San Francisco native Ryland Hormel’s passion for photography began just as his college soccer career was ending. Searching for a post-graduation hobby, he realized his love for nature and his desire for a lifestyle of freedom and creativity were priorities, and that photography could be the right path to both. His early experiments felt natural and authentic, and he was all in. Today, he describes his approach to shooting as very free, striving to remain in the moment and not let preconceptions get in the way. His goal is to create bright, vibrant images that bring positivity into a viewer's day.
After moving to Chicago, Ryland’s longing for his beloved ocean and mountains launched him on a quest to find nature in the Windy City. His search helped him discover what would become a favorite theme in his photography: a lively, fluid blend of urban and adventure imagery. He primarily shoots with a Sony a7RII, whose travel-friendly size works well with his on-the-road, adventurous lifestyle.
Instagram: @ryhormel
Ryland's work is featured in Trope Chicago, part of the Trope City Editions series, a collection of urban and architectural photography books of cities by today’s emerging photographers.
RYLAND HORMEL stumbled into photography after completing his final college soccer season and began looking for a new activity to devote his time. He then discovered the synergy between photography and exploring the outdoors. Ryland is always on the move, sleeping in the back of his truck while finding the most beautiful and remote places he can.
206 amazing Chicago images from 27 emerging photographers, reproduced on museum quality uncoated paper, hardbound.
Camera Clique: An immersive all-angles exploration of Chicago by Stephen Ostrowski
Happy Holidays from all of us at Trope HQ in Chicago. Wishing you all a safe and Happier New Year!
