The Perfect Gift for the Music Lover in Your Life: Limited Editions!

Discover the Ultimate Gift for Music Lovers: The Aretha Franklin Collector's Edition

For those in search of the perfect last-minute gift for a music aficionado, the collector's edition of "Aretha Cool: The Intimate Portraits" at ArethaCool.com offers an unparalleled experience. This isn't just a book, but a treasure trove of music history packed with exclusive items:

  • Signed and Numbered Print: Each box set includes a rare 8x10 print, personally signed by renowned photographer Matthew Jordan Smith, making it a prized possession for any collector.

  • Accordion Foldout Print Booklet: Explore more of Aretha’s legacy with an exquisite accordion booklet featuring additional iconic photographs, perfect for displaying and admiring.

  • Certificate of Authenticity: Receive a certificate that verifies the limited nature of this collector’s item, ensuring its authenticity and rarity.

  • USB Drive with Exclusive Commentary: Listen to Matthew Jordan Smith reveal the stories behind the photographs, enhancing your appreciation and connection to Aretha Franklin's artistic journey.

This collector's edition is more than a gift; it's an entry into the soulful world of the Queen of Soul herself, packaged for those who cherish the depth and impact of her music. Don't miss the chance to own a piece of history—only 40 copies remain of this limited edition masterpiece.

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Remembering the Apple iPod: How Music and Photography Collide

Remembering the Apple iPod: How Music and Photography Collide

A wave of nostalgia hits me every time I think about the Apple iPod. For me, as a professional celebrity photographer, the iPod was far more than just a music player; it was a vital tool that set the tone and atmosphere for some of the most iconic photo shoots of my career. In today’s world of streaming services like Spotify, it’s easy to overlook just how groundbreaking the iPod was, but for those of us who relied on it daily, the memories remain crystal clear.

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Discover the Essence of Japan through Photography: The "Shutter and Silk" Workshop Experience

Discover the Essence of Japan through Photography: The "Shutter and Silk" Workshop Experience

Experience Japan like never before with the "Shutter and Silk" workshop, led by renowned celebrity photographer Matthew Jordan Smith, known for his portraits of Oprah Winfrey, Zendaya, and more. Dive into the art of photography while exploring the elegance of the Japanese Kimono in a traditional setting. This unique workshop offers tourists a rare chance to capture the essence of Japan’s cultural heritage and return home with stunning images and unforgettable memories. Discover more and join us on this extraordinary journey at kimonosheila.com/workshops.

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Celebrate Amazon Prime Day with 20% Off “Aretha Cool: The Intimate Portraits”!

Celebrate Amazon Prime Day with 20% Off “Aretha Cool: The Intimate Portraits”!

Celebrate Amazon Prime Day with 20% Off “Aretha Cool: The Intimate Portraits”!

Attention all music lovers and photography enthusiasts! This Amazon Prime Day, don’t miss the chance to own “Aretha Cool: The Intimate Portraits” at a special 20% discount.

Discover the Magic of Aretha Franklin through the Lens of Matthew Jordan Smith

From 2005 to 2018, renowned photographer Matthew Jordan Smith captured the essence of the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin, in a stunning collection of intimate and powerful photographs. This book offers a unique glimpse into Aretha's life, from her commanding stage presence to her candid moments behind the scenes.

Exclusive Editions

Available in both standard and limited editions, “Aretha Cool: The Intimate Portraits” is perfect for collectors and fans alike. Don’t miss this exclusive opportunity to own a piece of music and photography history at a fantastic discount.

Head over to Amazon now and take advantage of the 20% discount during Amazon Prime Day. This offer is only available for a limited time, so act fast to secure your copy at this special price!

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Capturing History: Photographing Opal Lee, the Grandmother of Juneteenth, in Tokyo

Capturing History: Photographing Opal Lee, the Grandmother of Juneteenth, in Tokyo

Recently, I had the extraordinary honor of photographing Opal Lee, known as the Grandmother of Juneteenth. At 97 years young, she had just received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Joe Biden—the highest civilian honor in the United States. Her journey then took her to Tokyo, Japan, where she was honored at the American Embassy and visited various sites.

I was commissioned to create a formal portrait of Opal Lee at the American Ambassador's residence. The brief was clear: the portrait should reflect her connection to Japan. After some research, I decided to have her dressed in a traditional Japanese kimono. With the help of a Kimono Sensei, we meticulously prepared for the shoot, ensuring every detail was perfect. The session exceeded my expectations, capturing both seated and standing portraits that highlighted her grace and the rich cultural setting.

Photographing Opal Lee was not just a professional assignment; it was a historic moment that I am incredibly proud to have been part of. Her spirit, combined with the cultural backdrop of Tokyo, made this a truly unforgettable experience.

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My Most Memorable Photography Assignment: A Surprise Dinner in NYC Leads to China

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My Most Memorable Photography Assignment: A Surprise Dinner in NYC Leads to China

In this blog post, I recount one of the most memorable assignments of my career—a month-long photographic journey in China, initiated by an unexpected invitation during a dinner in New York. This experience not only challenged my skills but also enriched my perspective on the universal language of photography. Through collaborations with some of China's top filmmakers and artists, I explored the power of lighting and its emotional resonance, all while enjoying the rare creative freedom to experiment and learn. Join me as I share insights from this transformative adventure and discuss how continuous learning and cultural exchanges shape the art of photography.

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Aretha Cool: The Intimate Portraits – A Global Tribute to Aretha Franklin for Fans and Collectors →

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Aretha Cool: The Intimate Portraits – A Global Tribute to Aretha Franklin for Fans and Collectors

Celebrate the life and legacy of the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin, with the release of “Aretha Cool: The Intimate Portraits.” This exclusive book, available globally at arethacool.com, showcases the extraordinary collaboration between Aretha Franklin and renowned photographer Matthew Jordan Smith. For collectors and fans worldwide, the Limited Edition of this book, with just over 40 copies remaining, offers a unique and valuable perspective into Aretha's world. A must-have for art enthusiasts and admirers of soul music, secure your copy of this fast-selling collectible and own a piece of music history. #ArethaFranklin #ArethaCool #LimitedEdition #MusicHistory #PhotographyArt

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Celebrating Womanhood and Music: “Aretha Cool: The Intimate Portraits” Now Available

As we immerse ourselves in Women’s History Month, a time dedicated to honoring the remarkable contributions of women throughout history, we find ourselves at the intersection of celebration and remembrance. March 25th marks the birthday of the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin, an icon whose impact resonates beyond the boundaries of music and into the very heart of cultural transformation. It is with great excitement and reverence that we announce the release of Aretha Cool: The Intimate Portraits, a book that intimately showcases the collaboration between legendary photographer Matthew Jordan Smith and the incomparable Aretha Franklin, from 2005 to 2018.

Aretha Franklin singing in New York City. Photography by Matthew Jordan Smith


This book, now available on Amazon, is more than just a collection of images. It is a journey through the soulful eyes of Aretha, capturing her essence not just as a performer but as a symbol of strength, dignity, and grace that defines so many African-American women. The book resonates with the spirit of Easter Sunday traditions, where hats are not just accessories but a statement of identity and heritage, a nod to a practice dearly embraced by Aretha herself, reminiscent of the way many of our mothers, including mine, dressed on this special day.

Aretha Cool: The Intimate Portraits by Matthew Jordan Smith

Aretha Cool: The Intimate Portraits comes in two editions. The standard edition offers a glimpse into the depth of Aretha’s persona, revealing how her music and soul transcended the barriers of race, gender, and class. The limited edition, available only on Aretha Cool, is restricted to only 100 copies, delves even deeper, presenting a rare and exclusive perspective of their artistic collaboration.

As we celebrate Women’s History Month and honor the birthday of Aretha Franklin, this book stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of a woman who was not just a singer, but a symbol of empowerment and resilience. It is an intimate portrayal that Matthew Jordan Smith has meticulously crafted, allowing us to witness the vulnerability, power, and elegance of Aretha in a light never seen before.

We invite you to experience this extraordinary collaboration, a melding of visual artistry and musical genius, a tribute to a woman who inspired and empowered so many. Embrace the legacy of Aretha Franklin and discover Aretha Cool: The Intimate Portraits on Amazon today.