Manual Opens New Community Centered NYC Photolab
Lifestyle photography and community centered brand Manual has found a new home, the Manual Photo Lab. Located in the heart of NYC’s Chinatown on 85A Allen Street, the space is a haven for analogue photography and communion. Founded in 2017 by designer Malcom Dia, Manual’s ideology is simple: “Our memories matter.” The idea came when Dia saw that within this digital age, people still thirst for analogue photography. However, there was no helm to foster this community. Now, the brand strives to make film and digital camera’s that are accessible, expressive, and fun to use for Gen Z.
Intentionally Designed
The physical store is a reflection of the community and visual identity Manual has built. Mimicking the translucent design that shows the interior of Manual cameras, the street view shows the contents of the Lab’s building by a clear panel. Inside the 400 square foot Lab, clear ceilings expose the brickwood interiors from the 1800s. Sheer curtains shine soft light in the space from the back film lab.
The store calls on society’s need for third spaces. A place that does not just sell a product but fosters a space where you can stay in. Overall, the Lab reads social makerspace from the intentional materials and community lounge aesthetics. Steel shelves showcase zines to look through and plywood conversation benches are drenched in natural lighting.
In addition to Manual film and cameras, select Kodak film stocks and curated third-party products are available. The Lab stocks books, zines, and merchandise from publishers like Super Labo and Pomegranate Press.
Community Centered Neighbors
Dia recalls how all the camera stores he grew up near were family-owned shops, making Allen Street the obvious home for Manual. Chinatown is known for its small family business, print shops, and photo labs. Most importantly, the community treats their customers as friends, prompting Manual to do the same.
The Lab launched featuring multiple community supporting features. Manual hosted an exhibition presented with Silvertooth Agency, an original painting by New York based artist Leon Xu, and works or zines by emerging artists. Manual aims to be a good neighbor. This entails accessible prices that locals can afford and supporting local photographers and artists. The Lab offers print development services starting at $15 and a 2-3 business day turn around.
New Beginnings
The opening of their physical store coincides with the release of a new camera, the Holo Digicam and their pop up shop at Paris Mens Fashion Week. The lab is the newest edition to the growing brand and personifies their goal of capturing memories in community.
