James Klopko is a Canadian cinematographer driven by a passion for storytelling and a commitment to crafting a unique visual approach for every project. Whether working on a feature film, television series, or commercial campaign, he believes each story deserves its own distinct style and atmosphere.
His cinematography in A Fire in the Cold Season (2019) earned him a nomination for Best Cinematography at the 9th Canadian Screen Awards in 2021. Other notable film credits include Sleeping Giant (2015), which premiered at the Cannes Film Festival and won Best Canadian First Feature at TIFF, An Audience of Chairs (2018), and The Last Porno Show (2019). On the television side, James has worked on acclaimed series like Kim’s Convenience (2016), Essex County (2023) and Bet (2025) a Netflix series based off a Japanese Manga.
Never one to be confined to a single genre, James thrives on exploring different storytelling styles—from intimate dramas to bold genre films—always seeking new ways to elevate narratives through cinematography. His versatility extends beyond narrative work into commercial projects, where he has shot campaigns for brands such as Ontario Tourism, Pro-Line, Samsung, Budweiser, and the MS Society.
Regardless of the medium or genre, James approaches each project with a fresh perspective, ensuring that the visuals serve and enhance the story in the most compelling way possible.
Canadian Screen Awards
Best Photography, Drama Series for Essex County (TV Series CBC / iTV) [Nominee] 2024
Best Achievement in Cinematography for A Fire In The Cold Season (Feature Film) [Nominee] 2021
Best Photography, Comedy for Kim’s Convenience (TV Series CBC/Netflix) [Winner] 2021
Best Photography, Comedy for Kim’s Convenience (TV Series CBC/Netflix) [Nominee] 2022
Canadian Society of Cinematography Awards
Best Pilot Episode Cinematography for Essex County (TV Series CBC / iTV) [Nominee] 2024
Robert Brook Award for Documentary Cinematography for ‘Kaha:Wi : The Cycle of Life’ [Winner] 2014
Fritz Speiss Award for Commercial Cinematography for ‘Ontario Tourism ‘Where Am I?’ [Nominee] 2017
Best Comedy Series Cinematography for Kim’s Convenience (TV Series CBC/Netflix) [Nominee] 2021
James Klopko
james@jamesklopko.com
Canadian Representation:
Vanguarde Artists Management
Tina Horwitz & Jay Horwitz
Canada: 416-972-9542