About James Kelly-Smith
Landscape Photographer in the Forest of Dean
Hello, I'm James.
I'm a landscape photographer based in the Forest of Dean, creating photography inspired by the forests, valleys and mountains of Britain. While I photograph across the UK, the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley are where I spend most of my time and where much of my work begins.
Photography started as a hobby, but over the years it has become a way of combining several things I enjoy, exploring new places, learning about local history and sharing landscapes that mean something to people.
Whether you're looking for a Forest of Dean print, searching for a landscape photographer, or simply enjoy discovering beautiful places, I'm delighted you've found me.
Photographing the Forest of Dean, Wye Valley and Wales
Most of my photography starts with an early alarm clock, a weather forecast and a hope that conditions will come together at just the right moment.
Although I photograph throughout Wales and other parts of Britain, living in the Forest of Dean, I inevitably spend most of time here. No matter how many times I visit the same woodland or viewpoint, the changing seasons, weather and light mean there's always something different to discover.
Landscape photography isn't just about finding impressive views. It's about noticing those small moments that often disappear within minutes, a patch of mist drifting through the trees, the first light reaching a woodland floor or the colours of autumn appearing for only a few weeks each year.
One of the nicest comments I receive is when someone tells me that one of my photographs reminds them of a favourite walk, somewhere they grew up or a place they still visit today. Knowing my work helps people reconnect with those places is one of the reasons I enjoy photography so much.
Photography, History and Storytelling
The photography is only part of what interests me.
I'm equally fascinated by the history, folklore and hidden stories behind the places I photograph. I'm a big fan of J. R. R. Tolkien, and am drawn to scenes that capture the imagery of Middle Earth. An ancient yew tree, the ruins of a forgotten building or an old woodland track often has a story that's just as interesting as the photograph itself.
Before visiting many locations, I'll spend time researching local history, reading old maps or finding out why a place is significant. That research has become a big part of the enjoyment and often changes the way I see a landscape.
It's also why I started writing.
Alongside my photography, I regularly publish articles about the Forest of Dean, Wye Valley and beyond, sharing local history, hidden locations and the stories behind many of my photographs via my blog. Through my monthly JKS Journal, I also give subscribers a deeper look at the places I've been exploring and the projects I'm working on.
For me, understanding a place often makes photographing it even more rewarding.
Creating Fine Art Landscape Photography
Capturing the photograph is only the first part of the process.
Every decision afterwards is just as important.
If I'm not prepared to compromise when creating a photograph, I'm certainly not prepared to compromise when bringing it into someone's home.
That's why I work with trusted professional print labs and carefully chosen suppliers to produce my fine art prints, framed prints, calendars, greeting cards and photography book, VAREST. Every product is designed to showcase the photograph properly and to be something people can enjoy for years to come.
Rather than producing large quantities of products, I'd much rather create a smaller collection that reflects the quality and care that went into capturing the photograph in the first place.
Recognition
Over the years my landscape photography has been recognised by a number of respected organisations and publications.
Highlights include:
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Two Honourable Mentions in the International Photography Awards
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Two Finalist awards in the One Eyeland World Top Black & White Photographers competition
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Publication in Outdoor Photography Magazine
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Photography used to promote the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley as visitor destinations
While these achievements are incredibly rewarding, the greatest recognition continues to come from customers who choose to display my photography in their homes or gift it to family and friends who share a love of these landscapes.
Working with Local Businesses and Organisations
Alongside creating photography for collectors and nature lovers, I'm proud to work with local businesses and organisations that share my passion for celebrating the Forest of Dean and surrounding landscapes.
My photography has been used by accommodation providers, tourism organisations and independent businesses to showcase the beauty of the area, helping visitors discover everything this remarkable region has to offer.
I'm always interested in working with organisations that value high-quality landscape photography and authentic storytelling
Explore More
If you've enjoyed learning more about my work, there are plenty of ways to continue exploring.
Read articles about the Forest of Dean, Wye Valley and Britain's landscapes, including local history, photography locations and hidden places.
Join my monthly newsletter for photography, stories, behind-the-scenes updates and exclusive content.
Browse my collection of Forest of Dean prints, Wye Valley photography, calendars, greeting cards and fine art products
Explore my photographic journey through the Forest of Dean in VAREST, a book combining landscape photography with essays about the places that inspired it.
