Today we’d like to introduce you to Desserin & Michael Pereyra.
Hi Desserin & Michael, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
We noticed the need for accessible, creative spaces in the San Fernando Valley. We wanted to be able to provide a space for local creatives to congregate and create great works of art together. It has always been Mike’s dream to open a community darkroom. In 2018, I asked him while we were out on a coffee date, what he would do if money was not an object. He ended up describing a space where photographers and other creatives can work and play together. I recorded everything he said that afternoon on a voice memo and used it as the foundation for 818 Community Darkroom. I wanted to see his dream become real. I guess you can say that this space is Mike’s love letter to the creative community. It is also my love letter to Mike.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It has not been smooth at all! We had to learn almost everything from scratch. We started with a very limited budget, we could see our savings dwindle very quickly. It’s scary putting all your eggs in one basket, but it is what we needed to do in order to get started. Luckily, we have each other to lean on when we start to feel the pressure.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Analog Photography can be an expensive medium and we want to make sure that nobody is priced out of utilizing this medium to tell their story due to financial limitations associated with printing and processing their work.
We acknowledge that creating quality, photographic work takes time, resources and a dedicated space. Our goal is to lower the barrier of entry by providing affordable memberships and hourly darkroom rentals to the community.
What sets you apart from others? What are we most proud of brand wise?
I am proud that we are super approachable. We encourage a culture of sharing and I feel like our members reflect these values. Everybody is super respectful and supportive and I am proud of the quality to people that our business attracts.
What do you want our readers to know about your brand, offerings, services, etc?
We also host group photography exhibits for the community to enjoy. By creating this exposure it not only provides a space for photographers to share their work, but it also creates a space for the community to access the work in a space that is familiar to them.
My hope is that our shows can encourage people who have been previously discouraged from pursuing their creative interests to see that it can be done.
How do you define success?
Success is being able to live out what you have in your heart.
Pricing:
- $25 Community Memberships, 2 hours free every month
- $20 Guided sessions
- 2 hours for $20, First Time Visit
- Student Memberships – Free, $5 student member price for hourly rentals
Contact Info:
- Website: www.818darkroom.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/818communitydarkroom/
