Meet Yolanda Smith (@ypsmithphotos) — Philly-born, a woman of many hats, and a force behind the camera. A celebrated Celebrity Photographer, Mother, IT Professional, and a woman who has mastered the art of taking the road less traveled. With over 20 years behind the lens, Yolanda sits down with Onney the CEO (@onneytheceo) for a raw, transparent conversation about purpose, loss, growth, and the gift of capturing stories in a single frame.

From traveling the country as a live-performance photographer shooting icons like Trey Songz, Lil’ Kim, Beyoncé, Tank, Tyrese, India Arie, Michelle Obama and more, to landing early-career opportunities such as Essence Festival, Yolanda shares how each experience shaped her journey—both artistically and personally. She also opens up about her time traveling while serving in the U.S. Air Force, her dual passion for Information Technology, and the unexpected pathways that led her to where she is today.

In one of her most heartfelt revelations, Yolanda speaks openly about navigating the grief of losing her mother, the ache of wishing she could witness her evolution, and the gratitude for the time they shared. She reflects on raising her son—now a man and father—and how the best parts of her mother live on through both of them.

We go deep into friendships, exploring betrayal, breakups, rebuilding, and choosing relationships that honor peace and growth. Together, we unpack:

✨ Friendship PTSD✨ Healthy circles vs. harmful access✨ Proximity, boundaries & emotional safety✨ The importance of friends who water the tree, not just grab the fruit

And finally—Yolanda gives her take on AI vs. real photographers on the ground. 

Tune into this powerful episode about artistry, resilience, motherhood, loss, evolution, and the bonds that shape us. #OutsideTheBoxWithOnney #YolandaSmith #OnneyTheCEO #CelebrityPhotographer #Travel #Podcast #TalkShow #Legacy #Inspiration #BlackExcellence #Storytelling

Outside the Box with Onney is an unfiltered, uncensored platform where entrepreneurs, visionaries, and changemakers pull back the curtain on their journeys—and share the pivotal "Aha Moments" that changed everything.

Hosted by the bold and charismatic Onney the CEO, each episode invites guests from all walks of life to speak candidly about their triumphs, trials, and the turning points that led them to pursue their purpose. Onney’s magnetic energy and fearless approach create a safe, empowering space for real conversations, raw truths, and meaningful breakthroughs.

From unexpected challenges to hard-earned victories, this show is more than storytelling—it's a movement of inspiration for anyone daring to dream bigger.

What was your Aha Moment? Let’s talk about it.