In 1995 James began doing graphic design professionally. Even though he specialized in textile printing, James would always dabble in photography. In February of 2011, at the urging of his son Maddact Hinkle, James began producing short videos for the automaddact YouTube channel. What started out as a simple hobby for him and his son quickly spiraled into a full-time job. In 2013 he formed the Cinemaddact, LLC  production company and named it after his son who inspired him to begin producing video. In the short time between 2011 and 2013 James has produced everything from sports highlight reels to television commercials, and from sizzle reels to television pilots. James in now a board member of the IFCKC along with his wife, Stacy Hinkle. The IFCKC was founded in 1993. James works hard to help make and promote independent film in Kansas City.