Video of Chamber of Commerce Ribbon Cutting at Iburi Photography at 35 Jackson Street in Batavia on Saturday
Link to website: Iburi Photography
The sister and brother team of Akari Lewis-Iburi and Shin Iburi is a continuation of a family business legacy that started with their grandfather in 1970, who created Hy Hope Farms in Stafford with his cousins and uncles.
“I think it’s just in our blood to just be in business with family,” says Akari.
The pair fell into the wedding world in 2009. They have a feeling for people, an interest in photojournalism, and families.
“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 had been in search of a place to call their own 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 of 2020, they were looking at a small office space in Jackson Square.
After meeting up with Gavin Townsend of Hunt Real Estate, the Iburis were connected with Derek Geib, who purchased 35 Jackson Street last year. They quickly took action and signed a lease.
“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 is about 2,000 Sq. Ft. and is split into two sections. The back space is more of a workshop and the front area is more of a gallery meeting space.
“Eventually we want to have a small rotating gallery of local artist. My husband is a musician, and we are looking to have a weekly open mic night and have some original music here. 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 says since being handed the keys in July 2022, the have redone the floors, walls and ceilings to create the atmosphere they were looking for.
“A big part of this is having the space to be able to print images for clients. We have our own commercial printer. We have museum quality archival prints and we can do really unique sizing,” says Akari.
The duo says they did not plan for this type of thing.
“Over time as we shot more and more weddings and started getting recommendations, it just evolved. Every part of the success of our business is because someone took a chance on us when we first started. People like Danielle at Terry Hills that recommended us and trusted us. Tonight is more about celebrating the people who have helped us along the way,” says Shin.
