I was raised under an African sky in Cape Town, South Africa. In 1994, searching for adventure, I moved to New York City and found photography. Since my very first assignment for New York Magazine, I have never looked back. The combination of art, commerce and collaboration that is integral to commercial photography has been a winning formula throughout my career.
After 15 years in New York, I was drawn to the West Coast for its wide-open spaces and spectacular waves. I now live with my lovely wife, 2 sons, 2 dogs, a parakeet and a gecko in Northern California.
A collaborator at heart, I thrive working as part of a team. I embrace the challenge of bringing my clients’ ideas to life, always striving to help find a fresh vision for their brand. While I would describe myself as being a photographer with a “big picture” approach, I have an acute eye for detail, especially in terms of composition and light. I love to have a good time on set, laughter and humor being essential ingredients in a productive day.
Recently I have been exploring video with some of my hotel and catalog clients. My goal is to bring the same sense of light and simple beauty in my stills photography to a video format. I love the creative process of telling a story in motion.
Recent clients include 1 Hotels, Miraval Hotels, Sundance, Pottery Barn, Grey Poupon, James Hotels, Food & Wine and House Beautiful. I am based in the Bay Area but happy to travel anywhere for work.
When not on a photo shoot, I love to surf, mountain bike, travel in Africa, grow my own food and hang out with my family. I am an eternal optimist, always looking for goodness in the world around me.
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To contact James, please email him here:
james@jamesbaigrie.com Mobile: 917 544 1674 Office: 415 785 7127