After over a decade telling stories as a photographer, writer, curator, and teaching artist, I’m seeking professional opportunities to deepen my existing publishing expertise, from the inside out.
I’ve spent years creating and sharing my own work—from photographic series and reflective essays to my first photography book, Compositions of Black Joy: A Visual Chronicle of the Philadelphia Juneteenth Festival (2015-2022). Along the way, I learned how critical it is to have a working understanding of the unseen parts of publishing: distribution channels, metadata, marketing campaigns, and community engagement, all of which make the difference between a book staying hidden or finding its readers.
I bring decades of experience in content creation, event production, and community-building — and I'm seeking paid opportunities where I can leverage these strengths while developing expertise in the business side of publishing.
Distribution & operations: understanding how books travel through wholesalers, bookstores, and libraries
Marketing & publicity: learning how effective campaigns are developed, launched, and maintained
Sales strategy: discovering what motivates buyers and readers to purchase
My long-term vision is to launch Restless Lightchaser Press, an independent imprint that showcases stories at the intersection of joy, resilience, and cultural memory. I plan to begin with my own titles before expanding to include other authors whose work aligns with this vision. To build a successful publishing venture, I first need hands-on, real-world publishing experience.
Thanks for reading — and feel free to reach out if you’d like to collaborate or talk more.
Tieshka Smith is a Philadelphia-based photographer, author, and teaching artist whose work explores voice, memory, and visibility through image and story. A former nonprofit project manager, she has spent the last decade creating community-rooted projects that challenge assumptions and celebrate overlooked moments. Her debut book, *Compositions of Black Joy: A Visual Chronicle of the Philadelphia Juneteenth Festival (2015-2022)*, was published in 2025.
Email [email protected]
Text 267-362-9535