Richard Emmanuel is an accomplished multimedia professional whose artistic talents and business savvy have propelled him to the forefront of the Canadian and international photography scenes. From an early age, Richard was surrounded by photography and art. His father, Milan, an expert photographer first exposed Richard to the world of cameras, images and light. Richard’s future was destined from the moment he picked up his first camera, astonishing everyone with his inherent talent to capture the beauty of life one frame at a time. After completing his Bachelors of Applied Arts from Ryerson University in Toronto, Richard assumed the responsibilities of operating and managing the family’s business, Piper Studios—Canada’s largest full service photography studio. In 1998 he capitalized on the success of Piper Studios and launched Solarfocus Media Group—a commercial multimedia company specializing in visual content for advertising and industrial imaging. Blue-chip clients include AT&T, Bell Canada, McDonalds, Royal Bank, VISA, as well as Canadian Living Magazine, to name a few. Encouraged by the success of his commercial enterprises and the increased demand for his artistic visual works, in 2002 Richard launched Richard Emmanuel—an exclusive personalize photography service. This select service has found its patrons amongst Royals, celebrities, world leaders and public figures. Select clientele include Her Royal Highness Princess Anne, Pope John Paul II, French President Jacques Chirac, Right Honourable Lord Robertson of Port Ellen, NATO Secretary General Jaap de Hoop Scheffer and former US Secretary of State Colin Powell. In 2006, Richard founded The Academy of Photo Arts or APA—a private educational institution dedicated to the development and training of individual photographers. APA workshops are inspired by Richard’s real world journeys and photo safaris. Workshops range from in-studio instruction to learning on-location in some of the world’s most exotic natural environments. Richard is currently expanding his interests to include program development for television and specialty channels. He has been prominently featured on A&E, CityTV and the Global Television Network as a world-renowned photographer and industry expert. Richard Emmanuel presently resides in Toronto. He and his wife Stephanie are happily married and have a new baby girl.