About me

Landscape Photographer

Dan Smith

Originally hailing from the charming town of Sandhurst in Berkshire, I left school in 1996 and started an apprenticeship as a vehicle technician. My apprenticeship opened the door to a fascinating realm where I would restore and repair an array of vintage cars, including Lagonda’s, Bentley’s, Jaguar’s, and Austin Healey’s to name a few, with a particularly prized beauty being a stunning 1903 Cadillac. After honing my skills and gaining invaluable experience, I transitioned to a mainstream role at Honda in Ascot, where I completed my apprenticeship. To date, I have now spent 28 years in the automotive industry, in which time I have worked at various main dealerships and run my own mobile vehicle service and repair business.

Despite my commitment to cars, photography lingered in my mind like an old friend, and as mobile phones began to sport increasingly sophisticated cameras, access to this artistic medium became much easier than ever before. In 2018, after relocating to the breathtaking landscapes of North Devon with my family, I took the plunge and bought my very first DSLR to document our adventures amidst the stunning surroundings. Little did I know that photography would not just be a hobby, but it would completely grip my heart and imagination. I eagerly explored various genres, ranging from Macro to Street photography, Landscape to Astro Photography, but it was landscape photography that truly captivated me, which is understandable as we live in such a beautiful area of the UK, although, I do very much still enjoy the odd night time astro shoot. This creative practice has reshaped the very way I perceive the world around me, revealing hidden beauty that often goes unnoticed in the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Since embarking on this exhilarating photography journey, I’ve proudly received a shortlisting in the esteemed UK Landscape Photographer of the Year competition in 2022, had two of my images featured on the BBC News website on two separate occasions, and had one of my images chosen to appear in the Southwest Coast Path Charity calendar in 2025.

While these accolades are undeniably rewarding, they are not my primary motivation. Photography offers a much needed creative outlet, essential headspace, and refreshing relief from the chaos of modern life, ultimately providing vital support for my mental health and well-being. I look forward to continuing my journey around the Southwest, creating stunning images of the landscapes, and I hope to explore the rest of the UK and beyond in the not too distant future.