Franck Hamel

Bio

Franck Hamel is a distinguished food and lifestyle photographer based in Rennes, France, whose journey into the world of photography has been both transformative and deeply enriching. Though his passion for photography simmered beneath the surface for years, it was his first experience in a darkroom—shooting and developing film—that ignited a profound love for the medium. This pivotal moment inspired him to pursue formal studies in the arts at Rennes University, while simultaneously honing his skills through self-directed exploration. Eager to embrace new challenges, Franck relocated to Romania, where he launched his career as a photojournalist with the Romanian press agency Mediafax and the French magazine "Regard." This vibrant yet demanding environment taught him to navigate tight deadlines, adapt to varying light conditions, and discover compelling perspectives—all while immersing himself in the dynamic atmosphere of post-communist Bucharest. Franck's journey continued to unfold in Vietnam, where he experienced an emotional awakening amidst a rich tapestry of culture and cuisine. It was here that he captured his first culinary photograph—a striking image of kumquats for East&West magazine—marking the beginning of his specialized focus on food photography. In 2009, he moved to Rabat, Morocco, where he served as a photographer for Vue sur Mer, a magazine dedicated to the sea and boating lifestyle. This experience further broadened his photographic vision, allowing him to explore new lighting techniques and compositional styles. After gathering a wealth of international experience, Franck returned to France in 2010, where he dedicated himself to the art of culinary photography. Drawing from his background in photojournalism, he developed a unique approach that emphasizes the beauty of natural light. For Franck, the essence of food photography lies in simplicity: he believes that the subject should shine on its own, with the photographer's role being to harmonize with the light and the ingredients. Franck Hamel’s work is a testament to his belief that food is more than sustenance; it is an art form that deserves to be celebrated through the lens of a passionate photographer.