5 minute read

The Photo Shop - Selfie House Museum

Art & Expression For All

By Scott Berson

Just a block or two from downtown Columbus in a gorgeous area of historical homes stands a beautiful two story, with a warm brick-red foundation and winding front porch ready to invite you in for an adventure. It’s not just any house, this is Columbus’ first ever selfie museum: The Photoshop Selfie House Museum.

The Photo Shop - Selfie House Museum

1425 3rd Avenue

The space is big, bold, and beautiful, just like the amazing team of women entrepreneurs who brought it to life. But what exactly is a selfie museum, you may ask?

Francine Foster, Nedra Young & Sherricka Day

“Think of fun vibrant creative backgrounds where you can take pictures, alone, with friends or family, somewhere you can have a good time and find ways to express yourself,” said Sherricka Day, one of the three women who own the business at 1425 3rd Avenue.

The idea is simple: to walk through the space and take photos in front of the backgrounds, have fun, break into poses, crack jokes and have a good time with your friends or work colleagues or family, or whomever you think might like a little fun, creativity, adventure and excitement.

There’s one thing that makes the Photoshop extra special though, and so perfectly suited to our community’s tendency to build itself up. Many of the scenes and backgrounds at the Photoshop are actual art pieces from local artists. It’s not just a “selfie museum.” It literally is a selfie museum.

“We really tried to incorporate the museum aspect into the space by having our art pieces and backdrops crafted by artists from the community. Our goal is to keep it fresh, we want people coming back, to keep it fun. We have some areas we know will rotate out and change,” Sherricka said.

One artist, Jade Collins, created a vibrant, funky neighborhood backdrop of houses and buildings for the museum, a throwback to an earlier piece she had created for Sherricka.

“It was inspired by a piece I painted after moving back to the states from Europe several years ago. We decided to throw some Columbus in there by adding the water tower,” she said. “I’m honored to be part of this collection of art they have gathered to bring a new experience to Columbus.”

Melissa (Little Bee)

photo by Sammie Saxon

That care and craft of the space comes through, and it gives the entire experience a joyous, hand-built vibe. There are more than 20 unique scenes throughout the space to check out, and I won’t spoil them too much – part of the fun is showing up and exploring.

One of the undisputed favorites was the “706” room, a graffito-blasted scene paying homage to hometown pride. There’s a music room, a classroom-themed set, and even a Super Mario area. There really is something to pull a little delight out of anyone, and the entire museum is family friendly. Plus, you can bring along a real camera as well as your phone if you want (though any extra professional photography gear will need to be scheduled as a separate photoshoot).

Photo By Sammie Saxon

“There are many murals and art around our town but this place has given a special home to our LOCAL spotlight of talent,” wrote artist Mike Hodge, who created the crowd favorite“706” scene.

“I hope every person and business will reflect upon the greatness on every wall in the establishment and realize how important it is to display and support local business, local art, and local community awareness. You don’t have to go outta town to get it, trust me it’s all here!”

Photo By Sammie Saxon

Sherricka said she began thinking about the idea back in 2020, and it kept popping back up in conversation with so many different people. Eventually, she got together with two other amazing female entrepreneurs, Francine Foster and Nedra Young, and they decided to give it a shot. So far, the feedback has been phenomenal. One of the most rewarding things is seeing customers having so much fun and leave with photos I know they’ll have for a lifetime.

Photo By Sammie Saxon

“Two little girls came in, and they were like ‘Mommy

can we please come back again?’ People’s faces light up when they walk in. It’s amazing. There has been nothing but good feedback,” she said. “It makes all the labor we put into it worth it.” The Photoshop is open Wednesday through Sunday at 1425 3rd Avenue in Columbus. Reservations are recommended. There are also regular events at the space and a rentable seminar room for lectures, team-building exercises, or any other events, of which more information can be found at thephotoshopga.com.

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