RIVERVIEW, FL, December 03, 2025 /24-7PressRelease/ -- John A. Schakel Jr. has been selected for inclusion in Marquis Who's Who. As in all Marquis Who's Who biographical volumes, individuals profiled are selected on the basis of current reference value. Factors such as position, noteworthy accomplishments, visibility, and prominence in a field are all taken into account during the selection process.

Mr. Schakel has established a distinguished career spanning more than five decades, marked by expertise in both photography and acting. Since 1970, he has served as a photographer and owner of Photos by Shack, where he continues to launch new ventures, including developing a website to showcase 60-80 photographs available for purchase. His entrepreneurial spirit is further reflected in his efforts to offer a variety of merchandise, including coffee cups and tote bags featuring his artwork. Mr. Schakel remains actively engaged in photography, consistently capturing unique moments and drawing inspiration from nature.

In addition to his photographic pursuits, Mr. Schakel has been involved in acting since 2005. He began this chapter of his career after responding to an open casting call, which led him to formal acting classes and subsequent roles in commercials, films and television projects. His dedication to the craft culminated in receiving the Best Supporting Actor award in 2023 for his performance in the film "Confessions of a Sailor," a milestone he regards as a highlight of his professional journey.

Before his work in the arts, Mr. Schakel was employed as a city letter carrier with the United States Postal Service from 1988 to 2004. During this period, he demonstrated reliability and commitment while serving the community.

Earlier in his career, Mr. Schakel served as a radioman in the United States Navy from 1963 to 1984. His naval service provided him with invaluable training and discipline, laying the groundwork for his later achievements. It was during his time stationed in Naples, Italy, that he first learned darkroom techniques, igniting his passion for photography, a pursuit that would become central to his life.

Mr. Schakel's educational background includes earning a high school diploma from TR Robinson in Tampa, Florida, in 1964. He attributes much of his success to the solid foundation laid by his Navy training and his parents' unwavering support. The discipline, life skills and work ethic developed during his years of military service have been instrumental throughout his diverse professional endeavors.

Throughout his career, Mr. Schakel has also made significant contributions as a scuba instructor, taking pride in knowing that some of his students have gone on to achieve notable accomplishments in military and diving careers.

Outside of his professional life, Mr. Schakel was born in Beech Grove and enjoys traveling, exploring remote locations, hiking through forests and spending time near waterfalls. These experiences often serve as inspiration for his photography. He finds fulfillment in capturing distinctive moments and allowing nature's beauty to influence his artistic vision.

Despite not having a traditional immediate family, Mr. Schakel has cultivated deep familial bonds through close relationships. He serves as a grandfather figure to three grandchildren—Ava, Addie and Emmy—through a longstanding friendship with Patricia and her adopted daughter Bina. Twelve years ago, Bina asked Mr. Schakel to be the grandfather to her daughter, Ava; since then, he has embraced this role for Ava and the younger twins, Addie and Emmy. He cherishes these connections and considers them true family.

Looking ahead, Mr. Schakel intends to make his photography website profitable by transforming his artistic work into a sustainable source of income. Additionally, he aspires to secure a significant acting role on stage or in film, building upon the successes he has already achieved in commercials and independent productions.

Mr. Schakel's enduring commitment to excellence across multiple disciplines stands as a testament to his adaptability, creativity and dedication throughout an accomplished career.

About Marquis Who's Who®:
Since 1899, when A. N. Marquis printed the First Edition of Who's Who in America®, Marquis Who's Who® has chronicled the lives of the most accomplished individuals and innovators from every significant field of endeavor, including politics, business, medicine, law, education, art, religion and entertainment. Who's Who in America® remains an essential biographical source for thousands of researchers, journalists, librarians and executive search firms around the world. The suite of Marquis® publications can be viewed at the official Marquis Who's Who® website, www.marquiswhoswho.com.

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