Unleashing the New James!
Meet James (and His Co-Star, Annie!)
Say hello to James—a great guy with a winning smile whose journey to reclaim his health has us inspired. He serves as the Director of Strategic Systems at a fintech company in Minneapolis and was looking for an updated headshot and additional photos to begin the new year with a refreshed image, including some with his adorable Sheltie, Annie. (I don’t usually do pet photography, but in this case, I happily made an exception.) James was ready to step into 2025 feeling like his true self—and we felt honored he chose us to capture this milestone.
That transformation didn’t come easy—James battled shoulder and hamstring injuries that caused pain and swelling. He teamed up with Andrew Heaton, a national board-certified health and wellness coach and owner of LifeStrengthFitness, to tackle those issues through tailored training.
After seven months, he hit 12 goals, erased his discomfort, and—having already shed over 30 pounds—now enjoys hiking, pickleball, and dog walks injury-free, and wanted headshots that matched this renewed energy. Still, let’s be honest—Annie’s the one who truly lit up the session.
His one-and-only Sheltie, Annie, brings plenty of charm and sticks close by his side. Their bond shines through in every frame—playful poses one moment, quiet glances the next. It’s a connection that’s grounded him through life’s twists and turns (and likely earned her a treat or two along the way).
James came for headshots and some new professional photos, but he’s already eyeing a personal branding session down the line. For now, these images serve as a milestone for him—a subtle “after” that echoes his hard work and determination.
His story reminds us that small steps can carry you far. Blend some effort with a bit of heart and a loyal furry friend, and you’ve got the recipe for something special. Oh, and he did mention he’s single—he might even use a few of these shots for his dating profile. Ladies, heads up! ;-)
