James Barkley

Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I moved to Boston in August 2015 from Melbourne Australia. I work as a Senior Art Director at one of Boston’s top advertising agencies and usually spend the rest of my time behind the lens of my camera.

When did you realize your passion for photography?
I’ve always enjoyed taking photos. However things changed for me after a holiday to Japan in April 2014. I was getting so many positive comments from co-workers and friends about the shots I had captured and shared on Instagram during my travels. I decided to take it more seriously after then. For me photography is more than just a ‘hobby’. It’s part of my identity.

What is your advice to aspiring photographers on Instagram?
I would recommend aspiring photographers to stick to what they love to capture. It’s so easy to get sucked into what others are doing or what’s most popular or ‘liked’. I think if you stay true to your own original style, it will find its own audience and following. No one sees the world like you do. So just show it how you see it.

Anything else you’d like to share?
I moved to Boston late last year not knowing a single soul and was so warmly welcomed into the photography community. It’s great meeting other like-minded individuals with a shared passion for photography. I’ve made some life-long friends thanks for the events held by the photo community here in Boston. So thank you!

Instagram: @jamesbarkleyphotography