From high school dropout to world-renowned photographer who has shot images for the likes of Barbara Streisand, the Clintons and Tara Banks, Perth born and raised Russell James has lived an extraordinary life.

Growing up in Wilson, school was not his strong suit and he ended up leaving to work as a sheet metal worker, so how does he become one the world’s most famous photographers?

Mr James told Julie-anne Sprague persistence and resilience were key to his success.

“It’s how you handle rejection that is far more important than how you handle success,” said Mr James.

Press PLAY below to hear how Russell James became so successful