. “Neon signs, it’s like an inert gas, it’s organic – film is analog, it’s organic. So, it made sense to match documenting these signs using an analog medium.”

Photography style

Take Kayo shoots mainly cities, “I identify myself as mainly a street photographer, when it comes to my art style.” For street photography, some lenses work better. “For me a 28mm is the right balance between subject and environment, it’s the right kind of closeness.”

Kayo is optimistic, “As long as artists use photography as a medium of expression, it doesn’t matter how it evolves.” The future is bright, “I’m gonna keep on shooting - Wherever the technology leads me.”

Don't forget to check out Take‘s Instagram.

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