About James
I’m James.
I am a Documentary photographer in Taunton, Somerset working with people who don’t want stiff, awkward photos.
I work with individuals, families, creatives and small businesses around Taunton and Somerset, creating images that feel natural, relaxed, and properly you — not something that looks like it came out of a stock library.
No forced smiles. No weird poses. No pretending to be someone you’re not.
Just honest photography, done calmly and properly.
How I ended up doing this
I didn’t wake up one morning and decide to become a photographer.
I’ve spent most of my life working with people — coaching, teaching, creating, and telling stories — and photography became the thing that tied all of that together.
I realised pretty quickly that the bit I enjoyed most wasn’t the camera gear or the technical stuff (although yes, I do enjoy that too)…
It was making people feel comfortable enough to forget the camera was even there.
That’s when the good photos happen.
These days, photography is what I do full-time — and I treat it like a craft, not a content factory.
What it’s like to work with me
Very normal. Very relaxed.
I’ll guide you if you need it, but I won’t micromanage you or force anything that doesn’t feel right. Most shoots end up feeling more like a walk, a chat, or a bit of time doing your thing — with me quietly capturing moments along the way.
You don’t need to know how to pose.
You don’t need to “be confident”.
You don’t need to be anything other than yourself.
My job is to make the process easy and the end result something you’re actually proud to share.
Who I’m best suited for
I’m probably a good fit if you:
- hate being photographed but know you need good photos
- want images that feel natural rather than overly polished
- care more about connection than perfection
- want someone calm, friendly, and quietly confident behind the camera
If you’re looking for heavily staged, high-pressure shoots or ultra-posed editorial work, I might not be your guy — and that’s okay.
I’d rather work with people who value honesty over hype.
A quick note on location
I’m a Documentary photographer in Taunton Somerset, and work across Somerset and the South West.
Parks, streets, studios, workplaces, or somewhere meaningful to you — I’m always happy to suggest locations or build ideas together over a coffee in Without Borders in Taunton’s independent Quarter if you’re not sure where to start.
If this sounds like your kind of approach, you’re very welcome to get in touch.
No hard sell.
No awkward sales chat.
Just a conversation to see if we’re a good fit.
I am sure you have some questions.