By Ann Donnelly
In a move sparking excitement among local artists, Light & Lens Studio, opening on Broad Street in Glens Falls later this month, offers a unique space for digital and traditional film photography enthusiasts. Unlike other studios, Light & Lens Studio, founded by the passionate photographer Jess Keller, is not just a rental space but a community hub for creatives.
Keller’s journey to opening this studio is a testament to her love for photography and entrepreneurial spirit. A self-described “hobby photographer,” Keller’s interest in the art form began in her teenage years. “I’ve been interested in photography since I was a teenager,” Keller explains. Her passion deepened during her time at Hofstra University, where she worked in the photo lab, eventually managing it and learning the intricacies of film development in a darkroom.
The inspiration for Light & Lens Studio stemmed from a desire to create a space that offered more than just a studio rental. “I knew I always wanted to start a business, preferably in the art world,” Keller said. “And when it comes to the darkroom and studio, there weren’t places where people could go and rent the space – or even just artistic hangout spaces.” This realization fueled her desire to create a space that was both accessible and inspiring.
“The equipment is expensive, setting up a darkroom is… you gotta get the chemicals, you gotta get everything,” Keller noted. She wanted to make these resources more accessible, fostering a community where photographers could share knowledge and inspiration. The studio offers a fully equipped darkroom and a modern studio space with lighting, catering to both film and digital photographers.
A significant aspect of Light & Lens Studio is its commitment to supporting local artists. Keller’s vision includes a gallery space where photographers can display their work. “I’ve always just wanted to be able to display people’s work and support local photographers,” she explained.
“Community is the big part,” Keller emphasized. “I want it to be that people can come in, hang out, and have that artistic conversation.” This emphasis on fostering a collaborative environment sets Light & Lens Studio apart from typical rental spaces. “When I was in college, I felt most inspired by just sitting in a space with other artists, even if we’re all working on our own things, getting people’s opinions on it.”
The studio offers a range of facilities, including darkroom and studio rentals by the hour, with plans for a membership model in the future. There are also printers, props, and other accessories available. Keller also intends to offer classes on various aspects of photography, like beginner darkroom techniques, which include developing film and printing on paper, alternative processes, studio lighting, and displaying your artwork. Keller is also planning talks and special events like critique nights.
Keller’s journey to Glens Falls is a story of serendipity. Originally from New Jersey, In May 2020, she and her partner were looking for a change of pace and a closer connection to nature. Keller, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, was offered a position in this area, and the rest is history. Then, when Keller was looking for a studio location, the perfect space opened up directly across from her day job.
Keller’s commitment to affordability is evident in the studio’s pricing structure. “I wanted to make it affordable, and the way of doing that was like making it affordable for others. I have to make it affordable for myself first,” she explained. This approach aims to make the studio accessible to a wide range of photographers.
Keller’s resourcefulness and dedication have been instrumental in bringing her vision to life. From sourcing equipment at estate sales to receiving generous donations from fellow artists, she’s built the studio with a keen eye on affordability. “I don’t want to make people rent the darkroom or the studio for a ton of money. We’re artists. We don’t have a lot to spare,” she explains.
The studio offers hourly rentals for the darkroom and studio space, with plans to introduce a membership model. Keller’s flexibility extends to accommodating individual needs, even outside of regular operating hours.
“I’ve had a lot of people that have been interested and waiting for the place to open,” Keller says, expressing her excitement for the studio’s potential. She’s actively engaging with the community through social media and a monthly newsletter, providing updates on the studio’s progress and fostering a sense of anticipation.
As Light & Lens Studio prepares for its grand opening, Keller focuses on building a sustainable business that serves the local artistic community. “I’m hoping, though, that as time goes on and people see the space,” she said, “the word will get around.” With its unique blend of traditional and modern photography resources, Light & Lens Studio is poised to become a cornerstone of the Glens Falls arts scene.
The public is welcome to Light & Lens’s Grand Opening Weekend celebrations. A Ribbon Cutting Ceremony by the Adirondack Regional Chamber takes place on Friday, March 28, 2025, from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m., with celebrations continuing on Saturday, March 29, 2025, from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Light & Lens Studio is at 130 Broad Street, Unit 5, Glens Falls. For more information, visit Light & Lens Studio’s website, www.lightandlensgf.com.