Anthony Ryan Schmidt is a professional photographer who specializes in creating realistic images of miniature cars with his iPhone. He has been fascinated with cars and model collecting since he was a child and has developed his own style of photography that captures the beauty of automobiles through time. He has published two coffee table books of his work titled “Small Cars, Big Inspiration” and “Shifting Perspectives”, which showcase his journey as an artist on the autism spectrum. He has also gained a large fan base on social media where he shares his photos and stories.

In his second book, “Shifting Perspectives”, Anthony explores how his work shifts perspectives on multiple levels, from delighting viewers with carefully composed scenes featuring miniature cars to demonstrating how people are much more than they appear on the surface. The book features 158 pages full of stunning color photos that reflect Anthony’s growth as a photographer over the last two years. Anthony’s work has been featured in various publications such as Car and Driver and Hemmings, Wheel Hub Magazine and he has won an award at the Hall of Honor ceremony in Las Vegas for his outstanding contribution to the diecast car culture.

The 2024 calendar is 8.5” x 11'“ and printed on high quality glossy card stock.

Meeting Craig Martin at Trunk or Treat

It wasn't long ago that we met Craig Martin at Trunk or Treat. He was showcasing his stunning jet-black 1987 Grand National. At that time, Anthony was dressed as Doc from "Back to the Future" and struck up a conversation with Craig, who is also a musician. Craig, whose grandson has autism, was quite taken with Anthony.

A Song for Anthony's Photography

Craig generously offered to write a song to accompany Anthony's photography for online posting. Over time, he kept in touch via email, consistently reminding us about his promise and updating us on the song's progress. When he sent us the first mix of the song, it was an overwhelming experience. The song exceeded our expectations, with its remarkable vocal quality, heart-felt lyrics that perfectly describe Anthony, and even a mention of his '57 Ford and Silverhawk, which Anthony particularly enjoyed.

Craig's Personal Connection and Challenges

Craig admitted, “This is probably the hardest song I’ve ever written, given the pre-determined subject matter. Trying to express something through the eyes of Anthony or my grandson, Peyton, was challenging. I’m not them, so I can only speculate about their perspective on life.” He also shared how emotional the process was, to the point where he would get choked up during recording and mixing. He even had to leave the room when playing an earlier version for Peyton’s mother, Ashley, his daughter.

The Video Featuring Peyton

In the music video, Craig's grandson Peyton, who is also autistic, played the younger version of Anthony. Peyton, dressed in a white shirt, is shown alongside Anthony, who is teaching him how to pose with the original truck from his first viral photo, taken when he was just 10 years old. Anthony’s brother, Alex, was also involved in the project. Craig taught Anthony rocker moves and poses, allowing Anthony to channel his inner rock star. As Anthony puts it, "autism kicks butt!" And now, it rocks too!

Anthony Ryan Schmidt's New Book: Shifting Perspectives

Anthony Ryan Schmidt, a talented 16-year-old photographer with autism, has recently released a new book titled "Shifting Perspectives." This book is a collection of his latest miniature car photography and is available for purchase on his official website, www.AnthonyRyanSchmidt.com. "Shifting Perspectives" is a journey through the mind of a young man with autism, using his special interest in cars to connect with the world. The book promises to be an exciting addition for fans of Anthony's work and new readers alike, offering a unique perspective that transports readers to different times and places.

For those interested in exploring Anthony's world through his photography, you can purchase "Shifting Perspectives" at Anthony Ryan Schmidt's website.