Irvin Yamada is Maui's first photographer to attain the Master of Photography Degree. The Master of Photography Degree is one of the highest degrees awarded by the Professional Photographers of America (PPA), the largest professional photography association in the world. The degree is awarded to only a select group of photographers in the nation. Photographers qualify for this honor by acquiring achievement merits and producing high quality photographic images to be included in the PPA National Exhibit.

Born and raised in Paia, Maui, Irvin has owned and operated Photography By Irvin in Central Maui for over 20 years.

Known for his award winning wedding photography and portraits, Irvin was instrumental in organizing the Maui Professional Photographers (MPP) becoming its first President (1988 - 1990). He is still active in the association and presently serves as Chairman of the Board. Irvin has also been active with the Professional Photographers of Hawaii (PPH) serving on its Board of Directors for over ten years (1985 - 1995).

From 1990 till 1993, he served as a PPA Councilor, representing the State of Hawaii at the National Convention.

Irvin is also a member of the prestigious American Society of Photographers (ASP). Membership is by invitation only after attaining a photographic degree. He is the only Maui photographer accepted for membership.

In 1994, Irvin had one of his images selected for exhibit at Walt Disney World's Epcot Center Innoventions Display. That year, his photograph was the only photograph from Hawaii to be featured. His photographs have been on display at the PPA National Convention in New Orleans, Las Vegas, Orlando, Chicago and numerous other cities.