With a degree form the Rhode Island School of design and after work experience as a graphic designer in New York City, Stephen G. Maka made a major career change thirty years ago and became a full-time nature photographer.
Since then he has been able to travel to many undeveloped locations around the world. These remote, vast and fragile ecosystems have not only inspired his imagery but have had a profound influence on his personal philosophy and outlook on life.
Reviewing his work produced over long periods of time, Steve found reoccurring themes. These themes have led to the development of personal projects that, at times, are philosophically driven while others are based on the interrelationship of images or subject matter. Most of the images are fairly spontaneous, allowing nature to dictate time, light, and subject. More conceptual images may take months or even years to create.
His images reflect a strong sense of his fine art background producing statements with a bold graphic impact evoking an emotional response.
Steve's photography is published internationally and has been used in most print forms including books, magazines, billboards, cards, calendars and posters. In addition to publishing, Steve¹s professional commitment has led to teaching, instructing workshops, leading field trips, guiding, consulting, slide presentation, gallery exhibitions and fine-art prints.
As a charter member of the North American Nature Photographers Association (NANPA) Steve now serves as treasurer.