Photodom, a beloved Black-owned film and photography shop, recently celebrated the grand “re-opening” of its new storefront in Bushwick. The event was filled with excitement as founder Dominick Lewis, surrounded by family, friends, and loyal customers, cut the ribbon on the new ground-level location at 1717 Broadway. The bright and colorful 1,600-square-foot space drew a lively crowd, with visitors browsing gear, merch, and rentals. A retro claw machine filled with plush toys, film rolls, and cameras added to the festive atmosphere.
Founded in 2014 as a tribute to film culture, Photodom became a physical reality in 2020 after Lewis raised over $35,000 through a successful GoFundMe campaign. The original third-floor, 400-square-foot walk-up in a 1917 Bushwick building has now been upgraded to a more visible location with a 10-year lease. Lewis expressed his excitement about the new space, stating that it makes the shop more accessible to everyone, especially those who couldn’t navigate the three flights of stairs in the old location.
The build-out process for the new storefront came with its challenges, including navigating tariffs and coordinating the shipment of inventory from China. Despite these obstacles, Photodom now offers a range of services including camera rentals, film processing, and inkjet printing. The store has also become a hub for creative education, hosting workshops, artist residencies, and photography critique nights.
Photodom’s unique in-house film has garnered a loyal following, with customers like Den Alexander praising the shop’s experimental approach. Events like the annual yard sale and the Juneteenth Photo Walk draw large crowds, showcasing the community support for this local gem. Analog street photographer Jean-Andre Antoine summed it up perfectly, expressing his gratitude for the convenience and quality Photodom provides.
Overall, Photodom’s new storefront is not just a retail space but a cultural hub that fosters creativity, collaboration, and community engagement. The shop’s commitment to film culture and education sets it apart, making it a must-visit destination for photography enthusiasts in Bushwick and beyond.
