This excellent video presents an engrossing journey through the life and career of Rodney Smith, a renowned fashion photographer with a remarkable story. Smith's journey into photography was shaped by a desire to distance himself from his upbringing in a fashion-centric family and a difficult relationship with his CEO father. Despite this, his career intriguingly circled back to the fashion industry, where he ultimately made his mark.
Coming to you from Tatiana Hopper, this insightful video takes a look at the life and career of Rodney Smith. Raised in Manhattan, Smith's initial path diverged from photography. He studied theology at Yale University, intertwining his theological studies with photography. This unique combination of interests led him to Jerusalem on a fellowship, where he produced his first book, "In the Land of Light." This early experience highlighted the importance of body language in photography and the camera's influence on subjects and their environment. This insight would become pivotal in Smith's approach to capturing images.
Smith's philosophy on photography was shaped by his preference for shooting on film and using available light. He preferred to work "like a painter," appreciating how light reveals the scene. This approach is evident in his work, where the interplay of light and subject creates a narrative depth. His tool of choice was a Leica M4, emphasizing the importance of simplicity and efficiency in his workflow.
Despite his initial resistance to the fashion world, Smith's career eventually embraced it. His elegant and efficient style made him a sought-after name in fashion photography from 1993 until his passing in 2016. Smith's fashion photography is characterized by its grace, simplicity, and a timeless quality that transcends specific eras, reminiscent of the surrealistic elements found in René Magritte's paintings.
The video also delves into Smith's later years, where he embraced color photography. This shift was motivated by technological advancements that allowed better control and rendering of color, leading to captivating assignments like Barbara Barry's campaign.
The narrative highlights how Smith's work is not just about capturing images but about creating memorable, lasting impressions. The video is a tribute to Smith's legacy, encouraging viewers to appreciate photography's power to connect and interact with the world, leaving a lasting impact on the viewer. Be sure to give it a watch above.
