Local Talent / Shannon Hammond
Shannon Hammond is a travel and brand photographer seeking to capture the essence of her subject and tell a story about it. She wants her images to convey what makes a destination special or a product unique.
What is the best thing about working with other creatives?
The spectrum of creativity is so broad, and I sit very comfortably in the “Type A Creative” space, so it’s fun to collaborate with those who fit elsewhere on that spectrum. It is inspiring to be around people who work and see things differently than I do, and when you can find a way to complement each other’s strengths, that’s when the magic happens.
How do you prepare for your work days on set?
Advanced meetings with clients before the shoot are essential. Depending on the project, this can mean anything from a phone call to location scouting to a test shoot—whatever it is, it’s critical that you and the client are on the same page before you get on set. Being prepared technically (gear, etc.) should be a given; having a shared vision makes all the difference.
Image by Shannon Hammond, Burano, Venice
What makes a shoot day better?
A shared creative vision, good planning, and a fun attitude! One of the perks of this type of work is that even though it’s a job, it can and should be fun. The hours together on set can develop into some really nice friendships, something I’m particularly grateful for!
What is your biggest pet peeve on shoot days?
Being unprepared. That can take a lot of different forms, but if you and the client come into the day with a clear agenda as to what you want to achieve—and you’ve planned accordingly— it’s much easier to roll with the punches if something unexpected occurs.
How do you avoid burnout?
I recently got comfortable saying “no” and that has been a lifesaver for me. Not every project or every client is a good fit, and the more comfortable you get recognizing that, the less the chance of burnout. That’s not to say burnout won’t happen, but it’s more manageable if you know when to say when.
Image by Shannon Hammond for Hanna Creative Co., Newport, Rhode Island
How can your clients be more prepared for their shoot day?
Shot lists are key! Not only will they help organize the shoot day, but it will help identify product, prop, and model needs.. Relatedly, you may want to consider a dry run so that you can be more efficient on the day of the shoot, especially if you are paying for additional professionals (hair, makeup, models) to be on set and you need to maximize your time.
How do you get inspired?
Traveling and exploring are my go-to sources of inspiration; I always come home ready to create. I love browsing design books and watching films with a specific eye towards composition and light. And Instagram can still be an inspiring place if you are able to wade through all the noise.
What is your advice to creative business owners trying to build their brands?
I don’t know who said it first, but remember that failure is not the opposite of success. Stay true to yourself and your vision, ask for advice/help when you need it, and connect with other creatives—you’ll need friends along the way who can relate to what you are going through and who will support you as you do.
How much of your success would you consider luck, and how much would you consider hard work?
If you equate luck with good timing, then I think that definitely plays a part, but I truly believe hard work, persistence, and consistency are what pay off in the end.
Image by Shannon Hammond, Gustave Moreau Museum, Paris
Describe your ideal client or project.
One of my favorite things about my work is how diverse my clients are, but they all have two things in common: an appreciation for the impact of good imagery and a willingness to put in the work to achieve it. So as long as the project calls for beautiful photography and the client will put in the work with me to make it happen, sign me up!
What should a potential client consider when hiring a photographer for their project?
One important thing to consider is whether you intend this contract to be transactional or relational. Most professional photographers can complete a project on a technical level; if you are looking for a true partner in the creative process, a different investment of time and resources is required—an investment that hopefully will result in mutual success and a flourishing partnership.
What is one thing you can’t live without?
Can I pick three? Travel, my husband’s sense of humor, and my daughter’s hugs.
Favorite song or music genre on set or location?
My taste is pretty eclectic so I’m usually happy to let the client choose. Otherwise, it might feel like whiplash as we bounce from Broadway musicals to boy bands to Beyonce.
Beverage of choice during a shoot.
I always forget to eat and drink when I’m shooting!
Beverage of choice after a shoot.
A successful shoot calls for a celebratory cocktail. I love a French 75 or a negroni.
Favorite artist.
John Singer Sargent.
A place to unwind.
Cocktails in the library at The Vanderbilt Auberge in Newport.
A favorite hidden gem in Rhode Island.
The Redwood Library & Athenaeum in Newport. It’s on my dream shoot location list!
Favorite book for inspiration.
Humor is always a source of inspiration for me, so give me anything written by David Sedaris.
Favorite museum.
Don’t make me choose one! Locally, I love the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum because it instantly transports me to Europe and the light from the courtyard creates the most beautiful atmosphere in the galleries.
Favorite places to travel.
Italy and the UK will always have my heart because we have been lucky to call both places home.
Dog or Cat lover?
Dogs!