James Russell has just won the Advertising category at the prestigious Professional Photographer of the Year Awards, with his stunning image of an Audi R8 sports car. He was the only representative from the North West to win one of the categories and the award follows on from his success in the North West British Institute of Professional Photography Awards in 2008. There James won with the same image, but this time his entry was set amongst an international field. 

The award ceremony, held at the Sustain studio in London at the end of January was hosted by Grant Scott, editor of Professional Photographer magazine, who presented James with his award. Grant commented that they had received over 7,500 entries and that the quality of work entered this year had been incredible. The celebrity photographer, David Bailey, was awarded a Lifetime Award.  James’ image was selected for its ability to create a direct and immediate response - always key in advertising photography. The image is used regularly by the British Institute of Professional Photography to promote its services and attracts attention wherever it is shown. 

James said: “I was absolutely thrilled to win the award and have my work recognised at a wider national and international level. “At the time, the Audi R8, was one of the first in the country and I was commissioned by the PKD Group of Cheadle Hulme to take the photograph.” PKD only had the car in the showroom for a day and so James was on deadline from the off.  “I didn’t let the tight time schedule phase me and I set to work to get the right image immediately. “I was delighted with the result, as was my client - it was one of those rare, fleeting opportunities.” 

James Russell Photography specialises in commercial and PR photography, whether it’s corporate portraiture, product shots or a company’s premises. His work is characterised by effective use of lighting and strong composition as in the Audi R8 image.  

James Russell Photography is based in Macclesfield and James’ projects often take him on location all over the North West and further afield. More of his work can be viewed on his website www.russell-photo.com