

ABOUT ME
SHANEL SMITH
PHOTOGRAPHY + ART DIRECTION
BASED IN NYC
Shanel Smith is the creative force behind Ms. Paparazzi Photography, specializing in product, branding lifestyle, and e-commerce photography that brings brands to life. With over a decade of experience, she has collaborated with high-end fashion brands and creative entrepreneurs, crafting compelling visuals that connect with audiences and drive engagement.
Her journey into photography began in childhood—capturing moments with disposable cameras and falling in love with the darkroom in high school at LaGuardia High School of Music & Art. She later earned an AAS in Commercial Photography and a Bachelor’s in Psychology, giving her a unique edge in understanding visual storytelling and consumer perception.
Known for her vibrant personality and keen artistic eye, Shanel is passionate about helping brands showcase their products in the best light, telling authentic stories through imagery, and pushing creative boundaries. Whether shooting sleek product photos or dynamic branding campaigns, she brings precision, creativity, and an intuitive understanding of what makes a brand stand out.
EDITORIALS
Vogue / Teen Vogue / Harper's Bazaar / Ebony / Elle /
Essence / Wall Street Journal / Coveteur / Sheen / Black Cruze.
CLIENTS
Burger King / 7Eleven / Coogi / Tier / Fe Noel / June 79 / Harlem's Fashion Row / Twitter
Pyer Moss / Duckie Confetti / Turkey Hill Ice Cream / Flawless by Gabrielle Union / Sephora / Cinematic Music Group
PRESS
Creators 100: Meet 10 of our Favorite Creatives in the Arts https://blavity.com/creators-100-meet-10-of-our-favorite-creatives-in-arts?category1=editorial-desk
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