My name is Emili James, I am a born and raised OBX girl!

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I have been practicing photography since I was 12 years old. My dad gave me his old Nikon to play around with, and the rest is history. My youth was filled with endless photoshoots with my sister and friends exploring every abandoned house, field, hotel, and rental the beach had to offer. During this time, I fell in love with film-shooting on hundreds of CVS disposable cameras and the cheapest rolls of film I could find- and still prioritize shooting on it.

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I originally perused film photography in college, where I learned to develop my own film, and studied abroad in Italy continuing my art studies.

Since then have worked for countless of brands on campaign work, family photos, senior portraits, maternity portraits, engagement photos, and am now expanding into the world of wedding photography. 

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Where my real passion lies is in traveling and capturing documentary style photos on these journeys. I work hard during the OBX busy season, and enjoy traveling with the love of my life, Dylan, and our friends in the off. I am always looking to go somewhere new, meet new people, and get lost in the present.

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I would love to work with you in capturing moments that are invaluable! Please email me or dm on instagram to create your own photography bundle. I work with all budgets and photo needs.