Michael Proctor Smith

I only met Mike once, about a year ago, because I was new to New Orleans, and Tulane, and he and Karen and John received me in their house. (my uncle Joe is Mike's brother.) It was lovely to meet them, and to see several of Mike's photos on the wall. Back at home in Nashville, my mom and I have "Catahoula Cur Louisiana state dog", but I didn't know it was Mike's. I just wish I could have known him better!

I'd known Mike for twenty years and his long, debilitating illness was a tragedy that has now ended for him. His indelible images of the New Orleans he loved and the people, places and events he documented through his photographs live on as a legacy to his vision of life and the living of it. R.I.P., my friend.

I knew Michael over 20 years ago and I was proud to say I knew him. His photography was a gift that he shared with us all. Although our paths grew apart I thought of him often when I saw an image that someone creative should capture. But Michael would have always seen it first.

New Orleans has lost one who was able to capture our culture and joie de vivre through his lens. Mike has inspired me, an amateur photographer, with his ability to capture New Orleans culture skillfully and was willing to share it with others. I pursue photography as a hobby and often think of him when I am at the Jazz Fest, a second-line, or when viewing Mardi Gras indians. I had the pleasure of meeting him in 2004 when he had his photographs on display at the Jazz Fest. Much to my...

My friend and mentor, having been the original trailblazer of the photographic trail that I follow, can now dance among the galaxies.

He and his exrordinary work will never be forgotten.

20 yrs ago when I began coming to the JazzFest, I was honored to get to know Michael Smith thru mutual friends. At first I was awed by the amazing number of moving images Michael had taken, but I was quickly more intrigued by Michael himself: a true ambassador of NOLA's unique culture to the world. In that capacity I often interviewed Michael about NOLA music and culture on NPR Baltimore radio. These shows were always very well-received and well-remembered by our radio listeners.
Later...

Peace for Michael and a great loss for New Orleans.

If one picture is worth a thousand words, Michael P. Smith has left a legacy of encyclopedic proportions for the world to enjoy. Deepest sympathy to Karen and the family.

Remembering your mentorship and dedication... thanks for all the memories in the streets!