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Published on January 16, 2025
Staten Island's New Creative Haven, Remi Studio Opens Offering Photography and Podcasting in Historic VenueSource: Google Street View

In a blend of nostalgia and novelty, Staten Island native Amanda "Remi" Lee Domenech has opened a new photo studio, Remi Studio, in a building that has a storied past as a movie theater and skating rink. Located at 217 Main St., the venue that once hosted vaudeville and Christmas shows in the 1920s and acted as a community touchpoint for decades has found new life in the hands of Domenech, who envisions it as a hub for creative professionals. According to a SILive.com article, this venture comes after Domenech, 35, cultivated a successful photography career that began with sharing her work on early social media platforms.

Domenech told SILive.com, "One day, I woke up and decided to create the space I’d always dreamed of photographing in." The choice to open in Staten Island was made to eschew the inconveniences of working off-island including, costly tolls, and limited studio availability in Manhattan and Brooklyn. The studio offers a range of services including professional photo sessions, podcasting facilities and rentals to other photographers and content creators. Emphasizing the importance of customer experience, Domenech said that her studio aims to provide a sense of calm and confidence to clients during their photography sessions.

Tapping into the Tottenville scene, Remi Studio proudly sits at a crossroads where local history meets vibrant urban life. Providing a prime space for photographers and clients alike, the studio is positioned to capitalize on Tottenville's unique character. Echoing this sentiment, the studio's promotional blog, Remi Studio's website, highlights the area's mix of urban and suburban vibes, presenting it as an advantageous location for diverse photography projects.

Detailing the amenities offered, the studio boasts features such as natural lighting through floor-to-ceiling windows, lighting equipment, and a cell-phone tripod for capturing behind-the-scenes footage. Moreover, Remi Studio prides itself on its ability to accommodate last-minute bookings, ensuring that clients’ plans remain unhampered by unpredictable weather, “If you’re tired of your photo sessions getting rescheduled due to the weather, having a dry indoor space with plenty of natural light is going to be your best friend,” as stated on Remi Studio's blog. The versatility and functionality of the space reflect Domenech's philosophy of creating tailored experiences, not only through her own work but also enabling other creatives to do the same.

Domenech's studio looks to be a beacon for the creative community in Staten Island, drawing on its rich history while pivoting towards innovative enterprises. Aspiring to uplift and support photographers, content creators, and the community as a whole, Remi Studio opens its doors with a message of creativity and collaboration. “My favorite part of the job is connecting with people on a deeper level... By the end of a session, I’m their biggest fan," Domenech told SILive.com. With its multifaceted appeal, the studio invites Staten Island and beyond to engage in creative endeavors within its historically rich walls.