Creative Photography, Websites, Tips, Inspiration, Ideas & Contests » Client Showcase

James’s Websites: bellephotography.com | bellfineart.com | belleseniors.com

Template Styles: Julie | Sophie | Samuel

Tell us about you and your business?
We’ve in our 6th year of business, although I started selling my art photographs in the late 60′s. My wife Boni and I run the business together. We spent the bulk of our careers in high tech, but had to get back into photography to keep our sanity! I’m also an adjunct professor of photography – I love teaching other photographers.

How would you describe your style of Photography?
Simple elegance is what we strive for. We studied fine arts, composition and design theory, etc. and we try to apply the classical elements of proportion, color, and focus. Some of CMD’s site designs match our style perfectly, too! For our art photography, we apply the same principles, but with a more painterly focus.

How many Photo shoots a year do you do?
Around 50-70. We’re not a big studio, and we don’t want to become one. We like to take the time to get to know our clients.

Where would be your perfect Holiday destination?
Provence, France (see www.bellefineart.com to understand why!). It’s what Tuscany could be like if it were cleaner and had better roads and drivers. We’ve visited 20 or so countries, and France is, overall, the most beautiful.

Why did you decide to become a Photographer?
Irresistible attraction. Of all the arts I’ve tried out, it gives me the most satisfaction. And it was the advent of digital photography, and in particular Photoshop, that got me back into it.

Which Camera do you use most?
The Canon EOS 1Ds Mk III is a fantastic camera (a bit heavy for weddings, but otherwise perfect). A close second is the 5D Mk II (which IS perfect for weddings).

What is your favorite Movie?
Phenomenon. Great story, great acting, great music, and it isn’t rushed the way so many Hollywood movies are.

How would you like your Photography to evolve in the next 5 years?
I’m comfortable with natural light photography, but want to get faster and more creative with studio lighting. We’re also planning to incorporate video, and more forms of electronic delivery.

Which one of your Photo’s do you consider to be your best?
We had to yank this couple away from their reception to get this shot. It’s a great example of the power of the 1Ds Mk III – this is a fairly tight crop, and the detail is remarkable. The couple ordered a 24″ x 36″ print from this sequence for their home, and the detail holds well even at that size.

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