Albert Joseph "Al" Smith, Sr. (1916-2008), was a photographer and prolific chronicler of life in Seattle's Central Area during the mid- to late-20th century. From a hobby begun as a preteen, Mr. Smith began his "weekend job" and photography business, On the Spot, in the 1940s, capturing life in the city’s Black community, the Central Area neighborhood, and the local jazz scene.

Al left his mark, shown here, on all the photos he sold. He had business cards and letterhead stationery, the latest camera and accessories, knowledge of Seattle streets, financial ledgers, and a home darkroom. He had what he needed to run a business, even if it was just a side job.