MICHAEL “ZAKI” SMITH

Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, Michael "Zaki" Smith specializes in cinematography and still photography. After developing an interest in motion picture work, Zaki, a former barber, turned his lifelong passion into a career. He has established a reputation as a cinematographer, working on independent projects and freelancing for various production companies. His work is defined by his composition, use of color, camera movement, and versatility with light. Currently, he shoots all genres of projects ranging from narrative features and shorts to documentaries and commercials. 

In addition to his film work, Zaki is an activist and policy expert who works to dismantle the barriers in employment, education, and housing for communities impacted by the criminal justice system in Americans from fully reintegrating into society. Since 2020, he has captured over 50 hours of footage documenting the progress of New York State's Clean Slate bill, for which he earned the Joe and Clara Tsai Foundation's Social Justice Fund Black Voices for Black Justice Grant.