This week, photographer Scott Takeda kicks off 2020 with an appearance on the new Netflix series “Messiah.” He costars as Mr. Mishida, a Japanese landscape photographer taking wildlife photos at the National Mall in Washington, D.C. When Takeda is not behind the camera as an art photographer, he makes a living as a working TV/Film actor.

“This was a fun way to combine my life on both sides of the camera,” said Takeda. “The producers were looking for an actor who had extensive photography experience, and I certainly fit the bill. I think the only adjustment was they wanted me to shoot with Canon, and I’ve been a lifelong Nikon guy. Also, it was pre-EOS Canon, so I had to familiarize myself with FD lenses.”

Takeda’s episode is the sixth in the ten episode first season. The show focuses on the world’s reaction to a man who first appears in the Middle East claiming to be the Messiah. His sudden appearance and apparent miracles spark an international following. Takeda’s character captures the definitive photo of him walking on the surface of the reflecting pool in the National Mall.

The series premiered on January 1st, 2020. It stars an international cast led by Michelle Monaghan, Mehdi Dehbi, John Ortiz, Tomer Sisley and Jane Adams.