William James (photographer)

William James (1866-1948) was a Canadian photographer best known for his extensive documentation of the Canadian West, particularly Alberta, during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He captured images of early settlers, Indigenous peoples, landscapes, townscapes, and industries, providing a valuable visual record of the region's development and history.

James's work is characterized by its documentary style and attention to detail. He worked in a variety of photographic formats, including glass plate negatives, and produced a large body of work that now resides in various archives and museums. His photographs offer insights into the social, economic, and cultural life of Western Canada during a period of significant change. He operated a successful photography studio and also worked extensively outdoors, traveling throughout the region to document its diverse communities and landscapes. His photographs are often used in historical research and publications.