Ali Smith is…
an internationally acclaimed photographer, author and public speaker whose vibrant, emotionally honest work was shaped by New York City’s underground music scene. Known for her ability to connect with people from all walks of life, she has photographed everyone from women in prison to King Charles.
Her editorial and commercial clients include The New York Times, The Guardian, The Observer, Der Spiegel, Art Basel, Bentley and Disney.
A storyteller at heart, Ali is passionate about women’s lives, gender equality and environmentalism. She is the author of three acclaimed books: Momma Love: How the Mother Half Lives, praised by Gloria Steinem; Laws of the Bandit Queens, featured by Oprah Winfrey; and The Ballad of Speedball Baby, her memoir about being the only woman in an influential 1990s New York punk band, which reached #1 on Amazon.
Ali has exhibited, lectured and taught internationally, including at the International Center of Photography and New York University. Her work with young women includes creating photography programmes for Girls for Gender Equity, founded by Tarana Burke, and Step Up Women’s Network. Across photography, writing and speaking, Ali uses storytelling to challenge perspectives, amplify underrepresented voices and create meaningful human connection.