Photography Studios “develop” in the University District
Two new photography studios have opened in the University District! We interviewed the owners of both to see what brought them here, what’s happening now, and what’s coming next.
Zeal Creative
A husband and wife duo, Zeal Creative was founded by Kevin and Ellen Cramblet in November of 2019. With over a decade of photography experience, the two began operating a full service photography and videography business out of their own home. Things became difficult once the COVID-19 pandemic hit, nevertheless, they persevered and began searching for a studio of their own. In March of 2021, they moved into the former Kafe Karryout space at 2240 N. High Street.
Zeal Creative specializes in photography and videography, but also offers brand association services for local businesses and nonprofits. In each service they offer, what sets Zeal Creative apart is their commitment to capturing stories. While working as a creative storyteller at a nonprofit, Kevin took stories of homelessness, addiction, and recovery and crafted them into compelling images and videos. Drawing from this experience, Kevin and Ellen cultivated a passion for not only getting the shot, but also the story and emotion behind each moment. They are also incredibly committed to offering their clients the best possible service they can whether that involves being flexible with scheduling, offering free snacks and water in their studio, or even traveling all the way to Cabo, Mexico for a week-long wedding shoot. Zeal Creative is willing to go the extra mile to meet and exceed client expectations.
To learn more or schedule a shoot, check out their website at Zeal Creative.
Emma Parker Photography
Emma Parker had initially planned to be a teacher. However, she ultimately decided to go a different route when she began her photography business in 2012. She began by photographing weddings before branching out into other areas. Today, Emma is a commercial and lifestyle photographer. Extensively experienced, she has done work for large clients such as OSU and COTA. She has also covered major events, having documented Pride since 2018. Earlier in her career, she shared a studio on Summit Street with two other photographers, but in May of 2021, she finally opened her own studio at 1561 N. 4th Street. She chose to remain in the University District because she loves how accessible it is to a wide variety of people. Being located right on a main street gives anyone the opportunity to walk into her studio and immerses her business into the heart of the community. Emma lives nearby in Clintonville with her wife, chickens, and three cats.
Emma is renowned for her passion for capturing the LGBTQIA+ community as well as other underrepresented groups. Her mission is to make her clients feel welcomed, seen, and accepted for who they are. Emma’s commitment to this is evident in her work, as well as her extensive certifications. Emma is WBE, EDGE, and LGBTBE certified. These certifications are valuable to her because they demonstrate her commitment to and expertise in documenting those who have traditionally been marginalized. Currently, Emma is pursuing her mission through her work documenting the trans community. She says that it has been a very humbling experience photographing people who may have recently transitioned or who may not have had their photo taken since transitioning. Her next project regarding this is a gallery show featuring portraits of trans people paired with real-life quotes to promote trans visibility. She is doing this work for free and is financing the effort through a GoFundMe campaign. To learn more about the project, donate, or schedule a shoot, please check out her blog at Emma Parker Photography.
