Schmid acquired his skills as a draftsman in Lucerne then later in the artist colony of Johann Heinrich Bleuler in Feuerthalen. His brothers, Franz Schmid (1796-1851) and Martin Schmid (1786-1842) were also artistically active. He produced many engravings and sold numerous gouaches and drawings to wealthy tourists. Schmid chose particularly picturesque locations and was coveted for his panoramic landscapes and costume designs.
