W. Eugene Smith was an influential American photojournalist known for his powerful black-and-white photography. Born on December 30, 1918, in Wichita, Kansas, he became famous for his in-depth photo essays that captured the human condition. His work often focused on social issues, including the impact of war and industrialization. One of his most notable projects was the Pittsburgh photo essay, which documented the lives of workers in the steel industry. Smith's dedication to his craft and his ability to convey emotion through images have left a lasting legacy in the field of photojournalism. He passed away on October 15, 1978.