Business Details
49 Years
experience
Des Moines Portrait & Event Photographer with 40+ Years of Experience
With over four decades of experience, I have dedicated my career to capturing life's most meaningful moments through photography. My journey began in 1977, and since then, I have had the privilege of photographing two former U.S. Presidents, the 1980 Olympics, and countless families, weddings, and senior portraits. My passion lies in connecting with clients and preserving their milestones with professionalism and artistry. Whether working in-studio or on-location, I prioritize understanding each client's unique needs to deliver images that reflect their story.My commitment to excellence extends beyond photographyI actively engage with the Des Moines community through school presentations, nonprofit contributions, and sharing my expertise. As a certified private pilot and avid tennis player, I bring a dynamic perspective to every shoot, ensuring clients receive both technical precision and creative vision. My goal is to make every session comfortable and enjoyable, capturing authentic moments that families and professionals will cherish for generations.
Services
Wedding Photography
Senior Pictures
Business Portraits
Commercial Photography
Aerial Shots
Video Coverage
Fine Art Prints
Details
- Year established: 1977
Highlights and features
- We offer 40+ years of professional photography experience with diverse clientele.
- Our team prioritizes personalized preparation for every session or event.
- We provide quick turnaround with online photo access and print options.
- Our photographer maintains professional certifications beyond photography, including piloting.
- We actively contribute to the Des Moines community through educational and nonprofit work.
What people say
True professional
Great natural smile
Photos turned out great
Highly recommend
Attentive photographer
Services
Wedding Photography
Specializing in capturing weddings with a blend of candid moments and guided poses. Our approach ensures timeless images that document your unique celebration. With decades of experience photographing high-profile events, we combine technical expertise with artistic vision to create a cohesive visual story that preserves your special day for generations.
Senior Pictures
Creating professional senior portraits that reflect individual personalities. Sessions include location scouting and wardrobe consultation to ensure authentic representation. Our photographer's extensive experience working with youth groups ensures comfort and confidence during shoots, resulting in images that celebrate this important milestone with both style and sincerity.
Business Portraits
Professional business photography services for executives and organizations. We deliver polished, confidence-inspiring images that enhance professional branding. Our efficient process minimizes disruption while ensuring high-quality results that meet corporate standards. Clients appreciate the quick turnaround and attention to detail in every business portrait session.
Commercial Photography
Comprehensive commercial photography solutions for marketing and branding needs. Our services include product photography, location shoots, and promotional imagery that captures business essence. With experience working with local companies, we understand how to translate brand values into compelling visual content that resonates with target audiences and strengthens market presence.
Aerial Shots
Unique aerial perspective services using professional drone equipment. Ideal for real estate, events, and landscape documentation. Our certified pilot brings technical expertise and creative vision to capture striking overhead imagery. This service adds dynamic dimension to traditional photography offerings, providing clients with distinctive visual storytelling options.
People
James R. Cobb
Owner/Photographer
Professional photographer since 1977 with experience photographing U.S. Presidents and major events. Certified private pilot and former tennis professional who brings diverse perspective to photography. Active community contributor through school presentations and nonprofit work in Des Moines.
Questions
What photography services do you specialize in?
We specialize in wedding photography, senior portraits, business headshots, commercial projects, aerial photography, and video coverage across the Des Moines metro area.
How long has James Cobb been a professional photographer?
James Cobb has been a professional photographer since 1977, with over 40 years of experience capturing important moments for clients.
What can I expect during a photo session?
Expect personalized preparation, professional execution, and quick turnaround. We discuss needs beforehand, capture natural moments during sessions, and provide online access to edited photos.
Do you offer fine art prints?
Yes, we offer fine art prints available in various sizes and finishes that make excellent additions to homes or offices.
How do you handle event photography?
We approach events with strategic preparation, capturing candid moments while guiding key shots. Our experience with large-scale events ensures comprehensive coverage from start to finish.
What makes your photography different?
Our unique combination of technical expertise, artistic vision, and personal connection with clients ensures authentic, high-quality images that truly capture your story.
