for the moments worth crossing for

The 1881 Studio started from something personal.

The name comes from the 1,881 miles between San Francisco and Mexico City, a long distance relationship that became a big part of our story. Being in a long distance relationship taught us how meaningful photos can be. They aren't just pictures. They become reminders of the people we love, the places we've been, and the moments we want to hold onto.

When my partner and I visited South Korea, we noticed how popular photo booths were, and of course, we had to try a few ourselves. We took photos and videos in different booths, and those photos ended up meaning so much to us. Every time we look at them, they bring us back to that trip and make us want to go back all over again.

That experience planted the seed for The 1881 Studio, but the idea of storytelling has been part of my life for much longer.

For more than 15 years, I have worked alongside immigrant communities as an organizer and advocate. Throughout that work, I have seen the power of storytelling to bring people together, celebrate where we come from, and make sure our communities are seen.

The 1881 Studio is an extension of that work in a different form. I see the photo booth as another tool for storytelling, one that captures people, relationships, cultures, and communities in a way they can physically take home with them.

Today, I create modern, editorial-style photo booth experiences for weddings, celebrations, community gatherings, nonprofit events, and brands. I am especially proud to work with immigrant-serving organizations and mission-driven spaces that bring people together and celebrate community.

At the heart of The 1881 Studio is something simple: people and their stories. Whether it's a wedding, community gathering, or special milestone, I want every photo to be more than a picture. I want it to bring you back to the people, feeling, and story behind that moment.