Light & Lens Studios: A Creative Hub for Photography Lovers
Located in the Broad Street plaza in Glens Falls, New York, Light & Lens Studios is a sparkling new addition to the local arts scene, bringing photography enthusiasts together in a community-driven space that’s as welcoming as it is inspiring. Opened in late February 2025 with a grand opening in March, this studio, brainchild of Jess Keller, is a love letter to the art of photography—both digital and traditional film. With a rentable studio, a rare public darkroom, a gallery for local artists, and a slew of classes and events, Light & Lens is quickly becoming a go-to spot for creatives looking to learn, connect, and capture the world through their lenses.
Jess, a lifelong shutterbug, has been hooked on photography since snagging her first DSLR at 13. From selling prints at art fairs to managing her college photography department at Hofstra University, she’s always had a knack for turning fleeting moments into lasting images. By day, Jess is a mental health therapist with a master’s in social work, counseling clients Monday through Wednesday. But Thursday through Sunday, she’s at Light & Lens, channeling her entrepreneurial spirit and passion for photography into a space that feels like a cozy, creative clubhouse. “I wanted to create a community space to make photography accessible,” Jess says, recalling the isolating hours spent editing alone at home. Her vision? A hub where hobbyists, professionals, and curious newcomers can mingle, learn, and grow.
What sets Light & Lens apart is its blend of modern and nostalgic offerings. The studio, available for hourly rentals, is a dream for photographers and videographers needing a professional setup without the overhead of a permanent space. Its flexible scheduling and easily accessible location makes it a practical choice for busy creatives. But the real gem is the darkroom, a rarity within a two-hour radius. Jess, who fell in love with film photography during her college days, missed the magic of developing prints by hand. “There’s an art to it,” she says, describing the grainy texture and happy accidents—like light leaks or underdeveloped film—that give film prints their unique charm. The darkroom is open to all, with Jess planning to add signs and marked chemical containers to guide even rusty developers through the process.
Light & Lens isn’t just about gear—it’s about community. Jess, inspired by the collaborative vibe of her college photography department, has packed the studio’s calendar with events to spark creativity. The monthly Photo Club is a standout, operating like a book club for shutterbugs. Each month, participants get a photography prompt—like April’s “inspired by your favorite photographer”—and head out to shoot. They reconvene the first Sunday of the month (next up: May 4, 3–4 p.m.) to share their work, discuss techniques, and pick a new prompt from Jess’s fishbowl of ideas. The club is free, open to everyone, and inclusive of all skill levels—whether you’re shooting with a DSLR, an iPhone, or a vintage film camera. Jess even set up a dedicated email (photoclub@lightandlensgf.com) for digital submissions, displayed on a shiny new TV for group viewing. With 14 attendees at the first meeting and more expressing interest online, the club is already a hit.
For those with existing work to share, bi-weekly Critique Nights offer a supportive space to present photos and get constructive feedback. “Everyone’s been super encouraging,” Jess notes, emphasizing that all cameras, from phones to pro gear, are welcome. Classes and workshops are also in the works, focusing on everything from basic camera operation to film developing and Photoshop 101. Jess is eager to bring in local photographers as independent contractors to teach, with plans for fun, hands-on sessions like making pinhole cameras from coffee cans or exploring alternative processes like cyanotypes. These offerings aim to reintroduce the darkroom to those who haven’t developed film in decades and inspire newcomers to dive into the craft.
The studio’s gallery adds another layer of excitement, showcasing local photographers’ work for sale. Currently, prints by David Aimone, a darkroom maestro, grace the walls, their black-and-white textures a testament to film’s enduring appeal. Jess envisions a rotating cast of artists, with formal contracts in the pipeline to make the process official. Her own photography, influenced by French film photographer Henri Cartier-Bresson, often captures split-second moments—like birds mid-flight or rushing water—that feel alive with motion. “It’s about making the impermanent permanent,” she says, a philosophy that drives her work and the studio’s mission.
Jess’s journey to opening Light & Lens was a leap of faith. After years in a demanding community mental health role, she switched to private practice, reclaiming time for hobbies and sparking the idea for the studio. With help from SUNY Albany’s Small Business Development Center, she crafted a business plan, found a conveniently located space across from her therapy office, and got to work. Joining the Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce boosted her networking, connecting her with local creatives and business owners. Despite admitting she’s really nervous when meeting new people, Jess has found the Glens Falls community—especially its arts scene—warm and collaborative. “Everyone’s trying to lift each other up,” she says, citing local support from figures like David Aimone, who invited her to present at the Beekman Street Art Fair.
Looking ahead, Jess is brimming with ideas. She’s focused on launching classes, expanding workshops, and building the studio’s community vibe. The pricing—designed to be reasonable and accessible—makes it easy for anyone to book studio or darkroom time via lightandlensgf.com/reserve or by contacting Jess directly (lightandlensgf@gmail.com, social media, or a quick text to the studio phone). Walk-ins are welcome too, adding a spontaneous thrill to the studio’s open-door policy. “I never know who’s going to come through the door,” Jess laughs.
For photography lovers, Light & Lens Studios is a playground of possibilities. Whether you’re dusting off a film camera, honing your digital skills, or just curious about the art, Jess has created a space where creativity thrives. Check out lightandlensgf.com, follow @lightandlensgf on Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok, and swing by the studio Thursday through Sunday. Better yet, join the Photo Club or a Critique Night to meet fellow enthusiasts and let your inner artist shine. In Glens Falls, Light &Lens is lighting the way for a new era of photography fun.
