I hired James to take some professional portrait shots for a website I'm launching. Before the shoot, he sent me a link to a Pinterest board which allowed me to show him examples of what I was looking for ahead of time. Based on that, we chose a location and time for the shoot. In person, he was personable, knowledgable, and clearly has a great eye for photography. He really listened to what I was looking for and spent the time to understand my intention. He then offered suggestions I hadn't even considered and really helped to actualize the idea I had in mind. His easy-going manner and humor helped me relax and enjoy the shoot. Although a little stiff and uncomfortable at first, by the end of the several hours of the shoot, I really didn't want to stop! We were able to be creative and have some fun with different backgrounds and angles while shooting in an old city neighborhood. The photos really capture who I am and what I wanted to convey and that was due to James' professionalism, creativity, and insight. James made the process super easy and a real pleasure. I absolutely recommend James Kern and will be calling him again when I next need some amazing photos! read more

James is a skilled photographer in so many ways. He's relaxed yet high energy and always positive, making sure you feel your best and totally comfortable in front of the camera. He fosters trust between himself and his collaborators, which is invaluable and makes all the difference in the results of the shoot. He clearly knows what he's doing but continues to gain skills throughout his shoots, experimenting with new ideas and always working to exceed expectations and achieve his vision, while leaving room to be surprised by new opportunities in the moment. He's a versatile artist, able to skillfully work in all sorts of setups and situations, both in-studio and outdoors. He's collaborative and always open to ideas from those he works with. And maybe most importantly, he takes and creates stunning photos! read more

James Kern is a really wonderful photographer because he captures the essence of the person he is photographing. He senses their personality right away, and is able to capture that. I was amazed how easily and quickly he was able to do this. He came to my house, set up his equipment super quick, took photo after photo of me, his subject, and quick as an elf or a gnome jumping around in his forest, he was able to change the scene, to capture a shot of me in another setting. He welcomed an 11 year old boy who lives here and who was very interested to sit quietly and view the proceedings which created a pleasant atmosphere all around. And he gave me what felt like a ton of photos to choose from. His prices were also so affordable. Loved him read more

My boyfriend and I have a tradition of doing awkward Christmas photos every year and this year, we were looking for a photographer that would lean into the comedy with us. James was the best photographer for the job. He came to our home and worked closely with us to make sure he had us set up for the best shot. He was patient when working with our pets (a cat and a dog) and he helped us get some amazing shots. He was easy to communicate with and even got us the proofs of the photos within a couple hours of the shoot. I plan on working with James in the future whether it be for a serious headshot or for another funny photoshoot! read more

I thoroughly enjoyed working with James. I hired him to take photos of me proposing to my girlfriend. He was eager to help plan the logistics so that she would be surprised and he could take the best pictures possible. I truly appreciated his willingness to go above and beyond. He captured the moment beautifully. He then edited the photos we wanted and they all turned out great. I appreciated how quick he is to respond to questions/concerns and how available he makes himself throughout the entire process. I highly recommend him and would definitely use him again. read more

James was wonderful to work with! I needed a headshot for my business and, although I equate having my picture taken with visiting the dentist, James took the time to make me feel comfortable and learn exactly what I was looking for in advance of our meeting. By the time we met, I felt as if he was a trusted friend. He took quite a few photos that I liked, which says a lot coming from someone who doesn't like any photos of herself! I will definitely use James again and recommend him to anyone needing personal photos. read more

James Kern Photography was a pleasure to work with. He showed up on time and ready to go. He asked very good questions so as to get a pulse for what the expectations were for the event. His set up was very professional and added more of a certain elegance to our event. After the event, Mr. Kern wasted no time at all in getting the photos to me. I fully recommend this service to anyone who is looking for a photographer who is reasonable on price and top notch in skills and equipment. read more

I was overjoyed with the experience with having James as the photographer for my Mother's retirement party. Capturing those special moments was so important to my family and I and James succeeded! James arrived at the venue early and was 100% prepared. During the event, James was conversing with the guest, working candids and also setting up photos. He was everywhere as if he had a double with him! I'll definitely be reaching out to James in the future for his great work. read more

I was super happy with the service that was provided. Not only were the pictures high quality, James overall was just a very easy-going/chill guy. It did not even feel like I hired a photographer to take a picture of me but more like a friend who knows how to snap extremely quality pics. Being the first time I have hired a photographer, I would not hesitate in coming back to James for future situations and would recommend to anyone looking to have a picture taken. read more

James was an absolute delight! My colleague and I booked his services for professional headshots for our company website. He was very easy to work with in terms of booking, arrived promptly on time, and had all of his equipment with him! He took a number of different photo options for us in and made sure each hair was in place and that we were happy with our poses and expressions in each photo. I would definitely work with him again in the future! read more

I came across James' portfolio on Thumbtack and I will admit, I was very nervous about getting my headshots done. He was available the next day, and made me feel very comfortable within a few minutes of arriving at his studio. I am very pleased with the results, and believe these photos are just what I needed to be taken seriously in the world of real estate. If you are looking for professional looking photos, I would highly recommend James! read more

James is an incredible photographer and human. He takes his knowledge of photography and listens to what you want/need to make sure you get a quality product. He is kind and fun, working with him easy and comfortable. I think the fact that he is skilled both in front of the camera and behind it makes a huge difference in how he works, he understands both sides of the coin extremely well. read more

James is a great photographer who understands composition and expression. I hired him to do boudoir photos, and he made the atmosphere very comfortable. He uses professional lighting and camera equipment, and the photos that he took turned out great. He also provides lots of suggestions for poses and angles. I definitely recommend James! read more

James is prom and fun! We scheduled him super last minute for a corporate group of headshots with about 11 people. He came prepared and ready to set up shop. We got through all 11 in under an hour. He even hung around a bit for one of our last co workers to show! Excited to see the pictures and excited to put them on our website. read more

James was great. Nice guy helpful with how I should stand. I enjoyed the time taking the pictures. They all came out great. I went to him because I am a realtor and needed some head shots and from the way they came out I will be contacting him in the future when I need a photographer to take pictures of my house listings read more

This guy REALLY knows his way around the camera!! He's done work for me recently and i have to honestly say he's worth faaaar more than what money could pay!! He's professional, compassionate and knowledgeable!! I could go on and on but u think you ger the point!! I PROMISE you won't be dissappointed in his work!! read more

I was looking for professional photos for my website and did not know where to even start. I am truly grateful that I came across James! He made what is usually a stressful situation feel so natural. He also has great taste in music and appreciate all of his suggestions! Highly recommend. Thanks again, James! read more

Definitely recommended. James is incredibly talented. It's not just his photographic skills, but also how he treats people. He is patient, encouraging, and able to deal with my anxiety and awkwardness in front of the lens. I guarantee you'll have a great time during the shoot and also amazing pictures! read more

Being the subject of a photo shoot is hard; it's easy to get super self-conscious and nervous. That is, unless you have an awesome photographer like James. Not only does he have an amazing eye for light and composition, he makes a shoot fun, easygoing, and an all around great experience! read more