Written by Eric L. Irby
As a plus-size content creator, one of the many challenges I’ve faced is finding photographers who not only want to shoot me, but who will shoot me well. Historically, bigger bodies haven’t always been welcomed in front of the camera with the same eagerness or care. Sometimes it’s a lack of experience, sometimes it’s bias — either way, for plus-size creators who want to elevate their presence or simply celebrate themselves, the barriers add up. Beyond cost, we carry concerns that thinner creators rarely have to think about: how lighting hits us, how fabric stretches or falls, how our bodies are posed, even whether we’ll be judged for sweating under hot studio lights. These are details that all creators manage, but they’re scrutinized so much more when you’re plus-size.
That’s why in a sea of photographers who are often only comfortable shooting slim bodies, Joshua Smith stands out. Based in Atlanta by way of Jacksonville, Joshua has built a name for himself as both a photographer and creative director who approaches his work with intentionality, storytelling, and representation at the forefront. His lens captures more than images — it captures culture. From high-fashion aspirations like Louis Vuitton to his work with plus-size models such as friend to the brand, Kuma, Joshua’s artistry reminds us that every body deserves to be seen, celebrated, and beautifully framed.
Please introduce yourself (name, location, what you do).
My name is Joshua Smith. I’m currently located in Atlanta, Georgia, but originally from Jacksonville, Florida. I am a professional photographer and creative director.
How did you get started in photography? What drew you to it as a medium?
I received my first camera around 2015. It started off as a hobby, but then turned into a lifetime passion. I’ve always been in the arts, whether it was poetry, dancing, fashion, cooking, or singing. Photography became another art form that allowed me to express different ways of viewing the world and how I can impact that, in my own artistic way.
You’re one of the brand’s favorite photographers because you understand how to shoot all bodies; is this intentional, second nature or learned?
I would say honestly it is a mix of both intentional and second nature. Being both a Black man and a gay man, navigating the creative industry, it is important that everyone sees themselves in my work, in some form. Representation matters.
Can you share your experience shooting Kuma and how that shoot came about?
Kuma is very motivated, passionate, and creative. We stumbled across each other on social media and he loved how I shot people in pictures. So we planned an idea and the rest was magic.
Also your overall photography holds a narrative in the image, what inspires you?
I consider myself a storyteller, with my gifts. Photography is simply a medium for me to tell a story. I like to look at my work as just that.
Can you share your perspective on working with plus size men?
I believe working with plus men has helped push the boundary for me in certain areas. It’s allowed me to gain more clients as well. A lot of times, in this industry, especially when it comes to modeling, a lot of plus sized men don’t feel like they can model for things, or even see themselves in a lot of spaces. Part of that problem is photographers not being inclusive of plus size men in the industry. I don’t want to be a part of that problem, so it is important that I keep that in mind for everyone.
You don’t have to give us everything, but what is your creative process?
When I’m working with a client, I like to ask what the client is looking for and how I can add my personal touch to that. A lot of times, clients need help coming up with ideas, and that allows me to utilize my creative direction skill, and from there, we create magic.
What is your dream brand to shoot? Dream celeb/public figure person?
My dream brand shoot would be Louis Vuitton. My dream celebrity to work with is tricky. I have 5: Issa Rae, Zendaya, Tyler the Creator, Beyoncé, and Josh Levi.
As a young artist who is already making waves, what advice would you give to other artists?
As cliché as it may sound, always stay true to yourself and your craft. Also, continue to put work out, even if it’s just a passion project, because you never know who is watching, and what will catapult you.
What are your creative aspirations this year?
I would love to work with bigger names in the industry and spearhead creative photoshoot projects with them. Also, traveling a lot more with photography.
Where can the people find you?
Instagram: @forjvsh
TikTok: @itsforjvsh
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