ERIC J. SMITH
Through photography, video direction and design, Eric J. Smith has a knack for creating content that resonates. With work published, broadcast and shared by millions of people around the world, Eric builds brands while shining a light on the most pressing issues of our time. With a discerning eye and a powerful set of creative tools, Eric’s award winning storytelling evokes a sense of dynamism and timelessness. A former SVP of Content & Creative at the social good division of the CBS Corporation, Eric is now Principal of E Smith Images LLC and is available for projects and speaking engagements.
FEATURED WORK
VIDEO: Lexus “Beautify Earth Campaign: Adrian Wong“
Director: Eric J. Smith, Agency: Team One, Production Company: Givewith, Client: Lexus
Eric directed a series of digital shorts for the launch of the Lexus UX200. Targeting Gen Z urban dwellers, the auto company partnered with a nonprofit called Beautify Earth that supports local mural artists. The series features three artists who drive the UX200 across Los Angeles as they create their murals.
BRAND IDENTITY: FEATURED LOGO DESIGNS
For nearly three decades, Eric has designed visual identities for corporations, nonprofits and initiatives. With a BFA in graphic design from the Rhode Island School of Design, Eric began his career as a staff designer at top agencies in New York and Los Angeles and continues perfecting his craft to this day, helping organizations to identify their core values and expressing them through a unique brand identity.
PHOTO SERIES: Women for Women International, Rwanda
Women for Women International has developed a program that offers Rwandan women a constructive, dignified way to regain control of their lives. Through foundational training, women come to know and defend their rights and change the status quo. In the aftermath of the devastating 1994 Genocide, the challenge of creating a lasting peace depended greatly on the actions of women, who were the majority of survivors. Eric and team traveled to the Urugo Opportunity Center to document the healing and hard work.
VIDEO: The Climate Group “RE:100”
Director: Eric J. Smith, Client: The Climate Group, Agency: CBS EcoMedia
Eric and team traveled across the country to document the clean energy initiatives of Ikea and Hewlett Packard as part of the Climate Group's “RE:100” program that aims to have all Fortune 100 companies produce net zero energy by 2030. The video was shown at the United Nations Conference of the Parties (COP).
NEWS
“Conflict“ Los Angeles Center of Photography Members Exhibition 2024
Eric's aerial photograph of the massive Potash evaporation ponds in Moab, Utah was selected for inclusion in LACP's annual members exhibition. The show, entitled “Conflict,” is curated by Anne Massoni, Executive Director of the Houston Center of Photography. The exhibition is on display at LACP's gallery in downtown Los Angeles.
First Place “THRESHOLDS” EXHIBITION, Los Angeles Center of Photography 2024
Eric's photograph of the Griffith Observatory has been awarded First Place in the exhibition “Thresholds 2024: Photography and Architecture.” The exhibition is curated by Crista Dix, Executive Director of the Griffin Museum of Photography. The exhibition was held at the Helms Bakery Design Center in Culver City, California.