Richmond Event Photographers

James is an internationally published, award-winning photographer based in Richmond, Virginia. Over the past few years, his lens has been primarily focused on travel, tourism, commercial, portrait and headshot work. Not everything translates into a beautiful image with a traditional aesthetic – and James doesn’t shy away from those shots. Sometimes a unique perspective or detail creates a more powerful picture. Those are the photos that are worth waiting to capture. ​ James’ work has been on display at the Virginia Museum of History and Culture. His series for the Flying Squirrels adorned the covers and accompanied multiple features in their programs. ​ Many of his powerful, unique images have been published and shared in print and web in 7 countries and in social media platforms across the globe. James’s images of cityscapes and landscapes have been featured by Southern Living, CBS, NBC, Virginia Tourism, Kentucky Tourism, and Indiana Tourism. His commercial portfolio of marketing and event photography clients includes The Richmond Symphony, Capital One, ISL Futbol/FC Barcelona Escola, the Richmond Kickers, the Flying Squirrels, Live! Casino and Hotel, and Maryland Tourism. Promotional images adorn City Stadium and the Diamond in Richmond. His work has also accompanied a variety of articles in Richmond Grid. He built his reputation and initial portfolio on action sports photography and has worked with youth, collegiate, and professional leagues. His action sports work has been featured in the USL, EPL, NBC Sports, and the Richmond Times-Dispatch. James has also enjoyed working with non-profit organizations such as World Pediatric Project, The Next Move Program, ACLU, The Byrd Theatre Foundation, EnRichmond, CapABLE, Higher Achievement, and The Richmond Pitbull Project.

I’m a full time wedding photographer bringing life to couples during their special day but also helping more and more clients everyday with the photography needs

Ever since I was little, I have always had an eye for special moments, and really paying attention to detail. I am originally from New Orleans, La, but now I reside in North Chesterfield, Va with my wonderful family. I have 3 beautiful children: Ariel (9), Quinn (8), and Tegan (6), as well as my husband, Michael. I survive on pumpkin spice lattes and I’m a sucker for all things fall related! When I am not on mom duty, I am out capturing beautiful images for others. I like to make others feel comfortable when choosing me for their photographer and not have to stress over anything! I was taught how to do photography from my amazing husband in 2018 and ever since then, I have fallen in love with being a photographer. I specialize in weddings, lifestyle, portraits, and so much more.

I received my BFA in photography at Virginia Commonwealth University in 2005. I primarily studied film while in college and am self taught in regards to the digital era. I built a darkroom in several of my apartments while in school. I've been through about 7 different digital SLR cameras, upgrading as the technology advanced. I still often shoot film for the joy of it. I used the skills I learned in undergrad and applied them to learning everything I could about digital photography and lighting. I discovered that I loved the crisp image that only a prime lens can lend to an image, though I do love my 70-200mm for it's dynamic range. After college I worked as a darkroom technician, developing and printing large format prints and working with historic negatives. I moved to Charlottesville for a year and worked as a product photographer for an online retailer at Music Today. I started 2nd shooting for a local wedding photographer and fell in love with the raw documentary nature of the work. I moved back to Richmond and started my business, focusing primarily on Wedding photography. I've also done portraits, editorial and corporate work and hope to do more of this work, diversifying myself as a photographer.

My passion for photography lies within storytelling. I aim to take the time to get to know my models before throwing them infant of my camera so that I am able to properly tell their story. I love the human experience and try to put forth that in my photos.

**Working Exclusively Outdoors Now** Hunter Henkel is an experienced professional photographer who has worked with domestic and international clients throughout Greater Richmond for over 20 years. She has a bachelors degree in photo & film from Virginia Commonwealth University. She specializes in corporate, wedding, event and portrait photography. Her clients and photos have been used by Capital One, Goodwill Industries, Thomson Reuters and Dick Sporting Goods.