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Eli Smith

@elicraigsmith

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It’s crazy to think where this whole thing started. My little brother was really the tipping point that got me into analog photography in the first place. What started as something I was just curious about turned into a journey that’s taken me way further than I ever expected.

Film has taught me to slow down, get out of my comfort zone, and actually pay attention to the little things. There’s something about having only a few frames on a roll that makes you look at the world differently. You start noticing the light, the people, the places, and the moments that might otherwise pass you by.

Along the way, this little hobby has taken me to some pretty rad places and introduced me to some even radder people. Friends I’ve met through photography, friends I’ve been able to connect with, and people I’ve been lucky enough to start this photo journey alongside. Some of my favorite memories these last two years have come from simply grabbing a camera, heading somewhere, and seeing where the day takes me.

I’ve also been lucky enough to learn from so many people, especially my father in law, who’s basically been my film sensei through this whole thing. From teaching me how to develop my own film, helping me understand composition, building my knowledge of film, and showing me the ropes with all kinds of cameras, he’s played a huge part in getting me to where I am today.

Two years in and I still feel like I’m just getting started. Still learning. Still missing shots. Still buying cameras I probably don’t need. Still chasing that one frame.

Mostly, I’m just grateful. Grateful for my little brother for being the spark, for my father in law and everyone else who’s taken the time to teach me, and for every friend, road trip, camera, roll of film, and random adventure that’s come from it.

(Super gnarly art by @alexifund

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Two years ago today I married my best friend @kaiauhlig 😍

Our wedding was an emotional, beautiful day with harsh lighting and lovely people. I’m so glad we did our wedding our way and that’s how we’re going to do life as well.

We’ve changed so much over the 4 years we’ve known each other and I’m so grateful to be on this journey with you.

Thank you darling for being my biggest cheer leader and supporter. Next stop nyc (like next summer)

I love you Kaia!

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summer 2025 you have all my love 🤍

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FRIENDS XD

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Just some macro shots from my cup of ice water.

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A very windy day down near Provo Marina. Gorgeous weather if there wasn’t so much wind! Flip through to see a few of the trail, Utah Lake, and a farm in beautiful fall color. Thanks to @elicraigsmith and Nicole for taking me!

#utah #utahvalley #provo #fallcolors #utahlake #sony #sonyalpha #a6700 #kalimar #28mm #kalimar28mm

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Feeling grateful for such a lovely life and the friends who came by to celebrate Kaia’s 22nd birthday! 🥳

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New camera alert 🚨 My first ever digital camera 😝

The last 5 months on digital

SUMMER PT.12

📸Sony A5000

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The most beautiful black bear! This little guy quietly snuck up on me and a friend while we were photographing eagles. He strolled along the water’s edge, scanning for fish, and after some patience, he snagged a salmon.

#bear #blackbear #wildlife #alaska #wildlifephotography #wildlifeonearth #alaska #wildlifealaska #salmon #fishing

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The Wedding of Brad and Kaia Simmons, August 30th, 2024. Springville, Utah, USA. 1-7 on 35mm Ilford HP5 Plus 400, 7-10 on 35mm Kodak T-Max P3200. with a Canon Rebel G. Developed at @allenscameraut

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Yes, Eli drove all the way to capitol reef for this one photo

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Denali vibes

Canon Wp
Kodak Film?

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