Welcome to the Neighborhood: Hamu Studio!

Hey lovely People! Thanks for hoppin’ over to the website and hangin out here in Haight Street Voice-land!

This month Linda and I got to stop in one of the fabulous new additions on the 1600 block of Haight Street, Hamu Studio — right next door to other wonderful newcomers to Haight Street, Sound Minds Music School and Fun on Haight!

I was so excited when this spot opened because I love printed photo strips. I have a collection of photo strips from different events on my pinboard above where I write, and I’ve seen similar memories at my friends’ houses. I’m delighted and fascinated with how a photobooth can create a magic circle where it’s safe to be silly and fun with your friends then save it on paper, allowing us to conjure a little joy later on pin boards, refrigerators, and in photo albums.

In a global season when we could all use a little extra joy now (and a little to save in our pocket for later) what better time to grab a friend and make a fun memory with them than today?

While we were at the shop, Savannah (the owner and operator) was kind enough to chat with us about her business before we made memories in the photo booth.

The name Hamu Studio is so cute, does Hamu stand for anything?

Thank you! It’s kind of an abbreviation of hamster. I went with this name because it sounds cute, but there’s no deep meaning behind it.

When did you open?

August 27, 2024!

Are you from SF originally or if not what brought you here/ how long have you been in SF?

I grew up in the peninsula, but in recent years I’ve been living and working in San Francisco.

What do you love about Haight Ashbury? Why open in this neighborhood?

I like the vibe of the neighborhood. I’ve also met lots of friendly and interesting people. Neighbors have stopped by to say hi, and I’ve met a few artists in just the past few weeks.

I had been looking for a suitable space for months and happened to meet up with a friend here. She’s a tour guide and gave me a mini tour of the neighborhood, and I really liked it!

What about photo booths made you want to create a space for others to enjoy them?

I like that it’s a fun, inexpensive group activity. Photo booths are also so versatile and can come in all kinds of styles. I liked the idea of customizing a space to my liking.

What were you doing before this?

I used to do graphic design and UX design.

What’s a favorite moment you’ve had with a customer since opening?

I like hearing people say the space, props, photos are cute and hear them laugh uncontrollably with their friends.

What pro tips do you have for getting the perfect photo strip alone or with friends?

I think it’s a good idea to plan your poses and what props you’ll use for each photo.

Anything else you want to share with our readers?

I’ve been thinking about potentially organizing events and doing collaborations. If you’re an artist or brand interested in working together, please reach out!

Hey People! Diggin’ this digital experience of Haight Street Voice? Hop on the Haight Street Voice bus TODAY!

1600 Block Haight Street – Mini Guide

NEW!

Hamu Studio

https://hamustudio.com

Contact for collaborations: contact@hamustudio.com

Sound Minds Music School

https://www.soundminds.online

Fun on Haight

https://funonhaight.square.site

Everdaze

https://www.everdaze.co