In Memoriam: Photographer James Wood

Edwin Vargas, photographer

In memory of Jim Wood, a great photographer and teacher who shared his love for photography with so many young people. He worked for more than 25 years as the executive director of the School of Photography at the Academy of Art University. I was lucky to work with him, and I’ll never forget going to see him at his office at 740 Taylor Street in San Francisco. He’d get so excited, showing me book after book from his collection. He always pointed out the work of his student, Erik Almas, who he was especially proud of. The last time I spent with Jim was at the Academy of Art’s car museum. We were photographing a Ford GT together, and it was actually my birthday. I thought, “What a great way to spend part of my day, learning from him.” That was the last time I got to be with him, and I’ll always be grateful for it. Jim wasn’t just a talented photographer—he was a true mentor and friend. He gave so much to his students, and he’ll always be remembered in our hearts and in our photos. Rest in peace, Jim.

Christian Peacock, photographer

I knew of James Wood from his commercial work way back in the late 1970's and was always inspired by his cleaver eye and technique. When I was fortunate enough to meet him for an interview for a teaching position his attention was fully fixed on our meeting, which lasted longer than one would expect. Of course being a true photographer he shared his passion and enthusiasm for all things photographic, not once projecting dogma. To be present with the person and making them feel engaged was a wonderful gift he possessed. James offered me some wonderful bits of wisdom as how to inspire the students. Still to this day I will recall his words as they still hold true in everyday life.

"Let people to allow themselves………"

Margo Moritz, photographer

Jim was the first person I met when I toured the Academy of Art university in 2006. It was his honesty and integrity that drew me to go to school there. He was always such a supportive instructor and always willing to stop in the halls and give you his full attention. I remember how bold and honest he was and could count on him to tell it to me straight. Students need that kind of courageous guidance and feedback to move forward. 

Norman Maslov, Agent Internationale

I first met Jim Wood when he asked me to visit and guest host one of his portfolio classes. The class centered around building and showcasing a photographic style, so I brought in books from several photographers I represented to showcase how working commercial shooters presented themselves. The work of Michele Clement, David Allan Brandt, Deborah Jones & Sue Tallon was presented to the class, and as a result, several of the students went on to intern with them and in my office. 

The guest class visits became a once-a-semester event, and I would do portfolio reviews at the annual spring show. Jim asked me if I would teach the undergraduate portfolio class. The only stipulation I requested was to add a business side, including estimating and negotiating productions, licensing agreements, and promotion. I have always felt that art schools fail in this aspect, as business discussions is not sexy to an artist's mind compared to portrait, fashion, and still life classes or any hands-on production courses. Jim supported me in this slight change in direction, and we would meet up frequently, hanging out in his office, where he proudly showed off some of the other students' work in the school. He loved his students and loved promoting their work to everyone. 

When I moved to Seattle from San Francisco, I told Jim I was leaving the program, and he and Will Mosgrove, offered me a second portfolio class in the Graduate School. So, for four more years, I would fly in and out from Seattle to San Francisco every Tuesday and Wednesday, teaching two back-to-back classes at the Academy. 

After my tenure, Jim would reach out to me regularly, sharing the work of a handful of wonderful new photographers. This never ended.