I started doing this “Beautiful Buildings” picture gallery series with my own collection of Buffalo photos. It is a collection that easily numbers in the 10s of thousands of images dating as far back as the 1970s. Tapping into these pictures was an easy way to illustrate the beauty and diversity of Buffalo on a regular basis. But, even with this extensive resource at hand I was only gently scraping the surface of the rich architecture and lush landscapes of Western New York. Lately, I have begun featuring the work of others that I have stumbled on. There is a growing number of very talented photographers in the Buffalo area. More and more they are focusing their photographic talents on showing off Buffalo, giving me an even deeper well of images to work with.
Today’s gallery features the Work of Kim Smith. She gives her images a dreamy romantic feel, often capturing a familiar building from an unfamiliar angle, giving us a whole new appreciation for something we thought we knew so well. Kim makes her living with her photographic work. These images are a mix of her commercial work and stuff she shoots just for fun. Here is her story.
UPRISING: I am an interior designer turned architectural photographer. I studied Fine Art, architecture and graphic design at University of Buffalo, and concentrated on Interior Design at Buffalo State. I started out working in the architectural field, then became the in-house graphic designer and photographer for Candlelight Cabinetry. I was there for 10 years before I went out on my own. I specialize in interior & exterior architecture, and product photography.
I started Kim Smith Photo in 2014. I was a bit apprehensive getting into this arena. I remember from university that creatives can sometimes be a bit esoteric. However, my Buffalonian clients thus far have been devoid of arrogance. They are amiable and talented. I’m eternally grateful to them for giving this noob a chance. My portfolio is chock-full of their beautiful designs.
DELAYED LOVE: I was born and raised here in Buffalo, but I have to admit, I was one of those Western New Yorkers that couldn’t wait to leave. I had all the typical complaints; the weather, the gloom, the tough economy, etc. It was easy for this mindset to stick living in the outskirts of Amherst and Lockport. I had no idea how much the city of Buffalo had improved and come to life.
Then I heard Eddie Friel’s speech at a Design Block meeting at Manuel Barreto’s Furniture Atelier. He compared Buffalo’s renaissance to that of Glasgow. Both are old industrial towns that went through some downturns, but he stressed that the “bones” of our city are solid, especially with our world-class grid and radial road systems and notable architecture. So I’ve begun a personal project: To document Buffalo as an architectural museum with stunning photography that does our city justice.
Between experiencing the city itself and its inhabitants, I can see why there are so many passionate grassroots movements out there. My former bad attitude towards the Queen City is melting away with the snow and I’m seeing this town in a whole new light. It was the settlement of choice for my family since the 1800’s and it’s now the home of my choice, not obligation.
Now, I’m doing what I can as a photographer to throw a spotlight onto the treasures of Buffalo. Since I’ve begun, I’ve been blown away by people’s hospitality and willingness to cooperate, allowing me access to their buildings and spaces, and allowing me to feature their properties on my site and social media. I’ve really felt the “good neighbor” vibe. I feel like I am growing in tandem with my home town. I look forward to working with the architecture and design community even more so.
HIGHER GOALS: The other part of Eddie’s speech focused on some social conditions that need improvement. I’ve found the best way I can help with that is to focus on one mind and heart at a time. I volunteer at the Niagara County jail two days per week. Not surprisingly, it’s very challenging at times. I’m a bible educator but sometimes I feel more like a social worker and therapist. There are so many sad stories. But when I see genuine transformation of attitude and behavior, it’s extremely rewarding. I keep in touch with those that continue to progress and their growth inspires me. What I do certainly doesn’t change the world or even a community, but it can help change a life. I find that very satisfying. I thoroughly enjoy what I do for a living (photography) and what I do to live (volunteer).
On the photography side of things, don’t be surprised if I walk into your establishment one day soon and ask, “Hey. Could I photograph your building?”. If you happen to own something on the National Register of Historic Places, chances are you’re already on my hit list! Feel free to reach out.
Email kim@kimsmithphoto.com
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