Colorfoto’s 40-Year Journey in Photography: From Family Business to Industry Leader
As we prepare for an exciting edition of Way Up North in Lisbon, we are thrilled to welcome Colorfoto as a first-time sponsor. With a rich history rooted in the photography community since 1983, Colorfoto embodies the passion and innovation that resonate with our event’s mission. Founded by two brothers, Carlos and José Manuel, Colorfoto has grown into a leading provider of photographic equipment and services in Portugal. Their commitment to supporting photographers aligns perfectly with our goal of fostering a vibrant community of creatives. In this interview, we delve into Colorfoto’s inspiring journey, their adaptation to industry changes, and their ongoing dedication to empowering photographers across the country. Let’s go!
How did Colorfoto begin its journey in the photography world, and what inspired the founding brothers to start the business in 1983?
As the question suggests, Colorfoto is a family business founded by two brothers, Carlos and José Manuel. Carlos, the eldest, entered the world of photography at an early age. At 13, he convinced his family to let him study at night so he could work during the day at “Casa Carrasco”, an emblematic photography shop in Lisbon’s center.
During his youth, he was a photographer and did work in both photography and video, as he was an amateur Super 8 filmmaker. His love for photography and his interest in equipment and gear, combined with his charisma and communication skills, made him a coveted salesman for various photography shops in Lisbon.
José Manuel, who grew up separated from Carlos for most of their childhood, was sent to Lisbon in 1979 to study Law. Up to that point, José had no knowledge of photography, but he always wanted to have a business of his own and was eager to do that next to his brother. Inspired by Carlos’ enthusiasm for photography, José challenged him to start a new adventure.
Three years later, the two combined efforts and funds to rent a shop so tiny they couldn’t open a Manfrotto Triman inside. That’s how Colorfoto was born.
What has been the most significant change in the professional photography industry that Colorfoto has witnessed over the past 40 years?
Unsurprisingly, the first big one was the shift from analog to digital format. Prompted by Carlos and José Manuel’s shared love for new technologies, they were very excited about this innovation and saw it as an opportunity from the start. In fact, Colorfoto was the first store investing and selling digital cameras in Portugal. In 1998, we introduced the Sinar Digital Backs in the Portuguese market, and in 2003, the first digital cameras, such as the Kodak DCS Pro 14N.
We soon understood that our industry had to adapt, photographers had to reinvent their workflow, and shops had to follow the demand. And so, we jumped on that train as soon as we had the chance.
The second major change was the introduction of cameras on cellphones. Camera sales dropped dramatically, and suddenly there was no mass market for photography. For over a decade, the entire photography industry had to readjust to professional photographers, as they were the only ones buying cameras.
Ironically, the object that once threatened this industry is now reactivating it. With the growth of social media and digital outlets, the need to produce quality imagery has been reignited. Amateurs and professionals alike are now seeking photographic equipment to keep up in this new era.
With two flagship stores in Lisbon and Porto, how does Colorfoto maintain its connection with photographers and videographers across Portugal?
This presence is built up on various layers. Naturally, our physical shops are a fantastic showcase for attracting customers and fostering personal relationships with those who visit us. In addition, we have a strong online presence through our website and social media, where we try to replicate digitally the services we provide in-store. This means our developers keep colorfoto.pt always up-to-date.
We provide follow-up by phone, email, and social media chats, so that our customers always feel reassured and informed. Finally, we aim to be as dynamic as possible, with a portion of our sales team regularly visiting potential or existing customers.
Can you tell us more about the specialized services Colorfoto offers to photographers, such as the photo lab and studio planning services?
These are two distinct areas that are equally relevant to our company. Colorfoto Lab has preserved techniques and processes that are increasingly difficult to find, such as analog printing. We use Fujifilm Professional Paper for analog printing, delivering exquisite detail, color, and durability while preserving the unique textures of film. For larger formats, our lab provides Fine Art Papers using Epson jet printers, certified by the Digigraphie by Epson label.
Studio planning services are part of Colorfoto’s B2B solutions. We provide turnkey solutions for all types of companies and professionals, advising, supplying, implementing, and training our clients. This sets us apart from our competitors.
Colorfoto’s team is known for its expertise. How do you ensure your staff stays knowledgeable about the latest technology and trends in the industry?
Our team is eager to learn and share knowledge. Both of our founders were self-taught, acquiring their learning on the field or by sharing expertise with customers and partners. That sense of curiosity and resourcefulness prevails, and we seek those qualities when hiring. Our partners also play a major role, providing regular training online and on-site.
The Colorfoto Academy plays a big role in educating photographers. What kind of events and workshops does it offer, and who are they geared toward?
The academy works on several axes. First, we invest in photographers and videographers using our platform, strengthening our relationship with them and reaffirming their value in the market. We also endorse a sense of community by hosting workshops, masterclasses, and talks, building a valuable network. Lastly, these activities help introduce new products, some of which are highly technical, allowing users to improve their workflows.
What does the future hold for Colorfoto, and how do you plan to continue supporting and inspiring the photography community for years to come?
We are aware of the speed at which technology evolves and its impact on the sector. Our commitment is to continue educating our team and community, investing in professionals, and cementing relationships with our partners. That’s what we did on that tiny shop in Areeiro 41 years ago, and that’s what we intend to do for the next 41 years.
