Tom Latta

Tom Latta, a North Carolina boy, has been shooting both professionally and as a passionate hobby since the early 70’s. He majored in art (graphics/photography/video) at WCU and UNC (72-75), and joined the Navy in 1975 "to see the world." His first duty station was in Monterey CA, where he attended the Defense Language Institute and graduated as a Spanish Linguist for the Navy. While In Monterey CA, 75-76, he ‘apprenticed’ for and studied under Army Combat Photographers and local Cannery Row artists and photographers in his off time. He started shooting and selling professionally there on Cannery Row in late 1975. 

He deployed to the Miami area 76-77 and then came back to DLI in Monterey to study Russian. He graduated in April 80, and headed off to Japan, still shooting pictures building up his repertoire and stock as he moved around the world. Using his ‘good ole boy’ southern upbringing, and friendly attitude, he has been able to shoot a wide range of subjects, projects, and activities over the years. 

He has taught photography, dark room and video, and craft courses for the Military Bases and local Community Centers wherever he was stationed.  Tom has received awards and commendations for his photography from around the world to include: 1st Place All Japan Nikon Candid Photography and All Japan Nude Photography Contests, 1st, 2nd and 3rd Place Awards for the DOD WorldWide Photography Contest, and a Commendation Award from Great Britain for his Castle Studies. 

Tom is retired a Navy Cryptologist and Linguist and retired Navy Civilian Senior Analyst and Program Manager in Cyber Security and Critical Infrastructure Security. He is constantly shooting pictures during his off time while at home and on the road. He also is a Google Maps Ambassador shooting and posting pictures of various artists and their galleries around the world while traveling. He currently has 2.5Mil views on his Google Maps sites. If you see the Big Red Pickup Truck (now Big Black Pickup Truck) on the beach, along a mountain road, in the Midwest plains, or out in the high desert, you know you will find Tom close by, shooting nature or some sports activity. Get down, and come on over, he will be glad to chat with you, and take your picture.

Latta’s Lakeside Galleries
Thomas Latta Photography and Limited Edition Collections
www.cattspics.com