Sharon’s Studio of Gloucester
July 2, 2024
Who are you and what is your business?
Hi, I am Kendra Dott owner and photographer at Sharon’s Studio of Gloucester. My studio is located at Double Exposure at 179 Washington St. in Gloucester. My parents started Double Exposure in the late 70’s. I took over when the warmer weather of Florida started calling to them. I have no employees, just me and an occasional 2nd shooter for a big wedding. Oh yeah, I have paid my 10 year old niece to mow the front lawn. The store/studio is open 9:30-2:30 Monday – Friday but I basically work 7 days a week photographing portraits and events on the weekends and weekday evenings.
Please provide a brief description of your company.
So after having the photo industry tank. Double Exposure and Sharon’s Studio had to make changes. We now do amazing portraits, creative wedding and event photography and pretty much any photography with a face in it. Even Cats. In addition to all types of photography, I copy/scan and touch up old photos, I do custom printing, beautiful Custom Framing, Passport photos with studio lighting and we specialize in Australian and Canadian Passports, which are difficult to get accepted. We have people come from Maine and New Hampshire to get passport photos done. If I don’t do what you’re looking for I can steer you in the right direction.
What inspired you to start your business and what keeps you going?
I was reluctant to continue my family business. I was basically strong-armed into helping with weddings by my mom. It takes a certain type of person to walk into a home or venue and start taking pictures of people you don’t know and tell them what to do. That takes time to develop. Also, as I got older I didn’t mind giving up my weekends as much. I love having someone tell me how much they like the photos of themselves and their family and friends. Event photography is physically exhausting but I get so excited to run back to the studio and correct all the photos. So my turnaround time is pretty quick since I can’t wait to see them.
What aspect of your business are you most passionate about?
I especially love photographing High School Seniors. It’s always the kids that don’t seem that outgoing that end up being the best models. I’m continually surprised.
Is there something unique about your business that you’d like to share that most people wouldn’t know about?
Well it started out as the first one hour lab in the North East. We also have a drive thru for picking up photos or whatever. We have parking out back because our street parking is usually taken by patrons of a great restaurant across the street. So if you’re waiting for a passport photo you can run across to George’s for lunch.
What sets your business apart from other similar businesses?
I am a yes person. I always say yes and then figure it out. If I can’t help you, I can help you find someone who can.
Do you have a goal you want the business to achieve in the next one, 5 or 10 years?
I just want to make more money and not kill myself doing it.
Why do you love the Greater Cape Ann region and doing business locally?
So if you are looking for a beautiful place to take photos Greater Cape Ann has sooooo many cool spots. I ask my clients what kind of a background are you looking for? Beach? Farm? Industrial, Working waterfront? Architectural? Rocky shore? Woodsy? We have it all. It’s nice to be a local. I grew up in Gloucester and Rockport. I live in Essex and have many friends in MBTS. I pop into Ipswich all the time. I know a lot of people, having been in the area all my life.
As someone doing business in this area, how has or how can the Chamber help your business?
I love the Chamber because it is so social and feels like you’re just going out for a drink with friends. My advertising is just word of mouth so I depend on networking and people to find new clients.
Contact Info
Sharon’s Studio of Gloucester
Double Exposure
179 Washington St.
Gloucester, MA
978-290-2989
