Black and white photograph of the Hollywood sign on a hillside, with a chain-link fence in the foreground and a foggy or hazy atmosphere.

About us

MEET THE TEAM

James Ray Spahn Photographer is a distinguished husband and wife photographer and stylist team specializing in various industries, including architecture, interior design, hospitality, and advertising. With over three decades of experience capturing stunning images, James Ray Spahn has established himself as an award-winning photographer renowned for his exceptional work ethic and unparalleled talent.

It all began with the 110 camera at the young age of 13, igniting a lifelong passion for photography. James’s dedication to his craft led him to the prestigious Brooks Institute of Photography in Santa Barbara, California, where he graduated at the top of his class with honors in Advertising and Illustration Photography.

Alongside James is his wife, Carolyn Connolly Spahn, a seasoned stylist with a keen eye for detail. The Spahns are a dynamic pair dedicated to capturing the essence of every project they undertake. Carolyn's background in styling and interior design, combined with James's technical expertise, results in visually stunning imagery that has resonated with audiences around the world.

With clients all across the U.S., the Spahns built much of their success in Colorado, where they also chose to raise their family. Extending their roots to Santa Barbara, California in 2023, they now divide their time between Santa Barbara and Crested Butte, Colorado. Together, James and Carolyn chase the next great image, bringing creativity, passion, and years of experience to every shoot. Whether for Architects, Interior Designers, Work Space, editorial, or marketing purposes, James Ray Spahn Photographer delivers unparalleled excellence.

If you are looking for a seasoned, detail-oriented team to bring your project to life, connect with us today!

We are part of Wonderful Machine network.

Black and white photo of a man with short gray hair, wearing a dark denim shirt with rolled sleeves, standing against a plain background with his hands on his hips.

The Photographer

James Ray Spahn

James Ray Spahn is an award-winning photographer renowned for his commitment to excellence and unparalleled creativity.

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Living room with a curved sofa, cushions, a glass coffee table with books, a wall with wood paneling, a framed black-and-white portrait of a woman with a bubble gum bubble, and a woman standing near an open door in the background, outside greenery visible.

The Stylist

Carolyn Connolly Spahn

Carolyn Connolly Spahn’s journey as a Visual Coordinator for Tommy Hilfiger in Los Angeles and San Francisco led to her joining James full-time, bringing her attention to detail and extensive design experience to every project

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what we offer

our Services

Exterior view of Four Seasons Private Residences Los Angeles entrance with glass doors, lounge chairs outside, and a security guard at the reception desk.

Architectural Photography

View of an industrial building interior with large metallic ducts, open space, and staircases under construction.

Commercial Photography

Living room with four white armchairs around a dark wood coffee table, fireplace with a modern fire feature, built-in white bookshelves on each side of the fireplace, flat screen TV above, green plants, lamps, and large windows providing natural light.

Interior Photography

Modern kitchen with white cabinets, a large island with seating, wooden beams, stone walls, and pendant lights hanging from the ceiling.

Styling

kind words

Testimonials

  • "We have had the pleasure to work with James several times on some of our top award-winning projects. His artistic eye and his attention to detail coupled with his absolute perseverance, resulted in incredible photography. His recent photographs of Star Mesa and the Fullerton Residence earned our firm architectural awards and regional editorial coverage. We appreciate James can-do attitude and fun demeanor, and would highly recommend James."

    - (Rebecca Richardson, Director of Business Development & Marketing, Aspen, Colorado Charles Cunniffe Architects)

  • "James is not only someone I'd love to have do as many shoots for me as possible, he's also someone I'd like to hang out with. He's simply a good guy. To be sure, he's an artist, but he also understands the business of his clients, which means he's the master of accommodation. He doesn't quit until the work is done right. He never takes shortcuts and always gives me more images than I thought possible. He's one of those go-to guys you like having in your electronic rolodex."

    - (Michael McCarthy, Editorial Director at TMG Custom Media, former Editor-in-Chief at Timber Home Living and Log Home Living)

  • “No matter what type of project, James makes shoots easy, from planning through execution. His attention to detail and fresh perspective show in every shot. The final result is always outstanding and reflects his thoughtful approach and thorough preparation. He invests a little bit of himself in every shoot, and it shines through."

    - (M.R. Hicks Director of Marketing OZ Architecture & Interior Design, Denver, Colorado www.ozarch.com)

  • "During my tenure as Group President of Tommy Hilfiger, we purchased photographs from James because of his unique eye toward the iconic elements that define America. We were looking for just his point of view to supplement a marketing campaign. James has an ability to capture the pure essence of his subjects. In our case it was the American Flag in motion, the Statue of Liberty as one would see her arriving to the US for the first time, and above all the beauty of the American West. He was delightful to work with and very partnering in terms of achieving our goals. The finished work is always beautifully packaged. I highly recommend him."

    - (Lynn Shanahan President Marimekko North America)

  • "James and I have collaborated on photo shoots on numerous occasions, photographing homes for several magazines I've headed up. He does an outstanding job and is very easy to work with. I enjoy our relationship immensely and hope to continue it into the future."

    - (Donna Peak Executive Director at National Association of Home Builders)

  • "There are not enough positive attributes that I can use to describe the work of James Ray Spahn. His work is outstanding and I would recommend him to anyone wanting to perform a photo shoot"

    - (Mathew Sterchi VP - Sales & Marketing at StoneMill Log & Timber Homes)

WORK WITH US

Currently accepting projects in Colorado, California & everywhere in between. Connect with us today, and let’s chat about your next project.

LET'S CONNECT