Love, Captured.

Soulful + Cinematic

Wedding Photography.

Made with love in

San Luis Obispo, California.

Searching for your wedding photographer shouldn’t leave you feeling unwanted. Since my business’s beginnings in 2017, inclusive & compassionate service has remained priority number one - to document the love shared between people of all backgrounds, identities, shapes & sizes. It’s not only my mission to capture love, but to spread love as much as I can! As such, I work diligently to maintain a safe container for creative, authentic expression...with a whole lot of fun mixed in as well. I do this by simply being open to everyone I serve on a human level & celebrating your unique awesomeness. If this resonates with you, you've come to the right place. Let's connect!

i believe photography is for everyone.

“The thought and care put into each photograph is nothing short of magical.”

SARITA & JEDDY

Who I am!

Hey, I’m James! I live for the simple things: good food, good people, good times. Big fan of music festivals, road trips, and getting outside to hike or camp. When I'm not capturing weddings, you might even find me in the club where I moonlight as an underground DJ & music producer! I'm a nerd through & through and always love cozying up with a good podcast, movie, or the occasional video game. :)

 

I am also blessed with an amazing partner, Jamie, who offers relaxing wellness modalities to couples on their weddings as well (check her out)!

 

Above all, I love connecting with people and capturing their essence! I feel incredibly lucky that I get to hang out with so many amazing folks on some of their biggest milestones and make art out of life's most cherished memories.

 

If you enjoy my work and feel like we’d vibe, drop a line using the contact form below or DM me on Instagram: @jameslesterphoto

baileejerrod-_-married-2

FEATURED BLOGS

grass-room-dtla-wedding-james-lester-photography150
Grass Room DTLA Wedding, Grass Room Wedding, DTLA Wedding Photographer, James Lester Photography

urban, editorial, emotive

urban

editorial

festive

sunset-2

cinematic, adventurous, passionate

cinematic

adventurous

passionate

Wedding in Big Sur, Big Sur Wedding, Big Sur Wedding Photographer, San Luis Obispo Wedding Photographer, James Lester Photography
Wedding in Big Sur, Big Sur Wedding, Big Sur Wedding Photographer, San Luis Obispo Wedding Photographer, James Lester Photography
Wedding in Big Sur, Big Sur Wedding, Big Sur Wedding Photographer, San Luis Obispo Wedding Photographer, James Lester Photography

— As Seen On —

new-york-times-logo-no-background250
rocknrollbride-2
tk_bow_2024_badge-2
badge-weddingawards_en_us
portrait photography in slo
couples portrait photographers
preferred-vendor_-white-circle-transparent-background
equally-wed-preferred-vendor-2022-badge
equally-wed-pro-lgbtq-inclusive-certified-badge-copy
new-york-times-logo-no-background250
rocknrollbride-2
tk_bow_2024_badge-2
badge-weddingawards_en_us
couples portrait photographers
portrait photography in slo
preferred-vendor_-white-circle-transparent-background
equally-wed-pro-lgbtq-inclusive-certified-badge-copy

Recently on the blog

“We immediately felt comfortable to share and be vulnerable to be photographed.”

JEAN & DANIEL

my style

Soulful

 

Natural

 

Editorial

 

Light-Hearted

 

CINEMATIC

There are two common stylistic realms that many wedding photographers dwell in: "light & airy" or "dark & moody." I like to think my style falls somewhere in the middle!

 

During my photoshoots, I guide you through some easy yet elegant poses which capture you & your partner's sense of romance and candid fun. I then edit & grade the images in a cinematic direction to complete the look, taking the time to edit everything from the ground up rather than relying on purchased presets & shortcuts. In doing so, each photo gallery carries its own unique aesthetic that stands the test of time.

 

When we're together, I am always a friend first & foremost! I believe the best images are captured when the vibe is light-hearted & playful. Maybe you’ll even forget all about the camera… :)

 

Don't just take my word for it though ~ check out my entire body of work here and see for yourself if we're a good fit!

INQUIRE NOW

Interested? HIT ME UP! I’d love to hear from you.

I usually respond to message within 24-48 hours, but this may vary based on my work season. Thank you in advance for your patience!