Hey, I’m James!

I’m all about the simple joys in life—great people, good vibes, and making art out of memories. :)

Connection is everything to me. I love finding that shared spark with people, especially in unexpected ways. I feel incredibly lucky to turn those connections into timeless images that feel cinematic, rich, and full of love—almost like they were pulled out of an indie romance film. My background as a lifelong musician, film lover, and tech-enthusiast inspires my artistic style and editing approach, blending emotion, tone, and into every frame.

I wear a few hats: I’m a wedding & elopement specialist while engaging in various other avenues of photography, such as portrait work, Airbnbs, etc. I'm also blessed with my incredibly supportive fiancé, Jamie Nicole, and our derpy rescue chihuahua named Robyn...and you might even catch me out moonlighting as a DJ under my music project tames! Big fan of the arts, road trips, hikes, music festivals (aka heaven on earth), and low-key obsessed with all things cute, cozy, and wholesome. Jamie teaches meditation and sound healing, which she offers to couples and their guests at weddings as well (shameless plug). :)

Photography found me during a tough chapter—undiagnosed chronic illness left me sidelined from school and work, and I turned to nature and my phone camera as a form of healing. That creative spark lit a path I didn’t expect, and with encouragement from some amazing humans (shoutout to my mentor, Blake Andrews of SLOtography), I built a full-time career doing what I love most.

Fast forward nearly a decade: I’ve photographed 150+ weddings, been published in The New York Times, Rock & Roll Bride and more, and continue to shoot alongside the talented SLOtography crew while running my personal brand since 2017 (you are here).

I’m also a proud ally and LGBTQ+ Inclusive Certified Photographer through EquallyWed. My mission is to create safe, affirming spaces for all identities, shapes, sizes, and backgrounds. Therapy, inner work, and lifelong learning are part of how I show up—not just as a photographer, but as a human.

If you’re looking for someone who leads with heart, embraces your realness, and knows how to capture the magic in between moments—hit me up! I'd love to meet you. ♥︎