Matthew Jordan Smith: The Power of Personal Projects, Persistence, and Print

Some surprising ways personal projects can change your life.

Podcast: Download (Duration: 46:06 — 21.1MB)

On this week’s episode of TWiP, I’m thrilled to welcome my longtime friend Matthew Jordan Smith — iconic celebrity photographer and the creative mind behind Aretha Cool. We dig deep into the magic of personal projects, how AI is reshaping the value of authenticity, and why printing your work might just be the ultimate creative flex in today’s digital chaos.

Major Takeaways

Personal projects often lead to life-changing opportunities — but they must come from the heart.
Authentic photography is becoming more precious in the age of AI and endless digital manipulation.
Print isn’t dead — it’s a secret weapon for standing out in a sea of screens.
Building community and sharing your work regularly is critical for growth.
Success comes from doing the work you love, not chasing trends or likes.

About Matthew Jordan Smith

Matthew Jordan Smith is a celebrated photographer based in Tokyo, with a career that spans Tokyo, New York City, and Los Angeles. His lens has captured some of the world's most iconic faces — Oprah Winfrey, Angelina Jolie, Angela Bassett, Samuel L. Jackson, Zendaya, and many more. Brands like Shiseido, Revlon, Pantene, Coca-Cola, Intel, and HBO have entrusted him to bring their visual stories to life.

Beyond his commercial success, Matthew pours his heart into personal projects, publishing powerful books like Sepia Dreams, Lost & Found, and Future American President. His latest work, Aretha Cool — an intimate tribute to Aretha Franklin — is earning acclaim worldwide.

Recognized with honors such as the Vision Award and the George Eastman Power of Image Award, Matthew is also a proud Nikon Ambassador and is represented by LVA Represents in New York.