Born in Scotland and based in London, photographer Stuart Hamilton travels the world, shooting for many of the leading advertising agencies in Europe and the US. He's been behind the lens of some of the most successful international campaigns, winning accolades from D&AD, Kodak and being featured in Communication Arts Photography Annual for six successive years.
10.08.08
The Light of French Impressionists
If you have a degree, in what field is it? An honorary degree from the University of Life.
What was your strangest assignment? I can’t think of any assignment that started out strange, but I’ve certainly had some strange experiences while on assignments.
Which photographer would you like to meet? None, but I would have loved to have met some of the French Impressionists—Georges Seurat had such a wonderful appreciation of light.
What famous person would you most like to photograph? Three-time Formula 1 World Champion, Jackie Stewart. Apart from being a world class sportsman, he is a phenomenally successful businessman, networker and inspirational human being.
Aside from your camera and lighting, what item could you not work without? A first-rate team of people around me.
Is there anything you would not digitally retouch? The Mona Lisa.
From where do your best ideas originate? Ideas come all the time; the more I travel, the more amazed I am by different cultures, landscapes, colors, lives.
How do you overcome a creative block? Photography comes naturally to me. I can’t think of a time when I had creative block. But, I suppose if I ever did have it, I would take some time out and go somewhere cool and new with my wife.
Do you have creative pursuits other than photography? I enjoy looking at art and being in galleries and museums—however I don’t draw or paint myself.
What music are you listening to right now? Normally my assistant sorts out any music we are listening to, however, I was recently given a CD by the Red Hot Chilli Pipers (not Peppers). It’s what I would describe as bagpipes with attitude. I can’t say it would be everyone’s taste, but as a Scot, listening to the mixture of bagpipes and rock while driving through the early morning mist in Glencoe was a memorable experience.
What’s your approach to balancing work and life? Taking time out with my wife and family. Doing things with the kids. Making the most of the time we have together when I am not away working.
What’s your favorite quote? After a defeat in his fight to free Scotland from English rule, Robert the Bruce, King of Scotland, took brief refuge in a cave. As he waited there, he noticed a spider at the cave’s entrance. The spider fell after every attempt to spin a web; it continued to try and eventually succeeded. Robert the Bruce took inspiration from this and when he went on to rally his men for the next battle by telling them, “If at first you don’t succeed, try, try and try again.” He then led his men to victory against enormous odds.
Do you have any advice for people just entering the profession? Assist as many photographers as you can and get as much experience as possible. Believe in your personal style and the pictures you’re taking and stay true to that vision. Don’t be swayed by what’s currently popular.
What’s one thing you wish you knew when you started your career? Everything I know now.