William Richard Hammel aka wrhammel is a professional time freezer (a photographer). He specializes in concert photography, but photographs anything and everything. He is also the founder & owner of The Reel Moment. Here are some questions we asked him!
1. At what age did you first pick up a camera?
“I first picked up a camera when I was 16”.
2. What was your first camera & lens and what is your current camera & lens?
“My very first camera was a Canon SL2 with the kit lens (18-55). My current camera is a Canon 5d Mark IV with a 70-200 for concerts. For portraits I prefer my Leica Q2”.
3. What advice do you have for someone who is just starting out in photography?
“Photography, just like everything else in life is like a ladder. You have to start where you can and don’t stop… Otherwise you won’t make it anywhere!”.
Mick Jagger photographed by wrhammel
4. What is the favorite image that you’ve made?
“Definitely this b&w shot of Mick Jagger. Mainly because of the situation I was in. Security was being power trippy and removing me after 1 song, for no reason :( This photo was taken as my camera was being taken from my hands by one of the guards”.
5. If you could thank two (or more) people right now who would it be and why?
“First would be my uncle who got me started in the industry and trusted me on the camera. Next would be my parents for the countless hours in the car driving me to shows or waiting outside of venues for me. And last but most importantly, God. For keeping me safe and blessing my abilities with the capturing of these moments”.
6. Who is the bucket list person/brand you’ve always wanted to photograph?
“I would say my bucket list person was Kanye West. Was able to photograph him recently!”.
7. What has been your most memorable moment on this journey?
“I’d say photographing DMX. It was a super last minute shoot - Box office has trouble with my pass but still managed to get in before his set ended. Took photos for a couple songs then shortly after heard he had passed away… Just goes to show ya that every opportunity should be pushed for!”.
8. If you could go back in time and change one thing what would it be?
“I don’t think I’d want to change anything. Everything good and bad that’s happened has made me who I am today and I wouldn’t take anything back!”.
9. What advice do you have for someone who gets stuck on this journey?
“Let’s face it, we all get stuck. It’s important to have a good group of family/friends around you to help you through and with things! Don’t ever do everything in your own strength, many hands make light work”.