Christopher James

My Journey Into Photography:

My interest in photography first took shape early in the education system, through Media Studies. Photography wasn’t just about taking pictures - it could be a complete creative process. Tools like Photoshop and Lightroom opened up a world of possibilities, linking image creation to design, publication, and distribution.

Alongside Media Studies, I studied Art, which focussed my abstract and expressive side. The creative potential of combining visual storytelling with artistic thought quickly became clear.

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Formal Training & Hands-On Experience:

I completed a four-year diploma in Photography, which laid the technical and creative foundations I continue to draw on today. From studying the styles and compositions of world-renowned photographers to mastering the practical skills of working in a fully equipped studio, it was a comprehensive journey, spanning film to digital, cyanotypes to contemporary editing techniques.

Alongside this formal training, I gained invaluable hands-on experience during regular shoots and photo trips with my father. These moments helped develop not just my technical ability, but also an instinctive understanding of camera work, composition, and the quiet discipline of observation.

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From learning to looking differently:

I started with a simple but high-quality DSLR, modest but capable. Over time, I progressed to professional bodies as my understanding and style matured. My lens choices evolved too, moving to fast, professional primes. I didn’t rely on full-auto systems from the beginning; while they have their place, they offer little for true artistic or instinctive development.

Today, my setup reflects the many paths my photography has taken - from fine art and portraiture to wildlife and landscape. I currently shoot with Canon R7's & 5Ds', but I also enjoy the tactile experience of film. My medium format Bronica ETRS and 35mm classics like the Canon FTb QL and Olympus OM10 each offer a different perspective and creative energy.

Most used lenses include:

• 50mm f/1.2 – my go-to for portraits and artistic work - always with me

• 70–300mm (480mm equivalent on the R7) – ideal for travel and flexibility

• 17–40mm – for landscapes, architecture and street-scene

You can view the full list of our gear, along with explanations, on the Equipment page.

Why share this here?
Because I didn’t start with fully automatic cameras or rely on excessive post-processing. I learned to see the world with an artistic eye - not through the lens of social media trends or quick, low-quality shortcuts. Real photography takes time, thought, and vision - and that’s what I aim to bring to every image.

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Looking Back, Moving Forward:

It’s interesting to reflect on how far this journey has taken me in a relatively short time. From early experiments to fully realized projects across multiple genres, photography has become more than just a skill, it’s become a way of seeing, of exploring, and of creating meaning through images.