James Daniel trained as a performer for 8 years before his first directed piece, a music video for Dorset based band 'Waiting For Earthquakes'. His background as a performer greatly influences his directing style - preferring to work closely with his actors while building trustful relationships with them, having collaborated with many on multiple projects.
He states that character-driven films have always interested him the most, believing the exploration of honest people in exceptional situations is a major reason why we enjoy watching films. Social realist director Greg Hall described him as being "very thoughtful to the art form of directing" and "having a talent for the craft".