Daniel - The Smith Visual (b. 1988, London) is a contemporary photographer specialising in abstract urban landscapes and street photography. Known for his highly stylized and idealized depictions of everyday life, Daniel captures fleeting moments with a unique cinematic quality, evoking a sense of escapism reminiscent of classic Hollywood fairytales. His work offers a romanticized view of the world, distilling perfect moments into single frames, all captured freehand without relying on digital alterations such as Photoshop or AI.

Whether working in colour or black and white, Daniel’s photography has a dream-like, almost painterly quality. His visual style is influenced by the minimalism of artists like Mark Rothko, whose work he admired in his youth, and by the evocative set designs of vintage films and stage productions. This blend of influences manifests in his use of soft, pastel tones contrasted with the sharp clarity of digital imagery, creating a harmonious balance between nostalgia and modernity. His work often blurs the lines between photography and painting, offering a fresh interpretation of both mediums.

Light plays a crucial role in Daniel’s compositions. His ability to accentuate natural light imbues his images with a serene, ethereal calm, while his rejection of artificial staging keeps his subjects grounded in reality. This organic approach reflects his commitment to authenticity, allowing each photograph to stand as a moment in time that’s both idealized and true to life.

While much of Daniel’s work has a whimsical, uplifting quality, some of his pieces explore darker, more complex themes such as mental health struggles and addiction. Despite these heavier undertones, Daniel maintains a consistent thread of optimism throughout his portfolio, offering the possibility of redemption and hope. His aim is to let viewers engage in a brief daydream, seeing life through a lens of beauty and possibility, even in the face of adversity.

By merging technical precision with a painter’s sensibility, Daniel Smith creates work that transcends the boundaries of traditional street photography, inviting viewers to see the world not just as it is, but as it could be—a place where fleeting moments are captured in their most perfect, almost magical form.

To contact Daniel about the possibility of commission work please email Sophie here.