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Chizu Takakura, Austin lifestyle photographer, smiling and holding her camera in natural light.

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Hi there! My name is Chizu Takakura. Please just call me Chizu!(Don't worry about the pronunciation—it often trips people up! I'm happy to explain it when we meet!)

I am a photographer based in beautiful Austin, Texas, driven by a deep love for exploring new experiences through travel. When I’m not behind the lens, you can find me indulging my passions for pottery, appreciating the quiet beauty of flowers, and recharging my energy through hiking and immersing myself in nature. Art is the wellspring of my life, and I am dedicated to creating authentic photographs that tell meaningful, heartfelt stories.

 

About Me

My Journey to Austin

 

I was born and raised in the Japanese countryside, which shaped my incredibly easy-going and relaxed nature. My fascination with photography began around the age of 13, inspired by my father, leading me to pick up my first SLR camera.

After studying photography at college, I moved to Tokyo and gained invaluable experience working at a major photo studio. There, I had the incredible opportunity to assist various top-tier photographers. This experience gave me a profound knowledge of lighting techniques across many genres, from still life to portraiture. I was especially fortunate to serve as the exclusive assistant to the renowned fashion photographer, Yoshinori Onda, which further sharpened my technical skills and artistic vision. I worked as a full-time photographer in Tokyo for over a decade, taking on a wide range of projects including portraits, interviews, still life, and documentary work.

My camera eventually led me to travel through Asia, Europe, and South America, visiting friends and exploring new cultures. It was during these travels that I met my partner, and we now happily call Austin our home. I absolutely adore the warm community and the wonderfully laid-back pace of life here!

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Chizu Takakura and her husband photographed together in Austin, Texas — natural light portrait showing warmth and connection.

My Vision

 

I’ve started my journey as a lifestyle photographer in Austin, and I find immense joy in capturing the unique, unrepeatable moments in your lives. Drawing on all my past experience, my mission is to deliver the highest quality images possible. I truly believe there is an irreplaceable beauty within every single person, and I love digging in to unearth those moments.

It would be an honor to photograph the important milestones in your life. I look forward to meeting you!

Explore my favorite Austin photo locations perfect for family, maternity, and couples sessions.

→ Photo Locations

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