Meet Ashley Fuentes | J&F Photo Lab Inc Co-Owner

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ashley Fuentes and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ashley, we’d love to hear more about how your family thought about starting their business?

Ashley: Certainly. J&F PhotoLab was founded in 1992 by my parents; Jonathan and Evelyn Fuentes. Back then, they were a couple with a shared passion for photography and entrepreneurship. They decided to open a business focusing on film photography, capturing events like weddings and quinceañeras. The initial years were thriving with film being popular.

How did the shift from film to digital photography impact your business, and what challenges did you face during that transition?

Ashley: The digital era brought challenges as people moved from film to digital photography. We had to adapt, even investing in machines for SD card orders. Unfortunately, with the decline in film development, we had to discontinue the use of our film development machines.

How did you navigate those challenges, especially with the rise of smartphones and the decline in printing photos?

Ashley: The shift to iPhones posed a major challenge. With fewer people printing photos, our business faced a rough period. However, around 2016, we saw a slow resurgence of film. We saved up to provide maintenance to our film development machines and introduced in-house film development once again.

Can you share how the next generation, Ashley and Angie, played a role in revamping J&F PhotoLab?

Ashley: Seeing my parents’ struggles, Angie and I (daughters), took on the challenge. In 2018, we started using social media to market our services. Our creative marketing strategies breathed new life into our brand, reaching a broader audience and rekindling interest in film photography. This period marked a turning point for the business, as we began to regain momentum and visibility in the industry. Working at the lab, we actively train new staff, ensuring that the expertise and dedication instilled by our parents are passed on. Our commitment to providing exceptional customer service has become a cornerstone of the J&F PhotoLab experience.

Our involvement goes beyond mere responsibility; it’s driven by a shared vision for the future of J&F PhotoLab. As a family, we work cohesively, blending the experience and wisdom of our parents with the fresh perspectives and energy brought by us.

Moving forward to 2020, how did the family collectively face the challenges brought by the COVID-19 pandemic?

Ashley: The pandemic posed a unique challenge, but as a family business, we couldn’t afford to close. We created a system where customers could still drop off film while adhering to safety protocols. This became known on Instagram, and despite the difficulties, 2020 turned out to be a blessing for our business.

How has your commitment to film education and affordability become a core part of J&F PhotoLab’s identity?

Ashley: We believe in keeping film alive and affordable. We teach beginners about film, assist them in choosing equipment, and provide affordable services. Our prices are competitive, selling film at the same cost as larger corporations, aiming to make film accessible to everyone.

Building a community seems to be a key focus. How has your family-oriented approach and personalized service contributed to the strong connection with your customers?

Ashley: Being a family business allows us to provide personalized service. Knowing our customers by name, offering quick turnaround times, and creating a family atmosphere has led to customers feeling connected and valued.

Looking ahead, what are your future goals for J&F PhotoLab?

Ashley: We want to further expand the film community, host events, and continue providing top-notch services. Our goal is to nurture and grow the love for film photography, building a strong community around it.

With over 30 years of experience, how do you see J&F PhotoLab evolving in the ever-changing world of photography?

Ashley: Our vision for J&F PhotoLab extends beyond being just a photo lab; we want it to be a thriving hub for film enthusiasts of all levels. Currently, we cater to a diverse clientele, ranging from those exploring film photography for curiosity or fun, individuals pursuing it as a hobby, to professional photographers capturing events and celebrities.

For Beginners and Hobbyists:

For those just starting out or engaging in film photography as a hobby, we aim to be a welcoming space. Our services extend beyond merely providing film development; we offer guidance on choosing the right equipment, film stocks, and techniques. Whether it’s understanding how to load film or decoding the nuances of different camera models, we’re here to nurture and educate.

For Professional Photographers:

We’re proud to serve professional photographers specializing in events and celebrity photography. Our commitment to quality extends to meeting the demanding standards of professionals. From film development to scanning and printing, we ensure that their work is handled with precision and care.

Expanding the Community:

As we look ahead, our goal is to expand this vibrant film community further. We want to create an inclusive space that welcomes enthusiasts, hobbyists, and professionals alike. Through workshops, events, and collaborative projects, we aim to foster an environment where everyone, regardless of their skill level, can share knowledge and passion for film photography.

In essence, J&F PhotoLab is not just a place for developing film; it’s a community hub, an educational center, and a reliable partner for photographers at every stage of their journey.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?

Ashley, Daughter of Jonathan and Evelyn Fuentes:

I would like to dedicate this shoutout to my incredible parents, Evelyn and Jonathan. Angie and I have witnessed their dedication, the countless hours they put into the business, and the resilience they’ve shown through the ups and downs. They are not just remarkable business owners but also super parents. Despite the challenges of raising two daughters and managing a small business, they provided us with numerous opportunities.

During times when business was low, they still prioritized our education, ensuring both Angie and I could attend college. Their commitment and sacrifices speak volumes, and we are deeply appreciative. Although they are humble and shy, not seeking the spotlight, I believe they’ve created something truly valuable for the community.

Shoutout to my sister, Angie, as well. Running a small business is no easy feat, but our special bond and shared commitment to family and community make working together one of our greatest accomplishments. We’re building on the foundation our parents laid, and I’m proud of the legacy we’re creating together.

Website: https://www.jfdigitalphoto.net/

Instagram: Jfphotolabinc

Yelp: https://m.yelp.com/biz/j-and-f-photo-lab-los-angeles-2

Image Credits
All photos taken by us at J&F Photo Lab Inc. The two old school photos (I think you’ll know which ones ares Evelyn and Jonathan in the 1990’s in front of the shop. The is a group photo of 9 of us in front of the shop. We were celebrating our 31st Anniversary. An event we had Nov 2023. The photo of the girl inside the lab smiling with her J&F shirt is Angie.