Meet Jason Hambach

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jason Hambach.  

Hi Jason, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I was born in Canton, Ohio, and lived in the Canton/Massillon area through high school. My interests in those teen years – music, photography, movies – definitely had me leaning toward creative work, and I started to notice and appreciate cinematography around that time. Attending Ohio State is what brought me to Columbus and I was fortunate to find a full-time job at a media production company right after graduating. That’s where I really began to learn how film production works and found a place in the industry as a cinematographer. A little over 5 years ago, I decided to take a big leap and become a freelancer. 

I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
It hasn’t always been a smooth road. Starting out can be especially difficult. Internships are real work, but often unpaid – which is something that has to change if we hope to have creative career opportunities open to all. Early in the full-time job, hours could be long while pay could be insufficient. As a freelancer, there are times where work is slow, and income will drop, so getting used to and planning for financial fluctuations is rough. I find working a creative job to be really enjoyable and rewarding, but I can definitely find a way to be tough on myself and my work. Imposter syndrome sneaks in there occasionally as well. 

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about what you do?
I work as a director of photography, which means that I’m behind a camera on set, collaborating with a director and other crew members to light scenes, move cameras, and capture images that make us all proud. Scenes that feel like honest moments with some element of magic natural light are my favorite, and I often use vintage lenses for their softer character. The job also involves a lot of planning and problem solving, and sorting it all out can be really satisfying. 

I’m most proud that I get to work with a lot of good friends and that I honestly never dread getting up and going to a job. I’m additionally proud anytime I get to pass along the things I’ve learned to younger cinematographers. 

I hope what sets me apart is that I make collaborative work a positive experience, stay level-headed under pressure, and bring something to the images that is uniquely me. 

What do you think about luck?
I love this question. People often attribute success directly to hard work alone and that is not the full story. I wholly believe in hard work and that working hard can improve your odds of finding luck, but luck is one of life’s mysteries that we should acknowledge plays out differently for different people. 

I’ve been lucky in a lot of ways – first, I grew up in a stable home with loving parents. I’ve had good health. I’ve met generous people that have taught me and brought me on their adventures. Above it all, I have a wife and two daughters that I’m excited to spend life with. And I get to make a living doing creative work. I’m grateful for it all. 

Contact Info:

• Website: jasonhambach.com
• Instagram: @hambach

Image Credits
Greyson Mack
Todd Robles