Hello, my name is Randy A. Dykstra and I first started taking photographs over 40 years ago in high school.  I learned everything from taking photos to working in a darkroom.  I love the outdoors and nature and was an avid backpacker, which gave me plenty of opportunities for landscape photography.   In the early 1990s I became a professional SCUBA diving instructor (PADI), which opened complete new worlds of photography for me.  My love of nature, wildlife and photography has always been a huge passion of mine.

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I graduated from the University of California with an Electrical Engineering degree and spent a long time designing and integrating space and military aircraft and surveillance equipment.  I've taken photography classes from various sources including a variety of private instructors and including classes at Brooks Institute in Santa Barbara, CA.  I'm also always searching, experimenting and learning new things. 

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My lifelong hobby is now my vocation.  Instead of the darkroom of my youth, I spend my days working with Lightroom and Photoshop.  I use my engineering discipline and knowledge to continually learn and adjust to the intricacies of photography, and ever expand and concentrate more on the artistic aspects. 

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Today I’m fortunate enough to be able to follow my passions, and along the way I get to share some of my knowledge and experiences with you and others.  Now you too, can join me on my travels and experiences and enjoy the wonderful places we explore.  I provide instruction, tips, guidance for all levels of photographers.    My ongoing and future projects include working on educational and photo books, speaking engagements, and continuing providing photography lessons and workshops.   I hope you enjoy my work, and feel free to contact me.