A photojournalist and fine art photographer, James Wiley's accomplishments include the ONPA 'National Photographer of the Year' award (Canada). In 1984, he was selected as one of the top 100 photojournalists in the World to contribute to the book 'A Day in the Life Of Canada' and in 1987 was invited to contribute to the book 'Share The Flame' (journey of the Olympic flame from Greece to Calgary). In 1988, James was chosen as one of only three photographers to produce the 'Official Book of the Olympic Games'.

His work has also appeared in 'The Best of Photojournalism', an annual publication, featuring the World's best photographs of the year and is included in the book 'The World's Greatest Black and White Photography', published in 2007.

His own book, 'Images of Cabbagetown', published in 1994, contrasted the lives of those living in one of Canada's most eclectic neighbourhoods.