Meet James Warren | Portrait and Interior Design Photographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with James Warren and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi James, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
My journey into starting my own business in photography stems from a lifelong connection to the world of entertainment. My father, a dedicated radio DJ in Denver, inspired my passion for creativity and encouraged my pursuits in video and photography. Over the years, I honed my skills working behind the scenes in Film and Television production, gaining valuable experience in the craft of storytelling and visual communication.

After moving back to Denver, I realized it was time to embark on an independent path and establish my own business specializing in photography and video production. This venture has allowed me to combine my technical expertise with a personal, client-centered approach. I am passionate about creating content that not only showcases the unique stories of my clients but also leaves a lasting impact on their lives.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
As a Denver native, I embarked on my journey in the creative arts, my passion was deeply intertwined with telling stories that matter. I began by creating short films in school that celebrated and amplified voices within the LGBTQ+ community. Over time, this passion led me to Los Angeles, where I had the privilege of working alongside producers dedicated to heroic and impactful stories from WWII. These experiences deepened my love for storytelling and allowed me to learn from some of the most talented creative professionals in development and production.

On set, I found myself drawn to the work of set photographers, which sparked a professional interest in photography. I began taking on side projects in portrait and headshot photography, discovering the joy of capturing people’s stories and essence through a single frame.

However, the 2023 writer’s strike brought significant challenges, with work in the industry nearly disappearing. It was a pivotal moment that made me realize I was ready to close that chapter of my life. I returned to Denver to be closer to family and decided to dedicate myself fully to photography. I’ve since invested in further technical training, refining my skills to provide my clients with exceptional work that speaks to their individuality and purpose.

What sets me apart is my commitment to storytelling—whether it’s through a portrait or a video, my goal is to create content that resonates on a deeper level. My journey hasn’t always been easy, but it has taught me the value of adaptability, perseverance, and staying true to my passions. I want the world to know that my brand is about more than just photography; it’s about connecting with people and crafting stories that leave a lasting impact.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Having made downtown Denver my home, I’ve fallen in love with all the vibrant experiences that the LoDo and RiNo districts have to offer. For dining, I’d start with incredible spots like Uchi Sushi for an elevated Japanese experience, Osaka Ramen for comfort food done right, and Safta for mouthwatering Mediterranean dishes.

For activities, a trip wouldn’t be complete without exploring some of Denver’s iconic staples. We’d dive into the immersive art world of Meow Wolf, visit the captivating exhibits at the Denver Zoo, and enjoy some nostalgic fun at 1 Up, a retro arcade bar. A stroll along the Platte River Park offers a perfect blend of city views and nature.

If the weather’s nice, we’d venture out to the scenic hiking trails at Golden Gate Park, Ken Caryl Valley, or Chatfield State Park, which are just a short drive away. For a true Colorado experience, we’d plan a mountain adventure to Buena Vista—one of my favorite spots for camping and taking in breathtaking views. No trip to the mountains is complete without visiting one of our rejuvenating hot springs, like Iron Mountain Springs, especially after a hike up to the stunning Hanging Lake.

Even though I don’t drink, Denver has an impressive selection of spots that cater to everyone, with plenty of great non-alcoholic options alongside craft cocktails at some impressive new eateries.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I want to dedicate this shoutout to my amazing friends and colleagues, Tessa and Rafa of Kali-Lu Interiors. Their incredible work in starting their own interior design company was a major source of inspiration for me to turn my passion for photography into a business. Watching their creativity, dedication, and success as their company took off sparked my motivation to pursue my own entrepreneurial journey. I’ve been fortunate to collaborate with them and witness firsthand the artistry and hard work they bring to their business. Their support and example have been invaluable to my story.

Website: https://www.jameswarrenphotography.com

Instagram: jimes49

Image Credits
All photos taken by me, James T Warren.