Darren Smith
Photographer and author Darren Smith presents Mayflies, a visual chronicle of identity, self-expression, and belonging. What began in Amsterdam’s nightlife grew into a portrait project spanning three continents and 34 events. From Burning Man to Día de los Muertos, over 1,000 people were photographed in temporary spaces where freedom and creativity flourish. Now published by Lecturis as a 208-page photo book, Mayflies celebrates originality and identity, while exploring the power of photography to preserve fleeting human connection. Darren shares the stories behind the images and reflects.
Met in dit programma Darren Smith Portrait & advertising photographerAbout the photographer
Darren Smith (1984, Virginia, USA) is a portrait and advertising photographer based in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. Known for his bold, iconic, and colour-saturated aesthetic, Smith’s work moves fluidly between fine art and commercial photography.
Central to his practice are themes of self-expression, identity, and belonging. Through vivid studio portraits, he captures individuals in moments of transformation—often those who embrace their identities with clarity and courage. His photographs are not merely representations, but visual statements that transcend traditional portraiture.
Raised in a small town in the Appalachian Mountains, where personal expression often came with limits, Smith developed a deep admiration for those who defy conventions. This perspective continues to shape his photographic voice.
Combining fine art with participatory storytelling, Smith creates work that is both intimate and visually arresting. His photography has been widely recognised across editorial, commercial, and art contexts, with clients and collaborators spanning Europe and the United States.
His debut monograph, Mayflies, was published by Lecturis in 2024 and is distributed internationally by IDEA Books.
- © Darren Smith, Wasteland Rituals 2022
- © Darren Smith
