May Business of the Month: The Photo Booth

​A cornerstone of our community’s visual storytelling for a decade, The Photo Booth is so much more than a name—it’s a creative, family-powered hub that brings out the best in Bellefontaine one photo at a time. Owned and operated by local photographer and graphic designer Susie Jarvis (pictured), The Photo Booth is celebrating 10 years of studio success in downtown Bellefontaine and over 20 years in the photography industry.

After graduating with a Graphic Design degree, Susie’s creative journey began in an advertising agency in Pennsylvania. Originally taking photos to avoid purchasing stock images for design work, she discovered a love for photography that evolved into a lifelong passion. Once moving their family to Ohio, Susie began doing freelance design work, but found herself continuing to do more and more photography. Design clients were asking her to take family photos, and she fell in love with working with businesses and families in that way.

The Jarvis family made their way to Bellefontaine in 2012 and Susie saw an opportunity to plant roots, both for her family and her work. She quickly found new clients in the area while continuing to serve long-time Columbus customers. A pivotal moment came in 2015 when Susie had an idea to offer a day of sessions in the winter and was looking for a special space - she then contacted Jason Duff after seeing his number in the Canby building window. Speaking of Jason and his team, Susie boasts about their encouragement and says that their excitement about revitalizing downtown Bellefontaine was contagious. “It felt like the right time and place to be part of something special.”

​A few weeks later, The Photo Booth opened its very first studio in The Marketplace! Susie describes the studio space as “booth-like,” which is part of the motivation for the name. It was also inspired by an antique photo stand that Susie worked at in an Iowa amusement park while she was in college. She recently acquired an 1800s-style replica of the type of camera used at that park, which is now on display in her studio as a piece of photographic history. She’s also the proud owner of a 1974 VW bus named Blossom, which serves as a mobile photo booth and is a well-loved sidekick at many sessions and events. Since then, The Photo Booth has upgraded not once, but twice! You can now find Susie at 137 S. Main Street in Bellefontaine - part of the Historic Opera Block.

​From senior portraits and family photos to business branding, school pictures, sports teams, and even videography, The Photo Booth does it all—and does it with heart. Susie’s annual summer Kids Photography Camp is a favorite for budding shutterbugs, inspiring young creatives to find their visual voice. In addition to standard services, The Photo Booth is a beloved presence at local events including the Easter Eggstravaganza, Pumpkin Walk, and the Downtown Christmas Parade. “I love that these events let families get fun, professional photos for just a small cost,” she said. “It’s about the experience.”

​While she technically doesn’t have employees on payroll, Susie’s studio wouldn’t run without her crew—her husband, sister, and kids. (Their unofficial compensation? Pizza from Six Hundred Downtown after a long day of helping.) Her daughters are key creative collaborators. Katy gladly helps with photography and social media, while Lucy, a film student, contributes her videography talent.

While The Photo Booth might not intentionally chase awards or the spotlight, Susie’s impact is undeniable. Through word-of-mouth, community engagement, and being consistently wonderful to work with, she has built something special. “How you treat people matters,” Susie said. “If people like working with you, they’ll keep coming back and tell others.”

Susie’s wisdom for aspiring business owners? “Don’t wait to be perfect. Start with what you have, stay true to your story, and let your passion guide you.” She reminds us that comparison kills creativity and connection builds success. Although she isn’t currently hiring, Susie welcomes inquiries from those interested in photography or seeking mentorship. She says she loves connecting with others who want to grow in this field.

With 10 years in the downtown studio under her belt, Susie’s not slowing down. Her favorite quote is “What’s your favorite photo? - The one I’m going to take tomorrow.” The future is full of undiscovered smiles, spontaneous moments, and exciting projects yet to unfold. Interested in Susie’s photography? You can check out her website or find her on Facebook. Maybe you’ll be The Photo Booth’s next favorite photo!
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Please join us in congratulating Susie Jarvis and The Photo Booth on being the Logan County Chamber of Commerce May 2025 Business of the Month!
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