Manolis Metzakis was born in Iraklio, he is a graduate of the University of Crete, with a degree in Mathematics. In 1989 he joined the Hellenic Photographic Society of Crete. In January 1992 he stood, for the first time, as a candidate to the Administrative Committee of the H.P.S. Crete. On being elected he took up the duties of General Supervisor. From January 2000 he is the Chairman of the Hellenic Photographic Society, Crete. From 1990 onwards he has participated in national photographic exhibitions.
He has taken part in 39 exhibitions, showing 85 different pieces of work which, in turn, have won 14 gold medals, 7 silver , 3 bronze , 15 awards and 165 merits. From 1993 onwards he has taken part regularly in international photographic exhibitions. He has taken part in 450 such exhibitions, showing 80 different pieces of work, which have won, 5 gold medals, 6 silver, 4 bronze, 28 honorable mentions and 720 acceptances. In May 1996, the Federation internationale de l'art Photographique, F.I.A.P., honoured him with the artistic title A. FIAP (Artist FIAP), in recognition of his artistic achievements nationally and in international photography competitions. In December 1999 the F.I.A.P. awarded him the highest recognition, the title E.FIAP (Excellent F.I.A.P.). In December 1996 the Photographic Society of America enrolled him as a member and in September 1997 awarded him the title of 'Single Star' photographer. In May 1999 he was awarded the title 'Double Star' photographer. In July 1998 he became a member of the Hellenic Guild of Fine Arts. From 2000 he has taken part to many competitions as a judge. Since 1990 he has been teaching in a series of seminars, held by the Greek Photographic Society of Crete, for both beginners and more advanced photographers. He has been employed by the Technical Institute of Higher Education of Iraklio since Septemper 2000, where he teaches Photographic Technology and Biomathematics..