About Me

Hi, I'm Chris Bell, a passionate landscape and portrait photographer calling the rugged beauty of Creede, Colorado, my home and endless inspiration. Nestled in the heart of the San Juan Mountains, this remote gem of a town—with its mining history, crystal-clear Rio Grande waters, and vast alpine vistas—fuels my lens. I have not regretted for one moment trading city lights for starry nights above 8,800 feet.

My photography journey started alongside my passion for multi-day backpacking adventures and has developed into a desire to blend the stories of people with the epic drama of nature. In portraits, I attempt to freeze a moment in time for my clients, capturing more than just a picture. Being a father of 4 and married for 31 years has helped me understand the connection of photography to memories. For landscapes, I sometimes hike deep into the wilderness—think golden hour on the Continental Divide—using long exposures to reveal Colorado's raw, untamed soul.

What drives me? The thrill of turning fleeting light into timeless art. Whether it's empowering a client through a headshot session or printing a canyon panorama that transports viewers to the high country, I aim to evoke wonder and connection. 

Based in Creede, I'm available for commissions across southern Colorado and beyond—portraits, editorials, fine art prints, or custom adventures. Let's create something magical together. Reach out or follow my exploits on Instagram @ChristopherJames_Photography.