Michael K. Yamaoka, 85, most recently of Peachtree City, Georgia, and formerly of South Salem, New York, passed away on June 10, 2026. He leaves behind a life marked by artistic achievement, international friendship, and deep devotion to family. Born in Japan, he attended Waseda University before continuing his studies at Art Center College of Design in California, where he became the first Japanese graduate in advertising and photography. 

He built a distinguished career in New York, first as a staff photographer at BBD&O and later as the founder of Yamaoka Studio in Manhattan. Over the course of his career, he worked with leading clients in advertising, publishing, design, and international business. His photography and creative work reflected both precision and imagination, and he earned wide respect for his entrepreneurial spirit and artistic eye. 

Michael’s life extended far beyond commercial success. He was deeply committed to building bridges between Japan and the United States through culture, design, and business. His career brought him into collaboration with artists, publishers, executives, and friends across many countries, and he remained grateful for the many encounters that shaped his life. 

Above all, Michael was a cherished husband to Audrey and a loving father to his three children, Natasha, Tiffany, and Kenneth. The tragic loss of his son Kenneth became a profound turning point in his life. In the years that followed, Michael turned more fully to his exhibitions in New York, Tokyo, Kyoto, the UK, and Germany, and publishing his book Odyssey as a memorial to his son and a reflection of his own journey. 

He is remembered for his creativity, perseverance, generosity, and the warmth he brought to family and friends. His legacy endures through his photographs, his published work, and the many lives he touched. 

Michael is survived by his devoted wife, Audrey; his daughter, Natasha Yamaoka and Tiffany Yamaoka; his sons-in-law, Russel Ettinger and Eddie Zimmerman; his grandsons, Dean Ettinger, Ryker Zimmerman, and Kent Zimmerman; his sister, Keri Fujimoto; his brother, Kageaki Yamaoka; and a wide circle of family, friends, and colleagues in the United States, Japan, Germany, and beyond. 

He is preceded in death by his son, Kenneth Yamaoka, and his sister, Mami Yamaoka.

Memorial services will be held in July at Lakeview Cemetery in New Canaan, Connecticut, with the date and time to be announced.