Video of Chamber of Commerce ribbon cutting at Iburi Photography, 35 Jackson Street, Batavia Saturday
Iburi Photography Website Link
Akari Lewis Iburi and Shin Iburi are a sister and brother duo that continue a legacy of family business started by their grandfather, in 1970. He created Hy Hope Farms with his cousins and nephews in Stafford.
“I think it’s just in our blood to just be in business with family,” says Akari.
The couple fell into wedding photography in 2009. They are both people-oriented, have an interest in family and photojournalism.
“Getting into weddings we are like real big sobbs and helpless romantics. I think it’s so appropriate for us to be in that scene, we just love and adore families so much,” Akari says.
Iburi Photography has been looking for a home to call theirs since 2019. The siblings always had eyes on 35 Jackson Street, but it wasn’t available. From 2009-2012 Akari worked for Carlson’s Studios which was right next door to the building. “Walking by here I was always feeling so inspired.”
In March 2020, the company was looking for a small space to rent in Jackson Square.
Derek Geib was introduced to the Iburis after they met with Gavin Townsend, Hunt Real Estate. Derek Geib had purchased 35 Jackson Street in Jackson Street, last year. The Iburis quickly signed a contract and moved forward.
“It’s such an inspiring space to not only create beautiful portraits and photography with the studio, but also to be able to offer a gallery and a community space for everyone to come out and enjoy each other.”
The building measures approximately 2,000 Sq. The building is divided in two sections. The back area is more of an industrial workshop, while the front is more of gallery space.
“Eventually we want to have a small rotating gallery of local artist. My husband is a musician, and we want to host a weekly “open mic” night. It is just really a creative space for everyone because there is such a creative community in Batavia and we would love to just contribute to and be a part of it,” says Akari.
Shin claims that, since they received the keys to the building in July 2022 the floor, walls, and ceilings have been redone. This has created the atmosphere for which the couple was looking.
“A big part of this is having the space to be able to print images for clients. We have a commercial printer. We have museum quality archival prints and we can do really unique sizing,” says Akari.
The two say they didn’t plan this kind of thing.
“Over time as we shot more and more weddings and started getting recommendations, it just evolved. Our business has been successful in part because someone was willing to take a risk on us. Danielle from Terry Hills recommended us and believed in us. Tonight is more about celebrating the people who have helped us along the way,” says Shin.
