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Masato Onoda
Masato Onoda

Where Are They Now? From Powell to the Pages of Vogue: A Chat with Fashion Photographer Masato Onoda '03

Written by Bossan Abdyyeva

It takes a specific kind of leap of faith to quit your job in Japan, search the internet for an "affordable college" in the U.S., and land yourself in the heart of Wyoming to pursue a dream. But for Northwest College alumnus Masato Onoda ('03), that path didn't just lead to a degree—it paved a road right to the front lines of New York City's fashion world.

Today, Masato is a celebrated commercial fashion and portrait photographer, capturing iconic images of the world’s biggest names. His camera has framed A-listers and industry legends, including:

Masato came to Northwest College from Japan, where he had been working in the music industry. Unsure of what career to pursue next, he searched for an affordable American college and ultimately chose NWC's photography program.

His interest in photography began years earlier when his father gave him a camera at age 21. He loved taking pictures of people while traveling, but the truly special part was the intimacy of sharing the printed photos with friends. Though he contemplated a career in cooking, Masato decided photography was the more interesting path to pursue for the rest of his life.

A Professor’s Trust and a Surprise Party

While Masato may not have known what to expect from Wyoming, he quickly found a welcoming community. When asked about his most impactful experience, Masato fondly recalls his late-night studies and the sense of belonging he found:

"I think when I was in Northwest, I turned 30 years old," Masato shares. "I was studying late night... and it turned out it was a surprise party for me. That was a really fun surprise because a lot of international students got together for my birthday".

He also credits his mentor, then-photography professor Anthony Polvere, for a memorable moment of trust. For a class assignment, Masato wanted to use an old printing process called albumen print, which requires mixing chemicals with egg whites. When he approached chemistry professor Allan Child for the special chemicals, Allan was hesitant—until Anthony Polvere vouched for his student.

This kind of supportive bond is not just a college memory; Masato is still in touch with Anthony and they occasionally meet up for a beer in New York City.

The Big Apple Leap

After graduation, Masato moved to New York City and armed with a connection from his friendship family in Powell, Wyoming, he was introduced to the fast-paced world of fashion photography. His connection led him to Dan Lecca, whom Masato describes as arguably "the biggest and busiest fashion show photographer in the world".

Masato spent the next seven years assisting many photographers, from fashion to architecture, gradually building his own reputation and client base. This patience and cooperative spirit are what Masato says clients appreciate most about his work today: he is described as "very patient," "cooperative," and "very calm" with "no drama" on set.

His goal is simple: to capture a personality by incorporating the subject's environment and personal style. For a photographer whose work is published by major fashion houses and magazines, that grounded, human approach is what truly makes his photography unique.

Masato continues to believe in the power of sharing his story, saying he hopes his experience can be inspiring to current NWC students, even if they don't plan on becoming a fashion photographer in NYC: "I really truly believe that whatever I say, no matter what it was... should be really beneficial to certain students".

We are incredibly proud to celebrate Masato Onoda as Northwest College's first featured alumnus in our "Where are they now?" series! To see more of Masato's impressive portfolio, visit masatoonoda.com

Photography by Masato Onoda

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