Jessica Smith is a freelance photographer, specializing in documentary portraiture and place. Born and raised in Portland, Oregon, Smith’s relationship with photography began early on in her high school darkroom.

At 19 years old, she moved to New York to work in fashion. For several years, she worked as a model in the world’s largest markets, where she was exposed to industry-leading artists and techniques that would later inform her craft.

In 2017, she attended the University of Oregon’s School of Journalism and Communication. Applying her previous photography experience through a journalistic lens, Smith soon became a regular contributor to student and local publications, garnering a Hearst Award nomination, and a Charles Snowden Internship. In 2020, Smith graduated with honors from the University of Oregon with a BA in journalism and a minor in art. 

Outside of photography, Smith is an avid forager, wine connoisseur, and budding home chef. Learn more at photojsmith.com.