James Lawes
@jamesericlawes

James Lawes is a story‑led commercial director known for combining emotive performances with smart, in‑camera visuals. Originally trained at the New York Film Academy, he approaches every brief like a short film—tight casting, clear beats, and photography that serves character first.

Across automotive, food, sport and public‑service campaigns, James favours practical techniques—controlled lighting, motivated camera movement and on‑set gags—then adds restrained VFX to keep the work grounded. He is a collaborative planner, often building look‑books, boards and shot‑lists with agency and client, and he’s hands‑on in edit and sound where timing and tone lock the idea. Along the way his work has been recognised at festivals including Cannes, EVCOM and the New York Film Festival.

Recent projects for brands such as Chevrolet, Old El Paso, BUPA and public‑health bodies show his range—from kinetic action to quiet, human moments. Whatever the scale, the aim is the same: make the audience feel something—and make it feel true.

Directors
James Lawes