Today we’d like to introduce you to Mason Smith.
Hi Mason, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
I grew up in Lenoir, North Carolina, the son of a roofer and a sociologist. My father was from Lancaster, South Carolina, and much of my life has been split between those two places. I grew up around blue-collar men, and I am deeply proud of being from the Appalachian Mountains and the Southern United States. I’m a college student at Appalachian State University, where I’m studying history. I plan to be a lawyer and professor eventually. While that may sound like a bland career path, it’s a steady part of my life. Most of where I spend my time is in creative pursuits. I write poems, play various instruments, sing, and take photographs. My father passed away this past March, and his death was incredibly impactful on me. Being the working man he was, he always taught my brother and me to work as hard as possible and not let anything keep us from doing what we needed. I am pursuing my dreams of being a photographer, poet, and musician. No matter my successes or failures with these endeavors, I won’t stop doing them for anything.
It wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been relatively smooth so far?
No. A lack of money to invest in artistic projects never makes them go smoothly, but I approach that issue as a call to creativity with limited resources. My father’s passing made things very difficult for me and put a lot more responsibility on my shoulders, but I just tried my best to continue forward with my work, as I knew he would want me to. Other time commitments (school, family, etc.) can make creative projects challenging, but they also can provide so much creative material to work with. That’s just a matter of balance and planning.
Thanks for sharing that. So, you could tell us a bit more about your work.
While I make poetry and music, photography is the most prevalent in my creative life. I love to take photos more than just about anything. It would be my distinctive style if I’m known for anything within photography. Most of my shots are intentionally underexposed and grainy. This quality adds depth and mystery to an image that allows the viewer to immerse themselves in it. I’m proud of my distinctive style, which sets me apart from most (especially on Instagram). I love taking photos of something as simple as a door and adding intrigue.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
Martin Church and Dr. Adrian Rice at Appalachian State University. Martin showed me how much magic one can get from the camera, and Dr. Rice made poetry come alive.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.masonlsmith.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/masonlsmithphotography/
Image Credits
Mason L. Smith
