James lives just outside of Armidale in the New England High Country of New South Wales with his wife Renee and three daughters. His photographic practice blends elements of documentary and fine art photography, with a focus on lyrical telling of stories. James strives to make photographs that celebrate diversity, the beauty in simple things and that ultimately promote acceptance and understanding of those who may appear different to us or challenge our views.
email | jamesrusphoto@gmail.com
Capture Magazine, Emerging Photographer 8th Place, DocumentaryHighly Commended, Portraiture (2017)
Inclusion in New England High Country Book Project (2018)
Finalist Heritage Bank Photography Prize (2017 and 2019)
Overall Winner Glen Innes Photography Prize (2018)
Inverell Photography Prize, Winner Landscapes (2018)
Exhibited at New England Regional Art Gallery (2018); Armidale Art Gallery (2017/18); The Alternate Route Cafe – Uralla NSW (2017/18)
Highly Commended Australian Photography ‘Mono Awards’ (2019)
Published in New England Focus Magazine (2018-2020)
Published in New England Living Magazine (article and images, 2019)
Crowd funded and published ‘Corrugated Cathedrals’ Fine Photography Book (2020)
Highly Commended in Mono Awards (2022)
Highly Commended in Australia’s Top Emerging Photographers - Portraiture (2022)
Top 20 in Australia’s Top Emerging Photographer - Documentary (2022)
Semi-Finalist in Head On Portrait Awards (2024)
Highly Commended Mono Awards (2024)
Selected on merit to attend Stanley Barkers Photobook Masterclass (2026)
Selected on merit to attend the 2026 Chico Portfolio Review