These United States explores the nuances of American identity in the 21st century. The photographs do not attempt to define America or resolve its contradictions. Instead, they ask us to look more closely at the people, places, traditions, and everyday experiences that shape the country. I have come to believe that our differences do not have to separate us. They can also give us an opportunity to understand one another and recognize the humanity we share. Photography by Steven G. Smith

The Long Goodbye: The Caregiver’s Journey is an award-winning documentary photo story and short film following Leandra Manos as she cares full-time for her 86-year-old father, George Manos, who is living in the later stages of dementia. Created over two years, the project documents how caregiving reshaped Leandra’s life, leaving her without a full-time job as she navigated the emotional, physical, and financial demands of caring for her father during the isolation and uncertainty of COVID.

The work offers an intimate portrait of love, duty, exhaustion, and resilience within one family’s struggle, while also pointing to a growing global crisis in eldercare. As dementia affects tens of millions of people worldwide, A Long Goodbye asks viewers to consider the human cost of caregiving and the urgent need for greater research, support, and long-term care protections for aging populations.

The project went on to receive recognition from Pictures of the Year International, The Best of Photojournalism, and the National Press Photographers Association, as well as cinematography honors from festivals and competitions, including TIFF and the Los Angeles Cinematography Awards. Following a successful film festival run, the documentary also gained distribution.

Under the Dark Sky: Life in the Thames River Basin is a full-color documentary photo essay book that explores contemporary rural life in eastern Connecticut and southern Massachusetts through the landscapes and people of the Thames River basin. Published by Wesleyan University Press in 2018, the book portrays a region known as the Quiet Corner or Last Green Valley, one of the last large stretches of green space and dark night sky between Washington, D.C., and Boston.