Paul Hampartsoumian’s Top 3 Photographs – By Paige Michel
On Tuesday 22nd September 2020, we had the pleasure of meeting Celebrity Photographer – Paul Hampartsoumian, for a Q&A. Paul first fired his Canon in 1988 when studying GCSE photography at Richmond Upon Thames College. He has been a freelance photographer since 1994 with a variety of experience; shooting events, portraits, video stills, gigs, location and at studios. 1995, saw his first published image in the UK’s number 1 magazine, Hip-Hop Connection. A year later, he shot his first front cover of newly signed artist, Foxy Brown, going on to become the magazines principle photographer.
His clients include some of the biggest organisations in the Media Industry i.e. Universal Music, Island Records, Virgin, Puma, The Royal Television Society, Global Radio, MasterCard, Action for Children, Music Week magazine and so many more! Paul’s work has appeared in every national newspaper. However, Paul still feels most at home when working with Hip-Hop Royalty. So, I knew I had to ask him a Hip-Hop related question during the Q &A!
I asked: “What are your Top 3 Photographs you’ve taken in the Hip-Hop scene and why?”
3. BUSTA RHYMES - ROYAL GARDEN HOTEL, LONDON:
At number 3, is a picture Paul shot of Busta Rhymes in 1997 at the Royal Garden Hotel in Kensington. This was during Notting Hill Carnival Weekend. Here, Paul also took a group shot of Busta Rhymes, Jay Z and Dame Dash. But his favourite shot was the one of Busta Rhymes alone. Paul described Busta Rhymes having mad liveliness with his long locs all up in the air. Paul told Busta “This is where Princess Diana lives”, so Busta was rattling the gates shouting “BRING OUT THE PRINCESS!” Shortly after, the police came and said “You can’t do that here sir”, so they both left, after getting that golden shot. - This definitely was an exciting, spontaneous, risk-taking shoot for Paul with one of his favourite Hip-Hop artists. Paul really knows how to give us a good story time - his passionate energy is infectious, keeping us engaged!
2. BUSTA RHYMES – STUDIO, NEW YORK:
At number 2, is another shot of Busta Rhymes, but this time in a studio in New York. Paul was booked to shoot for the Burn campaign, an energy drink (the same manufacturer as Monster energy drink). Paul had worked with Busta before, so was used to the fluid environment, going with the flow. Paul described the Hip-Hop scene as being unpredictable, full of creative people who often change their mind and nothing runs on time. On the morning of the shoot, the journalist who was supposed to do the interview with Busta, did not turn up. So, Paul was asked to do the interview! Paul knew a lot of information about Busta, but did not know him on a personal level. Paul had to make up the questions there and then without any real preparation. – Paul emphasises that last minute anomalies provide opportunity for you to prove yourself. So do the job well, so you are remembered for the right reason and can get called back for future gigs.
1. JAY Z, NAS & BEYONCE – ROYAL ALBERT HALL, LONDON:
At number 1, is a group shot of Jay Z, Nas and Beyonce that Paul took. Jay Z was headlining at the Royal Albert Hall, London. Paul was excited because this is one of his favourite Hip-Hop artists and this venue was an unusual place to see a Hip-Hop act. Paul decided to call the press officer to see if he could get photo access. Paul was surprised to learn that Jay wanted a personal photographer to shoot him. So, Paul said “YES!” to this electrifying opportunity. Paul was the only photographer in the building and was given all access. Paul said as a photographer, it is important to wear all black to be invisible, because focus should be on the artist. Jay’s publicist asked Paul if he wanted to see Jay’s dressing room and so he did. Paul knew that Nas was in the building to squash the public beef he had with Jay – to show peace, them coming together. In celebration of this big moment, Jay, Nas and Jay’s management were popping champagne, Beyonce with her video camera, smiles all around - Paul took an amazing shot! – Unfortunately for us, Paul was not permitted to publish this photo. However, Paul describes this experience as a “dream moment” where he got a spectacular shot. Paul has intentions to write a book, and hopes to approach Jay Z, Nas and Beyonce to ask them if he can use his favourite shot in his book…So maybe we’ll get to see the top shot after all!
