Jerimiah Smith

b. 1985

I grew up interested in photography. I love the contact with people I get through investigating with my camera – I’m interested in both what seems obvious in situations and what is subtly translated and even what is happening off frame, I hope my photographs function, not only as photographs but as a way of introducing the person and place photographed to a larger audience. I typically like to explore using both digital and analog photography, but also use the subjects voice in written form, audio recordings and video vignettes to further navigate and map their identity. I consider my process as a collaboration between me and the persons I photograph – mostly I’m interested in vulnerability, trust and awareness. Most of my photographic subjects are individuals on the fringes of society, or individuals who got left behind or ran over completely.


I make lasting relationship with my subjects beyond making their photograph. Sometimes months weeks or years are spent with a subject before making their picture. Instead of seizing the moment, I hope to build moments and narratives that are as rich as their inner and outer lives. If you build trust over time, people will reveal themselves to you in a way that you might not achieve if you simply show up to take a photograph. I’ve found that there ends up being a simplicity, truth and singularity to the relationship and the resulting images. I hope to reveal all of my subjects with pathos and dignity, but also form an immediate connection for the viewer with subjects that might give them hope and normalize perspectives.

Email. JerimiahStephenSmith@gmail.com