James H Marks

A fourth-generation Northern Californian, I was born in Chico August 11, 1955.

Taking an interest in photography at 18 after acquiring a 35mm camera in Tokyo, I attended Brooks Institute of Photography, graduating in 1979. After graduation, I worked for a year in Truckee, CA as a stringer for McClatchy Publishing, creating feature articles on the history of the Tahoe/Truckee area. Moved to Grass Valley, CA, in 1981 and and commuted to Hollywood for three years serving as an assistant to commercial photographers, principally Elliot Gilbert, Tony Korody, Pierre, Marcus Tate, and Reid Miles.

In Grass Valley I owned and operated a studio and commercial lab from 1985 to 1995, working in 35mm, 6x7cm, 4x5in and 8x10in formats. When the world of graphics went digital, it was time to change venues. I spent two years developing an equestrian program for SED boys 8-18 in a ranch environment. Learned a lot about about how kids think.

After two years I joined the movie circus in 1997, performing equestrian skills for location films such as the POSTMAN, Ride With the Devil, The Patriot, and The Alamo. Very satisfying work, but a little too dangerous and unstable.

Could not stay away from photography. After moving to Eureka, CA in 200...

Brooks Institute of Photography - 1976/79
Illustration/Color Technology

Humboldt State University - 2004-2007
Art History/Museum Management