bsmitty’s nineteenth project "Midway" challenges us to reflect on the changing landscape of retail, the consequences of rapid technological advancements, and the haunting beauty that can be found in these fading times. The series prompts us to consider the significance of these spaces and the lives that once revolved around them.

images © Brian Jay Smith

pdf and images for personal viewing.

Any form of sharing is prohibited.

If you found yourself with this pdf without purchasing, please visit bsmitty.com/theartlife to support the project.

bsmitty’s eighteenth photo project “Fair Mood” is the third of the fair series, and it continues his signature theme of isolation while also incorporating the experience of capturing groups of people in the moment at a fair. By weaving together these two themes—group experiences at the fair and a sense of isolation—bsmitty has created a thought-provoking body of work that encourages viewers to reflect on the complexity of human emotions and connections in shared spaces.

images © Brian Jay Smith

pdf and images for personal viewing.

Any form of sharing is prohibited.

If you found yourself with this pdf without purchasing, please visit bsmitty.com/theartlife to support the project.

bsmitty’s seventeenth project "Maybe A Chicken Maybe Some Chips" is an intriguing photo project undertaken by bsmitty, who creatively utilized the time during his graveyard shift as a floor sweeper to collect the discarded grocery lists left behind by shoppers. As mundane as sweeping floors may seem, Bsmitty saw hidden artistic potential in the neglected debris.

images © Brian Jay Smith

pdf and images for personal viewing.

Any form of sharing is prohibited.

If you found yourself with this pdf without purchasing, please visit bsmitty.com/theartlife to support the project.

bsmitty’s sixteenth project titled "Princess Ledges," is a collection of photographs captured in an incredibly hidden location nestled in Brunswick, Ohio. bsmitty beautifully captures the unique essence of the woods, evoking a strong desire within viewers to be present in that environment.

"Princess Ledges" takes viewers on a visual journey through the secluded woods, revealing the beauty of nature. bsmitty's photographs showcase the interplay of light and shadow, the vibrant colors of foliage, and the intricate details of the ledges.

bsmitty showcases his ability to transport viewers to a place of pure natural beauty. The project evokes a sense of appreciation for the hidden treasures that exist within our own communities.

images © Brian Jay Smith

pdf and images for personal viewing.

Any form of sharing is prohibited.

If you found yourself with this pdf without purchasing, please visit bsmitty.com/theartlife to support the project.

bsmitty’s fifteenth project titled "The Picture Party," is the introduction to his exclusive digital release available to project supporters on Patreon. This unique collection of photographs showcases bsmitty's distinctive style while incorporating hidden imagery that establishes connections between the photographs, leaving the interpretation open to the imagination of the viewer.

The project's digital format allows for a larger scale dynamic and interactive experience. Viewers are encouraged to explore the photographs, searching for the hidden imagery and making connections between different elements within the collection. This participatory approach through Patreon adds an extra layer of engagement and invites viewers to become active participants in unraveling the visual mysteries.

"The Picture Party" celebrates the power of photography to ignite the imagination and provoke contemplation. It challenges conventional viewing practices by incorporating hidden elements that prompt viewers to delve deeper into the imagery, inviting personal interpretations and narratives to emerge.

By offering this exclusively to project supporters, they have the opportunity to engage with the photographs on a deeper level, accessing additional content and insights from the artist himself, and enriching the overall experience for the viewer.

images © Brian Jay Smith

pdf and images for personal viewing.

Any form of sharing is prohibited.

If you found yourself with this pdf without purchasing, please visit bsmitty.com/theartlife to support the project.

bsmitty’s fourteenth project titled "Bath," was inspired by his interest in true crime documentaries. bsmitty found himself photographing in Bath, Ohio, a town known for its connection to a significant historical incident.

images © Brian Jay Smith

pdf and images for personal viewing.

Any form of sharing is prohibited.

If you found yourself with this pdf without purchasing, please visit bsmitty.com/theartlife to support the project.

bsmitty’s thirteenth project, "A Fair Ride," is a captivating sequel to his initial fair-themed project. In this series of photographs, bsmitty once again explores the atmosphere of a fair but adds his signature touch of isolation, creating a thought-provoking difference between the crowds and a sense of individual seclusion.

By incorporating isolation into the series, bsmitty invites viewers to reflect on their own experiences at public events and the inherent paradox of feeling both connected and detached within a crowd.

Overall, "A Fair Ride" is a testament to bsmitty's artistic vision and his ability to capture the multifaceted nature of human experiences. The project encourages viewers to explore the delicate balance between togetherness and isolation, sparking introspection and offering a nuanced perspective on the dynamics of social connection in public spaces.

images © Brian Jay Smith

pdf and images for personal viewing.

Any form of sharing is prohibited.

If you found yourself with this pdf without purchasing, please visit bsmitty.com/theartlife to support the project.

bsmitty’s twelfth project titled "River of Fish Tumors," are photographs along a section of the Black River that was designated as an Area of Concern (AOC) in 1987 due to its history of industrial, agricultural, and urban use, which resulted in various ecological challenges such as poor water quality, loss of biodiversity, habitat degradation, and sedimentation.

images © Brian Jay Smith

pdf and images for personal viewing.

Any form of sharing is prohibited.

If you found yourself with this pdf without purchasing, please visit bsmitty.com/theartlife to support the project.

bsmitty’s eleventh project titled "A Fair Return," captured the reopening of a fair to the public after the seclusion and closures due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The photographs in "A Fair Return" emanate a sense of warmth, capturing the essence of people coming together once again. Despite the palpable joy, a subtle undercurrent of isolation is present in the project. bsmitty's keen observation captures the lingering impact of the pandemic.

"A Fair Return" serves as a poignant reflection of the unique period in history during which it was created. It encapsulates both the resilience of humanity and the ongoing effects of the pandemic. bsmitty's photographs invite viewers to contemplate the complex emotions that accompany a return to public spaces after a prolonged period of seclusion.

Through "A Fair Return," bsmitty celebrates the triumph of the human spirit and invites viewers to reflect on the significance of public spaces and communal experiences. The project represents a poignant chapter in our shared history.

images © Brian Jay Smith

pdf and images for personal viewing.

Any form of sharing is prohibited.

If you found yourself with this pdf without purchasing, please visit bsmitty.com/theartlife to support the project.

bsmitty’s tenth project titled "The Garden That Grew," emerged during the onset of the coronavirus pandemic. During this challenging time, bsmitty found solace and inspiration in Schoepfle Garden, located in Birmingham, Ohio. This project beautifully captures the unique connection between individuals and the natural beauty of the garden, showcasing the power of art during times of uncertainty.

Despite the need for physical distance, bsmitty boldly approached strangers in Schoepfle Garden, forging connections and creating portraits.

By photographing in this serene and tranquil setting, bsmitty intertwines the innate human desire for connection and the healing power of nature. The photographs serve as a reminder that even in challenging times, beauty can be found.

images © Brian Jay Smith

pdf and images for personal viewing.

Any form of sharing is prohibited.

If you found yourself with this pdf without purchasing, please visit bsmitty.com/theartlife to support the project.

bsmitty’s ninth photo project titled "IRL," showcases his unrivaled photographic style and presented a unique collection of imagery from the streets. This project features a series of photographs that capture pairs or extreme similarities, offering a thought-provoking exploration of the world around us.

In "IRL," bsmitty's keen eye for detail and his ability to find intriguing visual connections shine through. The project's unique style and presentation encourage viewers to engage actively with the images. bsmitty's use of pairs or extreme similarities prompts us to consider the deeper meanings behind the visual associations and invites us to explore the interplay between the ordinary and the extraordinary.

"IRL" exemplifies bsmitty's ability to transform the mundane into the extraordinary, the project challenges us to look beyond the surface and discover the beauty and connections that exist all around us.

images © Brian Jay Smith

pdf and images for personal viewing.

Any form of sharing is prohibited.

If you found yourself with this pdf without purchasing, please visit bsmitty.com/theartlife to support the project.

bsmitty’s eighth photo project titled "Now," transports viewers to different moments in time, the project features a diverse range of images, each carefully curated to evoke a sense of nostalgia and familiarity. One such photograph captures a old Dairy Queen from a small town, reminiscent of a bygone era.

The iconic bsmitty photograph in "Now" is titled "Start ur year with a lap dance." This image, sparks curiosity, humor, and a touch of intrigue.

The nostalgic vibes present in "Now" serve as a reminder of the enduring power of photography to evoke emotions and transcend time. bsmitty's project invites viewers to reflect on their own personal experiences, memories, and connections to the images. Through his artistic vision, he taps into the universal human experience of longing and sentimentality.

Overall, "Now" represents a return to bsmitty's signature project style.

images © Brian Jay Smith

pdf and images for personal viewing.

Any form of sharing is prohibited.

If you found yourself with this pdf without purchasing, please visit bsmitty.com/theartlife to support the project.

bsmitty’s seventh photo project titled "This is for You," captured the monumental celebration that followed the Cleveland Cavaliers' historic victory in the 2016 NBA Finals against the Golden State Warriors. The Cavaliers, led by LeBron James, overcame a 1-3 deficit to win the championship, sparking immense joy and pride in the city of Cleveland. BSmitty found himself amidst the electric atmosphere of the victory parade, where over a million fans gathered to honor their beloved team. bsmitty sought to document the collective euphoria and sense of unity that unfolded during this momentous event.

The photographs within "This is for You" conveyed the scale and intensity of the celebration, depicting the sheer magnitude of the crowd and the unbridled enthusiasm of the fans. The photographs highlighted the shared bond between the team and its fans, encapsulating the euphoria that radiated throughout the parade.

In addition to capturing the crowd's energy, bsmitty focused on the players, immortalizing their triumphant expressions, and showcasing their deep connection with the fans. The photographs became a testament to the resilience and determination of the Cavaliers, their journey to victory, and the profound impact they had on the city of Cleveland.

"This is for You" captured a celebration like no other, paying homage to the unity, passion, and undying support of the fans. bsmitty's project served as a visual tribute to the power of sports to unite communities, inspire hope, and create lasting memories. Through his photographs, he immortalized the euphoria of that historic victory parade, allowing viewers to relive the unparalleled joy and sense of accomplishment that filled the streets of Cleveland.

images © Brian Jay Smith

pdf and images for personal viewing.

Any form of sharing is prohibited.

If you found yourself with this pdf without purchasing, please visit bsmitty.com/theartlife to support the project.

bsmitty’s sixth photo project titled "Alive," a unique hybrid project that seamlessly merged portraits with interviews. This project featured individuals photographed against a white backdrop, creating a sense of seclusion and allowing their essence to take center stage. Each subject's story unfolded through the accompanying interview, providing insights into their upbringing and aspirations for the future.

The portraits in "Alive" were carefully crafted to isolate the subject, emphasizing their individuality and evoking a sense of artistic solitude. Against the stark white backdrop, bsmitty's captured their raw emotions, expressions, and vulnerabilities, creating a powerful visual narrative. The simplicity of the setting allowed the viewers to focus on the subject's unique characteristics and personal journeys.

Accompanying each portrait was an interview that delved into the subject's life story. bsmitty sought to provide a deeper understanding of each person's upbringing, experiences, and dreams for the future. Through the interviews, viewers gained insights into the subjects' formative years, their challenges and triumphs, and the paths they hoped to tread in the years to come.

The combination of the portraits and interviews in "Alive" created a multi-dimensional experience for the viewers. The photographs conveyed a sense of vulnerability and introspection, while the interviews added depth and context, allowing the subjects' voices to be heard. bsmitty demonstrated his ability to merge portraiture and storytelling, creating a powerful fusion of art and human experience.

images © Brian Jay Smith

pdf and images for personal viewing.

Any form of sharing is prohibited.

If you found yourself with this pdf without purchasing, please visit bsmitty.com/theartlife to support the project.

bsmitty’s fifth photo project titled "NYC," a captivating exploration of the streets of New York City. This project marked BSmitty's first trip to the vibrant metropolis, and he set out to capture the essence of Manhattan through street photography. From the iconic Central Park to the bustling Wall Street, bsmitty documented the energy, diversity, and enigmatic vibes that define the city.

The photographs in "NYC" were characterized by bsmitty's unique composition and his talent for infusing each image with a sense of mystery. He skillfully framed his subjects against the backdrop of the cityscape, capturing the juxtaposition of bustling crowds and serene moments, drawing viewers into the frame and inviting them to unravel the stories hidden within.

bsmitty captured candid moments of people strolling through the park, engaging in leisurely activities, or finding solace amidst the urban chaos. The photographs portrayed the park as a microcosm of the city, where diverse lives intersected against a backdrop of natural beauty.

As bsmitty ventured beyond Central Park, he explored the streets of Manhattan, from the neighborhoods to the financial hub of Wall Street. His photographs encapsulated the diverse tapestry of New York City's inhabitants—people from all walks of life, each with their own stories and aspirations. bsmitty's compositions revealed the ebb and flow of daily life, showcasing the city's fast-paced rhythm and the serendipitous moments that unfolded on its streets.

The enigmatic vibes present in bsmitty's "NYC" project were a testament to his keen observation and ability to capture the unseen narratives in everyday life. Through his lens, he conveyed a sense of intrigue and invited viewers to contemplate the stories behind each captured moment.

"NYC" showcased bsmitty's growth as a photographer, as he embraced the challenges and energy of a new environment. His unique composition and ability to evoke mystery allowed him to create a visual narrative that celebrated the complexity and allure of New York City.

images © Brian Jay Smith

pdf and images for personal viewing.

Any form of sharing is prohibited.

If you found yourself with this pdf without purchasing, please visit bsmitty.com/theartlife to support the project.

bsmitty’s fourth photo project titled "Fancy That," this project encompassed a diverse range of images, capturing both candid street encounters and meticulously crafted portraits.

"Fancy That" began with bsmitty's fearless approach to engaging with strangers on the streets. With genuine curiosity and a friendly demeanor, he initiated conversations, delving into the lives of those he encountered.

The street photographs in "Fancy That" revealed the serendipitous beauty of spontaneous encounters. bsmitty's lens immortalized fleeting moments, showcasing the authentic expressions and gestures of people from diverse backgrounds. Each image told a unique story, capturing the essence of human connection and the richness of the urban environment.

In contrast to the candid street encounters, "Fancy That" also featured meticulously crafted and mysterious portraits. bsmitty's artistic vision shone through these images, creating an atmosphere of intrigue and allure, inviting viewers to contemplate the inner worlds of his subjects.

The collection featured a diverse range of individuals and groups, each with their own captivating story. bsmitty's ability to capture the essence of his subjects allowed the photographs to transcend the visual realm.

The photographs in "Fancy That" became a testament to bsmitty's unique style and his talent for capturing the human spirit. Through his masterful use of composition, he infused the images with a mysterious quality that left viewers with a lingering sense of intrigue and fascination.

Overall, "Fancy That" showcased BSmitty's ability to merge street photography with his enigmatic style. The project represented a fusion of candid moments and carefully constructed images, resulting in a collection that invited viewers to reflect on the complexity and beauty of the human experience. Through his lens, bsmitty demonstrated his artistic prowess and continued to push the boundaries of storytelling through photography.

images © Brian Jay Smith

pdf and images for personal viewing.

Any form of sharing is prohibited.

If you found yourself with this pdf without purchasing, please visit bsmitty.com/theartlife to support the project.

bsmitty’s third photo project titled "Amish Country," a captivating exploration of the daily life and landscapes within a small Ohio town inhabited by the Amish community.

The photographs captured the essence of Amish life. bsmitty's photographic style is a perfect match to show the community's commitment to self-sustainability, hard work, and the preservation of age-old traditions. The images conveyed a true sense of timelessness.

bsmitty's compositions are masterfully framed, exuding a sense of presence, inviting viewers to appreciate the quiet beauty of this distinct way of life.

Through "Amish Country," bsmitty aimed to shed light on the Amish culture, allowing viewers to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for a way of life that differs from mainstream society. The project served as a bridge between worlds.

images © Brian Jay Smith

pdf and images for personal viewing.

Any form of sharing is prohibited.

If you found yourself with this pdf without purchasing, please visit bsmitty.com/theartlife to support the project.

bsmitty’s second photo project titled "Eleven Eleven," a deeply personal series that captured the 24 hours leading up to a pivotal moment in his life—the time he appeared at the hospital in Medina to discover the gender of his first child. The photographs documented a typical day in Ohio, immersing viewers in the emotions and experiences that filled this momentous occasion.

The project commenced with BSmitty's morning routine, beginning with the simple act of getting breakfast. Through his lens, he captured the familiar sights and sounds of an Ohio morning, evoking a sense of comfort and anticipation. The photographs displayed the subtleties of daily life.

As the day progressed, bsmitty met up with his friend Kyle in Oberlin, a small college town brimming with character. Together, they explored the streets, engaging in conversation and capturing moments. bsmitty's photographs immortalized the laughter, the shared experiences, and the profound sense of support that underscored this special day.

The photographs also documented the journey, depicting the passing landscapes and moments within the car as bsmitty embarked on the ride to Medina hospital, the location where he would soon discover the gender of his unborn child. bsmitty's lens encapsulated the sense of anticipation—creating a visual narrative that echoed the significance of the upcoming revelation.

"Eleven Eleven" became a poignant exploration of the profound changes and emotions that accompany impending parenthood. bsmitty's authentic approach to photography allowed viewers to experience the range of feelings he encountered throughout the day.

Through "Eleven Eleven," bsmitty demonstrated his ability to weave personal narratives into his photography, creating a collection that sparked a new way of working. The project became a testament to the power of capturing the ordinary moments that hold extraordinary meaning, showcasing bsmitty's talent for storytelling through his lens.

images © Brian Jay Smith

pdf and images for personal viewing.

Any form of sharing is prohibited.

If you found yourself with this pdf without purchasing, please visit bsmitty.com/theartlife to support the project.