O'FALLON, IL, June 10, 2025 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Jose Luis Smith has been selected for inclusion in Marquis Who's Who. As in all Marquis Who's Who biographical volumes, individuals profiled are selected on the basis of current reference value. Factors such as position, noteworthy accomplishments, visibility, and prominence in a field are all taken into account during the selection process.

Following his graduation from O'Fallon Township High School in O'Fallon, Illinois, Mr. Luis embarked on a distinguished 13-year career with the United States Army. It was during this period that his childhood passion for photography was reignited. A pivotal moment occurred during a visit to the mall with his father, where a photography sales kiosk captured his attention, leading to the purchase of a Ricoh 35mm camera. This acquisition marked the true beginning of his photographic explorations.

While stationed in Germany, Mr. Luis experienced his first professional success when he sold three of his photographs – serene images of ducks on the water – to a fellow soldier for his barracks room. This early transaction not only provided encouragement but also served as the initial spark for his burgeoning professional photography career.

A seasoned photography and event management professional, Mr. Luis has been the director and photographer for The Way of Fashion, Via Moda since 2022. His purpose in establishing the charity fashion event was to provide a creative way for those who have experienced trauma to express themselves. This includes Mr. Luis who was adopted and suffered abuse as well as others such as designers, models and team members. Partnering with the non-profit Free Arts for Abused Children of Arizona, the money raised sustains the non-profit and also allows Mr. Luis to help support the orphanage in Brazil. In this role he leads projects, manages overall events and connects with clients, including fashion designers, models, photographers and event venues. His expertise in photography and events has been instrumental in his success, allowing him to create impactful and memorable experiences within the fashion industry.

Prior to his current position, Mr. Luis was the entertainment director for Seattle Fashion Week for three years. He was pivotal in organizing events showcasing emerging talents and established designers during his tenure. His ability to navigate the complexities of event management while maintaining a creative vision was evident in the successful execution of these high-profile events.

Mr. Luis's educational background includes an associate degree from Los Angeles County University in 2000. He also completed electronics and computer technology coursework at DeVry University and business management at the University of Maryland. These academic pursuits have provided him with a strong foundation in technical skills and business acumen, which have been crucial in his career achievements.

In addition to his professional endeavors, Mr. Luis is actively involved in civic-minded organizations. He volunteers with Free Arts, and participated in the Seattle Seahawks players' individual fundraisers, and sponsors local charities and events from Seattle, Los Angeles and Phoenix AZ. These activities reflect his commitment to giving back to the community and supporting causes that align with his values.

Throughout his journey, Mr. Luis attributes his success to the support of those around him, including creative friends, a mentor photographers who began with him in Washington, adopted parents who have been unwaveringly supportive and family members in Brazil who encourage him despite their physical limitations. This network of support has been integral to fostering his creativity and driving him toward new goals and achievements.

Mr. Luis's personal life is enriched by his love for hiking and outdoor activities. Born in Rio dos Bois, he cherishes his connection to nature and often finds inspiration in the natural world. His future aspirations include opening a help center for children in Brazil that utilizes nature to provide a peaceful environment away from urban chaos. He also aims to be featured in major magazines like Vogue and Elle, organize another fashion show in Brazil, open a studio, travel more extensively, work on a documentary and create a black-and-white photography book focusing on men's mental health.

About Marquis Who's Who®:
Since 1899, when A. N. Marquis printed the First Edition of Who's Who in America®, Marquis Who's Who® has chronicled the lives of the most accomplished individuals and innovators from every significant field of endeavor, including politics, business, medicine, law, education, art, religion and entertainment. Who's Who in America® remains an essential biographical source for thousands of researchers, journalists, librarians and executive search firms around the world. The suite of Marquis® publications can be viewed at the official Marquis Who's Who® website, www.marquiswhoswho.com.

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