Brian Smith

Celebrity portrait photographer Brian Smith is celebrated for his achievements in the world of photography and beyond. He won a Pulitzer Prize at 25 and has had an illustrious career capturing the essences of celebrities, athletes, and executives. His work has appeared in prestigious publications such as Sports Illustrated, ESPN the Magazine, Time, Forbes, New York Times Magazine, Elle, and British GQ. Notably, his first magazine photograph was published in LIFE Magazine when Smith was a 20-year-old student at the University of Missouri, and he later won the Pulitzer Prize for Spot News Photography for his photographs of the Los Angeles Olympic Games.

Beyond his photography, Smith has demonstrated a keen acumen in business. After introducing the UGG® sheepskin boot brand in the U.S., he transitioned into a career as a business guru and motivational speaker. In his talks, Smith shares insights into building effective company cultures and the stages of a business lifecycle. His book, "Mr. UGG," discusses the philosophical truths that underpinned his perseverance and success with the UGG brand.

Smith's books on photography, such as "Art & Soul," "Secrets of Great Portrait Photography," and "Sony A7 Series: From Snapshots to Great Shots," further showcase his expertise and contributions to the field. His works have been exhibited at locations including the Library of Congress and the American Museum of Natural History. A recipient of numerous awards and a respected figure in the photography community, Smith continues to mentor and inspire through various platforms, targeting not only established business leaders but also budding entrepreneurs and college students.