Caitlin Smith (b. 2000) is a Chicago-based, Black femme photo artist who blends intimate portraiture with a cinematic approach to create imagery that reflects the intersectional complexities of a Black femme's experience. Smith explores the complexities of a Black femme through personal reflection.

Born and raised in Chicago, Smith's journey into photography began at the age of 14. During her undergraduate studies, Smith worked at Light Work, a Syracuse-based non-profit photo lab facility. Smith's dedication to photography was evident as a photo lab assistant, assisting artists and other photo lab workers with printing, scanning, and critiquing work. This experience ignited a passion for experimentation, particularly with printing methods, paper materials, and photo scanning. 

After completing her undergraduate studies, Smith consciously returned to Chicago to establish an independent artist practice in her home studio.