Today we’d like to introduce you to Garrett Smith
Hi Garrett, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I’m originally from Houston, and I started photography in high school through VSCO, a photo editing and social media app. After getting featured in the app multiple times, I purchased a Canon DSLR and developed my skills through wedding photography during college.
After graduation from University of Arkansas and studying journalism and PR, I joined an agency in Houston focusing on food and beverage brand strategy. Though I’d always loved food, I hadn’t considered combining it with photography. As the agency’s need for food and hospitality photography grew, I took on more projects and discovered my passion for it. I later accepted the photographer position at Giant Noise, where I now work full time. I am grateful for the opportunity to pursue this career and combine my passions and interests into a career. I’m lucky to be in Austin where I can constantly discover new restaurants and explore the city’s diverse dining scene.
I love that Giant Noise allows me to have cross-team integration to deliver cohesive creative solutions – from initial strategy and brand development through digital campaigns and public relations. While my camera might be my primary tool, my work touches every aspect of our clients’ stories, helping bring their visions to life across all channels.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The journey hasn’t been smooth at all. Photography is beautiful chaos – incredible yet messy. I’ve faced countless moments of self-doubt about my abilities and work. During my first lead shoot at the agency, we had to shut down mid-session for the lunch rush. This meant dismantling our entire setup – lights, props, everything – and I was convinced I’d miss crucial shots.
But these moments taught
me something vital: I’m part of the service industry, just from a different angle. My role is to serve the restaurants, making their food look as magnificent on camera as it does when served to guests. I’ve shared some of my best memories in restaurants and bars, and I feel a deep responsibility to capture that magic through my lens.
These restaurant teams pour years of their lives into thin profit margins and long hours, all to share their creative vision through food and service. So when they need to pause a shoot for their guests? You adapt. You think on your feet. That’s just part of the dance when shooting in restaurants, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
As Giant Noise’s photographer, I specialize in food, beverage and hospitality photography, though it’s more than just a specialty – it’s my passion. The energy of a restaurant kitchen, the dedication of chefs, the whole ecosystem of hospitality never fails to inspire me.
Among my proudest collaborations is Home Slice Pizza, where I create digital content that showcases their unwavering commitment to quality. Full disclosure: their Italian sandwich is my all-time favorite, which makes the job even better. At Red Farm Austin, I’ve captured the mesmerizing behind-the-scenes action, especially the art of dumpling-making. Swim Club’s vibrant food program perfectly matches my signature style of flashy, colorful hard lighting.
My approach has been shaped by years of wedding photography, where I learned to spot the unexpected moments that tell the real story. Some of my best shots weren’t on any shot list – they were split-second opportunities I noticed and captured. My background taught me to see what others might miss, helping me create truly unique work.
But what truly sets me apart is my deep respect for the hospitality industry. Having spent so much time in kitchens and dining rooms, I’ve developed a reverence for the craft that influences every shoot.
No two days look alike for me. One morning I might be photographing a new restaurant concept and by afternoon I’m capturing a real estate development or festival. This constant variety demands adaptability, which I’ve grown to love. Whether I’m working with a James Beard-nominated chef or a small business owner, each client brings unique challenges and creative opportunities, and I thrive on tailoring my approach to match their vision while maintaining my signature style.
Can you share something surprising about yourself?
Though I’m admittedly food-obsessed, my work extends far beyond the culinary world. At Giant Noise, I photograph everything from real estate to CPG brands to retail to festivals and special events. Just last week, I shot Plazamericas, a Houston shopping mall. The variety of assignments that cross my desk each week keeps me energized – it’s one of the many reasons I thrive in the agency environment. While food may be my first love, I find joy in capturing all sorts of stories through my lens.
We’re always excited to explore new creative partnerships at Giant Noise and bring fresh visions to life. Whether you’re looking to refresh your visual identity or launch something entirely new, we’d love to be in touch. If you’re interested, feel free to reach out to learn more about how we can work together and I always love meeting someone new.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.garrettsmithcreative.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/garrjsphoto/ and https://www.instagram.com/giantnoise/
- Other: https://giantnoise.com/
Image Credits
Garrett Smith Photography/Giant Noise Partners
