$10K in camera gear stolen from Jacksonville photographer

A local photographer said thousands of dollars worth of his professional camera gear was stolen. He is now working to buy new equipment and restore his livelihood.

Toni Smailagić's website shows what he sees through his camera lens – high-end fashion photos taken around the world from Paris to New York to Miami. He's also taken several photos for clients and at events across Jacksonville.

But Smailagić said someone stole his camera and other photography equipment valued at $10,000 he had concealed inside of his locked car while he was spending a few hours on the town with his friends.

“It was in the passenger side on the floor, covered with T-shirts and a hat.” Smailagić said, “My heart sank.”

It happened Monday night off Hogan and Adams streets in downtown Jacksonville.

“As soon as I opened the door, I saw the crowbar sitting across the two seats. I just shut the car and was like 'yeah, my camera is gone,'” he said.

Smailagić called the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office and officers told him it looked like the thief may have spent a half-hour breaking into the car. His friends set up a GoFundMe page to raise money for replacement gear.

But Smailagić said he is not looking for a handout.  Instead, he spent Tuesday afternoon going to businesses across downtown looking for work to earn the money so he can get back to doing what he loves.

Cox Media Group