"Photography has power. Power to compel the viewer to think and act. Your photos show the coexistence between human and nature... I felt your strong desire to preserve this beautiful landscape."
- Jury Feedback, International Photography Awards 2022
Photographer
Takeshi Kameyama, a Niigata-based photographer and MFA candidate at Kyoto University of the Arts, has been exploring the power of visual storytelling since 2008. His versatile style spans landscapes, portraits, and street photography. In addition to his artistic practice, he collaborates with global brands, including creating promotional content for Sony’s flagship "G Master" lenses and working on major projects for JR (Japan Railways).
In 2022, Kameyama became the first Japanese photographer to be named "Nature Photographer of the Year" at the International Photography Awards (IPA). This achievement led to an invitation to the Lucie Awards at Carnegie Hall and international exhibitions of his work. In May 2026, he will host the "TIFA & Kogame Photo Joint Exhibition" in Shibuya, Tokyo, in collaboration with the Tokyo International Foto Awards (TIFA), presented by the Farmani Group—a leading global organization that presides over some of the world’s most prestigious photography awards.
As the founder of "Kogame Photo Community" and the newly launched educational platform "Kogame Photo Academy," Kameyama mentors photographers aiming for international success and systematic photographic expression. He also serves as a jury member for the "Great Photography Awards," dedicated to fostering the next generation of visual artists and advancing global photographic culture. His work was also featured in the Cabinet Office of Japan’s "Highlighting Japan" (January 2024) as a representative photographer of Japan's winter landscapes.
Achievements in Major International & Domestic Photo Contests
“Microcosm”
In the falling snow of Niigata City, an everyday scene reveals a microcosm of modern society. Residential homes huddle under the gaze of industrial smokestacks, their plumes merging with the winter clouds.
“Tadami Line in Winter”
This photograph won the 'Nature Photographer of the Year' award in the Nature category of IPA2022, one of the world's largest photo contests. It was also selected as a finalist for the Lucie Awards at Carnegie Hall.
“fairy tale world”
The 'Tadami Line' that runs through Mishima, Fukushima Prefecture, Japan, is a beautiful place surrounded by nature. The train running slowly through the snow looks like something out of a fairy tale.
“Morning in Niigata”
Yahiko Otorii, a 30-meter-high gateway to the city. It has a strong presence as a symbol of the local community. The sight of it floating in the morning mist is mysterious.
“Tadami Line Before Dawn”
The Tadami Line is one of the most unexplored routes in Japan. The first train running before dawn under silently falling snow. The scenery is like something out of a fairy tale.
“Infinity Train”
Tokyo Camera Club 10 selected photographers in 2020.
“The Postman”
The railroad tracks leading into the factory are impressive. This place is an actual landscape. The houses in the foreground show people's lives, and the large smokestacks loom in the background.
“Color Palette”
Featured on Instagram Official account under the theme #WHPcolorpalette.
“Summer Memories”
Adobe Lightroom retouch contest Grand Prix winner.
“Grand Prix”
Emotional photo contest Grand Prix winner.
“Grand Prix”
Four Seasons photo contest Grand Prix winner.
“Nikon Award”
Camera Maker photo contest Nikon Award winner.