Darren Smith is an Amsterdam-based portrait photographer whose work explores self-expression, identity, and belonging. Known for his interactive "pop-up studio" approach, he captures transformative moments of individuality and creativity, blending fine art with participatory storytelling.

Growing up in a small town where self-expression often felt constrained, Smith developed a deep appreciation for those who boldly embrace their identities. This perspective fuels his work, which celebrates the courage and creativity of individuals who transform themselves and their surroundings, offering a vivid exploration of freedom and belonging.

“I call this body of work Mayflies, after the tiny insects that, for one brief but consequential moment, they hatch, meet, mate, and then they're gone. They embrace a lifetime within a single day. It seems an appropriate metaphor for the sort of people I was looking for."

"My work centres around the meeting point of fantasy and reality, and explores creativity, transformation, and belonging. I'm utterly fascinated by radical self-expression and its unique beauty. The sheer diversity and individual creativity that exists in the world is incredible to me. As society further blurs the lines of what's true/real and what's artificial, I want to share things that are fantastically real.”

- Darren Smith