We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Craig Smith. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Craig below.
Craig, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. What do you think Corporate America gets wrong in your industry? Any stories or anecdotes that illustrate why this matters?
One of the biggest things Corporate America gets wrong about photography is the assumption that the camera does all the work. Too often, businesses and individuals believe that high-quality images come down to just owning an expensive camera when, in reality, professional photography involves a deep understanding of lighting, composition, editing, and storytelling.
Many corporations underestimate the skill, time, and effort required to create impactful images that represent their brand effectively. They may expect quick turnaround times without realizing that post-processing—color correction, retouching, and enhancements—is just as crucial as the photoshoot itself. A great photo isn’t just about capturing a moment; it’s about crafting a visual narrative that aligns with a company’s identity and message.
Additionally, some businesses try to cut corners by relying on AI-generated images or stock photos instead of investing in custom photography. While these can be useful in some cases, they often lack authenticity and fail to create a genuine connection with their audience. A well-thought-out branding photoshoot provides original, high-quality content that makes a business stand out, builds trust, and drives engagement.
Ultimately, photography is an art and a science. It requires a trained eye, technical expertise, and an understanding of human emotion. When businesses recognize this and invest in skilled photographers, they gain images that don’t just look good—but also tell a story, evoke feeling, and create lasting impressions.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I’m Craig Smith, the creative force behind PhotosbyCraigSmith, where I specialize in capturing life’s most important moments through photography. My journey into this craft wasn’t just about picking up a camera—it was about finding a way to turn fleeting moments into timeless art. Photography, for me, has always been more than just images; it’s about storytelling, connection, and making people feel at ease in front of the lens.
My love for photography began as a way to preserve the beauty of everyday life. Over time, that passion evolved into a professional pursuit, leading me to focus on weddings, events, business branding, and family photography. I’ve always been drawn to the human experience—the unspoken emotions, the subtle interactions, the stories that unfold in the space between words. My work is about capturing those moments, ensuring they are never forgotten.
One of the biggest challenges many clients face is feeling comfortable in front of a camera. I understand that vulnerability, and I make it my mission to turn every session into an experience that feels natural and enjoyable. Whether I’m photographing a couple on their wedding day, documenting a family’s bond, or helping a business owner bring their brand to life through compelling imagery, my approach is always the same—authentic, personal, and deeply intentional.
What sets me apart is my ability to make people feel at ease. I believe that the best photographs come from real moments, from genuine expressions and unscripted interactions. My clients often tell me that by the end of our session, they don’t just feel like they’ve had their picture taken—they feel seen, valued, and even a little more confident. That’s what I strive for in every shoot.
The relationships I build through my work are what I’m most proud of. Seeing the joy on a couple’s face as they relive their wedding day through my images, or watching a business owner confidently showcase their brand with the portraits I’ve created, is incredibly fulfilling. Photography is not just about capturing a moment—it’s about preserving emotions, telling stories, and creating something that will be cherished for years to come.
Can you talk to us about how your side-hustle turned into something more.
I started my photography business as a side hustle in 2018 while working full-time as a project manager in the residential and commercial exterior design industry. At the time, photography was something I was passionate about, but I saw it more as a creative outlet than a full-time career.
Everything changed in early 2020 when I unexpectedly lost my father right before the pandemic hit. His passing forced me to take a hard look at my life—was I truly happy? Was I fulfilled? The answer wasn’t clear right away, but the question lingered.
Fast forward to August 2021, in the middle of the pandemic, and I finally had my answer. I was miserable. The stress and dissatisfaction were affecting me both professionally and personally, and I knew something had to change. That’s when I took the leap—despite not feeling fully prepared, despite the risks, I chose to bet on myself and pursue photography full-time.
The journey has been anything but easy. There have been struggles, moments of doubt, and times when I questioned everything. But through it all, the satisfaction of building something I love, of turning a passion into a career, has been unmatched. The wins—no matter how big or small—surpass any professional success I had before.
This journey has taught me resilience, faith in myself, and the power of pushing forward even when the path isn’t clear. And looking back, I wouldn’t change a thing.
What’s worked well for you in terms of a source for new clients?
The majority of my clients come from word-of-mouth referrals. A trusted recommendation carries significantly more weight than being discovered online. When a potential client reaches out through an inquiry form or direct message, there is often an initial barrier to overcome. However, referrals help establish trust from the start, making the connection much more seamless.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.photosbcs.com
- Instagram: @photosbycraigsmith
- Facebook: @photosbycraigsmith
