“I have spent years studying the technique of photography in search of a means to make a Leica small-format 35mm camera achieve the technical clarity of a large-format camera… Though I marvel at the mastery of some large-format photographers, only the unobtrusiveness, speed, and agility of a 35mm camera can achieve the closeness and intimacy I require in my portraits.” – Rodney Smith.

Frequently found with his Leica M6, Rodney Smith (1947–2016) was a distinguished photographer renowned for his iconic black-and-white images that blend portraiture with landscape. Relying solely on film and light, his un-retouched, dream-like photographs are as remarkable for their artistry as they are for their physical beauty.

In the latest book Rodney Smith: A Leap of Faith, Getty Museum curator Paul Martineau’s critical essay weaves between Smith’s retrospective work and features an assessment of Smith’s technique by the Center for Creative Photography’s chief curator, Rebecca A. Senf.

We recently caught up with Rodney Smith’s widow, Leslie Smolan, to learn more about Rodney’s photographic legacy.

Are there any interesting insights into Rodney Smith’s background and career?

Rodney studied theology and got a Master of Divinity at Yale University while minoring in photography under Walker Evans. He started work as a photo essayist in the tradition of Euguene Smith, before turning to portraiture and eventually finding his niche and greatest success in fashion photography.  He was interested in literature, art, philosophy and deeper questions of humanity.

Why did you want to create and publish “Rodney Smith: A Leap of Faith”?

This is the first time there has been an art historian’s perspective on Rodney Smith’s work. After Rodney’s passing in 2016, J. Paul Getty Museum Curator Paul Martineau felt it was important to examine Smith’s work chronologically to understand his journey as a photographer and more importantly, as an artist. This is a story that has never been told before.

What main themes are explored in “Rodney Smith: A Leap of Faith”?

Former Vanity Fair Editor Graydon Carter perfectly articulates the inherent contradictions in Smith’s work – whimsical but solemn, composed but candid, still but full of movement, mysterious but revealing. Getty Curator Paul Martineau maps the artist’s creative trajectory—including his introduction to photography, early personal projects, teaching, and career in fashion—providing insight into Smith’s personal life and character; and Center for Creative Photography Chief Curator Rebecca Senf explains Rodney’s technical practice and his unwavering commitment to his craft. The book features some of Rodney’s most iconic images, as well as never-before-seen photographs that illustrate Smith’s creative process and his evolution as an artist.

Why did Rodney choose to shoot with Leica cameras?

Rodney preferred a 35mm camera with a 50mm lens for his early work. He wanted to be mobile and get close to his subjects. He also wanted to use the highest quality camera to produce the highest quality negative.

How does the design of the book complement Rodney’s photography?

Like Smith’s photographs, the design of the book is an understatement of simplicity and elegance. The images are exquisitely reproduced. The trim size makes it a welcome read. The photographs are choreographed as single pages, complimenting each other across spreads. The book is an ageless classic and beautiful object just like Smith’s photographs.

What is your personal favourite photograph or series of photographs in this book, and why?

Gary Descending Stairs, Parc de Sceaux, France, 1995. This photograph poses more questions than it answers, causing you to look at it again and again. Is it a woman? Is it a man? The photograph holds so much mystery.

What do you think Rodney’s favourite image in the book would be, and why? 

Young Man, Wadmalaw Island, South Carolina, 1977

Smith said of this image, “As soon as I really looked into his face, I saw all that I was looking for, a soul that far transcended his year, and graciousness and wisdom that usually only comes with age. Added to this, I saw one of the gifts of youth: his vulnerability.”  This photograph was shot early in Smith’s career when he was travelling with his 35mm Leica using a 50mm lens for the candid intimacy he could experience and convey.

Learn more about the new book here and see more of Rodney’s imagery on his website and Instagram.