We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Emily J. Smith a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Emily J., really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?
Finding Purpose Through Creativity, Connection, and Advocacy I wear many hats—photographer, director, and advocate—but at the heart of everything I do is the belief that storytelling has the power to encourage perspective. Through my photography, I like to capture moments that feel real—whether it’s a raw, emotional portrait or a fleeting, unscripted scene. I want people to see themselves in a way they may not have before—whether that’s through happiness, beauty, strength, or vulnerability.
What excites me most about my work is the intersection of creativity and impact. Photography isn’t just about images; it’s about emotions, memories, and the stories we tell ourselves. In addition to my photography, I’m also highly involved in leadership and advocacy, in the nonprofit space. Growing up surrounded by unique challenges, I learned early on how important it is for everyone to feel understood. That belief guides everything I do—creating work that gives people a sense of belonging and recognition—especially those who often go unheard. Whether it’s through my nonprofit work or a single photo session, my goal is the same: to create something meaningful that leaves a lasting impression.
As for what’s next, I’m expanding my creative work into new spaces. I’m currently developing a nonprofit focused on supporting people with disabilities, a project that stems from my personal experience growing up with special needs siblings. I’m also exploring The Mediator, a media initiative aimed at fostering difficult conversations in a way that feels constructive, not divisive. And on a lighter note, my recent viral moment on TikTok reminded me that humor is a powerful connector—so I’m embracing more fun, engaging content that blends my creative work with real, relatable moments.
At the end of the day, my work is about perspective—helping people see themselves, their stories, and the world around them in a new way.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
Strategist who thrives on storytelling through visuals. My work blends professionalism with a relaxed, authentic feel—shooting moments that speak for themselves without the need for words. Beyond photography, I am the Chief of Staff at Michigan Creative, a marketing agency where I help businesses grow through creative solutions, and I serve as a Board Director for the Focus on Love Foundation, which provides emotional coaching through photography.
One of the most exciting aspects of my work is the ability to connect with people on a deep level—whether through a single image that speaks volumes or by helping businesses and organizations tell their stories in impactful ways. I believe art and creativity should foster conversations, bring people together, and challenge perspectives, which is why I am developing The Mediator—a space that will be designed to facilitate meaningful dialogue on difficult topics.
On the photography side, I own JustEm Creative, where I create visual narratives that are fun, beautiful, and real. My recent viral TikTok moment (featuring an adventurous Great Dane and a stolen peanut butter jar) has inspired me to blend humor with my photography content, making my work even more engaging and relatable.
As for what’s new, I am in the process of launching a nonprofit to support individuals with disabilities, a cause close to my heart. I’m also working on a book, No Augusta, which explores my personal journey and the experiences that shaped me.
What do you do when you feel overwhelmed? Any advice or strategies?
Overwhelm is a signal, not a stop sign. It usually means you need to pause, adjust, and simplify. The key is not pushing harder but stepping back and moving forward in small, manageable steps.
Contact Info:
- Website: justemcreative.com
- Instagram: JustEmCreative
- Facebook: JustEm Creative
- Linkedin: Emily Smith
Image Credits
Children Taken a photo of me: Sydney Hummel. Baby Mom, Dad example of my work. Emily J Smith
