On The Grind with James B. Hammond

In The Hot Box

🎬 On The Grind with James B. Hammond 🎥

Welcome to another episode of On the Grind with Doc Reo! Today, we're thrilled to feature James B. Hammond, a top-notch Director of Photography and IATSE Local 600 Camera Operator. 🌟 With an impressive portfolio working alongside icons like Lady Gaga, Shaquille O'Neal, and Gal Gadot, James's journey is a masterclass in dedication and talent. 🎞️✨

From Skateboards to Hollywood 🎬🏄‍♂️

James grew up in Austin, Texas, dreaming of becoming a professional skateboarder. 🛹 But life had other plans, leading him to discover his passion behind the camera at Sam Houston State College. 🎓

"When I was a kid, I really wanted to be a pro skateboarder." - James Hammond

First Steps in the Industry 🎥📈

Starting as a PA, James's big break came when he rented his Sony X1 camera, sparking his interest in equipment investment and leading to the creation of his rental company, Clay Collective. 📸🔧

Balancing Career and Fatherhood 👨‍👧‍👦🎥

Managing a demanding career while being a present father is no small feat. James shares how he juggles both roles.

Memorable Projects and Challenges 📺🔥

From shooting NCIS promos for Paramount to working on "Little Fires Everywhere" with Reese Witherspoon, James’s career is filled with highlights. One of the most challenging experiences was operating a gimbal on "9-1-1: Lone Star" amidst explosions and dust. 💥🎬

Advice for Aspiring Filmmakers 🎬💡

James emphasizes keeping it simple and focusing on the basics. He recounts a lesson from a promo shoot about adapting to weather conditions and delivering quality work.

Future Endeavors 🚀🎥

James is working on exciting projects like a new documentary on fentanyl for A&E and a romantic short film with a Black Mirror twist. He stays optimistic and ready for the next challenge. 📅🎞️

🎬👋 James B. Hammond’s journey from a small-town skateboarder to a celebrated Hollywood DP is an inspiring tale of hard work, passion, and resilience. 🌟

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