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Part photographer, part creative collaborator, full-time chaser of light, waves and stories.
I’m a photographer, director and producer with over 15 years behind the camera, creating imagery that celebrates people and place. My background in documentary and outdoor storytelling has shaped how I see the world, chasing natural light, honest moments and capturing the action from the inside out. It’s that balance between raw and cinematic that lights my fire.
Part creative collaborator and producer, I have years of experience in producing and directing my own shoots; from small, intimate stories, to full-scale commercial campaigns, which can mean anything from location scouting and casting to creative direction, campaign ideation and delivery. I work closely with a brilliant network of collaborators - people, who like me, thrive when the weather turns, the tide changes, or the plan goes sideways.
I’m also a specialist in water photography - honed from my early days shooting surf from the lineups around the world to now creating unique perspectives for commercial clients in challenging aquatic environments.
I live in a cottage in West Cornwall where I also make apple juice and cider with my wife Hannah. When I’m not away shooting or in the sea surfing, you’ll find me there, trying my best at being a dad of two kids, four chickens, and a dog.
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I produce many of my own shoots, handling everything from location scouting, casting, art direction, and logistics, through to post-production and delivery.
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From the first spark of an idea to final delivery, I often help shape campaigns from concept through to execution, pitching, storyboarding, and building visuals that feel honest and aspirational.
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Over 15 years of directing and shooting real people, creating natural performances and genuine connection in front of the camera.
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Fluent in reading light, weather, and landscapes - comfortable shooting in everything from snowstorms to sea spray, with an eye for cinematic storytelling in unique environments.
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A specialist skill honed from years shooting surf around the world, now used to create distinctive perspectives for commercial and lifestyle clients in demanding aquatic environments.
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A trusted team of producers, stylists, and crew who are experts in outdoor, travel, and lifestyle production - ready to scale from solo projects to large international campaigns.
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Whether leading creative from the start or slotting into an existing agency structure, I’m comfortable adapting to whatever the project needs, wherever it takes me
“Working with James never feels like a photoshoot, it’s an adventure shared among friends. He has the ability to create an environment where moments unfold naturally, where connection and story lead. In a world of contrived or posed ‘authenticity’, James captures images that feel alive, full of heart, and spontaneity. His images don’t just record a moment; they tell the genuine story of it all with joy, warmth and they linger long in the memory! ”
– James Benn, Head of Creative at Gung Ho Communications“There’s a humanity in James’s storytelling and a vision that makes a single captured moment last a lifetime. You don’t have to have been there to feel it, yet his images make you want to step out and experience the world for yourself. Whatever the story, James finds truth where it matters most – in the quiet, in-between moments. It’s not always on the shot list, it’s not always expected, but it’s always a delight. Working with him is a supportive, creative partnership built on trust, possibility, and the kind of surprise that turns the unexpected into the unforgettable.”
– Katie O'Brien, Creative Lead, Vivobarefoot“James helped shape our photographic identity from the early days, bringing a startup mentality that was essential at the time. His ability to live the experience, capture it with authenticity, and balance that with strong product representation made him a key contributor. His collaborative approach built not just great work, but a lasting friendship.”
– David Gray, Creative Director, Finisterre