James Alton Films

Director · Director of Photography

Stories felt
before they’re told.

Narrative, documentary, commercial and music-driven filmmaking from Kelowna, British Columbia.

Watch the 2025 showreel
Selected work →

Selected work

Film with a human pulse.

James combines a photographer’s eye with a calm, performance-focused approach to create images that feel cinematic without losing what is real.

A frame from the James Alton Films 2025 showreel. Director · DP · 2025 Play the latest showreel

Current slate

Current work.

A transparent look at selected work being developed, filmed, finished or held for release. Public release details will be added when each project is ready.

Reality television / documentary series

Vintage Rebel

In development

A co-development with Bob Blumer and Norm Coyne / Barker Street Cinema around Jason Parkes and the Okanagan wine and hospitality world. James is supporting as DP / Producer; Bob Blumer is director, and Corus Entertainment interest should be treated as interest only until a commitment exists.

Narrative film

Moonrise, Sunset

In development

An upcoming dramatic project in the Mabelville family of behind-closed-doors stories, being developed with cinematographer Harrison Mendel.

Dance films

The Village Dance Academy: 2026 Films

In the can

C is for Ciara, Sockeye 2026 and Wild Wild West are in the can. Public releases are planned for July 2026.

Portrait of film director and director of photography James Alton.

About James

A visual storyteller who understands the whole production.

James Alton is a Canadian director and director of photography known for emotionally attentive storytelling, shaped light and a grounded way of working with people on camera.

His background moves through photography, technology, directing, cinematography and producing. That range lets him see both the smallest human detail in a frame and the practical path required to bring an ambitious production to screen.

Based in Kelowna, British Columbia, James works locally and travels for narrative, documentary, broadcast, commercial and music projects.

Read the full about page

Selected recognition

Work that has travelled.

Because She’s Adopted

Best Canadian Documentary

Vancouver International Movie Awards · 2024

Mabel

Best Director · Best Actor

Toronto & Calgary Independent Film Festivals

Colorado

Best Music Video · Best Song

Okanagan Screen Awards · 2026

Open Road

Special Mention · Finalist

Thilsri International Film Festival · California Music Video and Film Awards

The Letter

Official Selection

Okanagan Screen Awards · 2026

Sockeye

Official Selection

Okanagan Screen Awards · 2024

Recognition is listed with each project and expanded on the About page. Explore recognition Press and screenings

Need the full production?

James leads larger productions through Kelowna Film Studios.

For producing, service production, production management, crews, locations and production infrastructure in British Columbia.

Visit Kelowna Film Studios