Carl L Smith lll aka Blaksmif – Based out of New York City, Known as Mr Grindking, A man with many hats in the entertainment biz such as a Booking Agent, Artist Manager, A&R record exec and now he is currently known as a celebrity photographer. Carl became passionate about photography in late 2000’s and decided to refine his craft hands-on as a apprenticed to veteran celebrity photographer Ronnie Wright. Carl has also been inspired and / or mentored me over the years by veteran photographers such as Ernie Paniccioli, Joe Conzo, Derrick Williams, Erskine Issacs, Kenya Smith, Louis Mendes, Walik Goshorn and the late great Gordon Parks to name a few.
Carl specializes in the entertainment business, covering live shows, shooting celebrities and exclusive social events such as BET Awards, Hot 97’s Summer Jam, Jay-Z Tidal event, BET’s Black Girls Rock, P. Diddy Bad Boy 20th year Anniversary, Adam Torres Concerts, Ice-T’s Art of Rap Festival, Circle of Sisters Expo name a few. Carl also worked at many Weddings receptions, private family functions and party events throughout the United States.