Parker’s Photographic has been a cornerstone of Southampton’s photographic community for an impressive 100 years. Founded in 1925, this family-run business has grown steadily, becoming a haven for enthusiasts, professionals, and curious newcomers alike.

Before going any further I want to add this ts NOT an advert or paid post, this has NOTHING to do with anything like that other that me wanting to support and shine a light to independent photography shops and the great work they do, we should always support them if we can.

Over the decades, Parker’s has built a reputation not just for its services and products, but for fostering a connection with photography itself, blending heritage with innovation. From its humble beginnings to its long-standing presence today, it’s a shop steeped in tradition yet forward-thinking in its approach.

When I first started looking for a budget-friendly 35mm film camera to add to my camera bag and pair with my Nikon D5300 (and to this day, I’m still looking for a cheap one), I found myself drawn into the world of independent camera shops. There’s something special about these places that you just don’t get with larger retailers or online marketplaces. They’ve got character, history, and often a genuine passion for photography that shines through everything they do, and I like to support them when I can. My search led me to discover a whole network of independent shops across the UK, each with its own charm and I thought it would be cool to shine a light on them through my humble little site.

There’s a beauty in what independent shops like Parker’s represent. They aren’t just places to buy gear, they’re hubs for creativity, community, and connection so I am more than happy to feature them as my first shop. The more I researched, the more I realised how vital these shops are for both seasoned photographers and newcomers. They keep traditions alive, offer ability you can trust, and foster a love for the craft that feels more human than the click-and-ship experience of online giants. It was that sense of authenticity and dedication that inspired me to launch a new series on my platform called Independent Shop Spotlight. I wanted to shine a light on these incredible businesses, their stories, and the important role they play in keeping our photography community thriving.

Parker’s Photographic stood out as an absolute gem of a shop. From their legacy of 100 years in the business to their thoughtful mix of old-school services like film processing and modern offerings like studio hire, they seemed to embody everything I love about independent camera shops. Even though I’m all the way up in Aberdeen, I could feel their passion through the stories and images and the people I came across. There’s something timeless about shops like Parker’s, they make you want to step inside and just soak up the atmosphere, surrounded by decades of photographic history.

For me, this series is as much about celebrating the craft of photography as it is about supporting these independent businesses. Shops like Parker’s offer more than just products or services; they provide a sense of place and connection in an industry that’s often dominated by the fast-paced, impersonal nature of online shopping. They remind us why we fell in love with photography in the first place, the stories, the people, the joy of creating. Starting this spotlight series with Parker’s feels fitting, not only because of their rich history but because they are what’s still so magical about the independent photography world. If my own search for a 35mm film camera has taught me anything, it’s that these shops deserve all the recognition they can get.

Here’s to their next 100 years of capturing history and inspiring creativity.

Can you share the history of Parker’s Photographic and how it all started?

Parker’s was established in 1925 – our 100th year anniversary this year! It is a family run business that has reached 4th generation if you count the current owners doing some summer work here – owned by 3rd gen currently.

Family tree:

Business begins with Mr Reginald Parker (1)

Mr Reginald Parker (2-son) & his wife Mrs Parker (Mrs Parker sadly died at the end of last year. She never retired from working at the shop running the office) take on the business

Stephen Parker, Son of Reg (2) now runs the shop – 3rd gen

Rachel & Francesca Parker, Stephens daughters (4th gen) have helped out within the shop over summers or as a Saturday job.

There was also a branch shop to provide a second location for drop offs / more limited services around 1969

How has the shop evolved over the years?

I myself am an employee (unrelated to the family) and have been here for 5 years. In that time, I have seen lots of changes and adaptability to the business by the Parkers.

Covid 19 meant a lot of changes had to take place. From staff being furloughed to then working with what restrictions were in place to continue selling online through eBay and eventually setting up a “click & collect” and order online form options to enable us to still take in Lab based film/printing jobs.

Last year we built our own wet darkroom for public hire and lessons. Mr Reginald Parker was able to oversee this and assisted in drafting the blue prints for building/sizing.

The shop has evolved a lot over the years working with demand and finding balance between keeping that traditional old school element but still providing modern day services.

Stephen is good at seeing what works and utilising his staffs skillsets with the services he offers.

We also now offer a wide range of services to help balance across different areas to not have to be reliant on one service all year round.

How does the shop engage with the local photography community?

As we have a smaller team compared to large companies, we are able to provide customers with a more personal service, remembering regulars and what results they want from their order. We can also be more custom to the individual this way. Last year we ran a Pinhole Day event aimed at local photography enthusiasts of all levels and hopefully will be doing more events again in the future. We also try to utilise social media to reach more of our local community. 

Have you noticed any interesting photography trends among your customers?

The amount people used to print has reduced and we believe for a few reasons. 1 Digital files are now preferred especially our younger customers.  2. The cost of living/prices going up people are avoiding non essentials more.

Film developing has stayed with us but has had ups and downs dependant on time of year and again people are reducing costs by shooting/buying less film. Our avid film users have been trying to keep it, and we have had a few new younger generations interested in film much like the resurgence of Vinyl’s.

Demographics has changed too. Photography was at one point a more male dominated industry/hobby, but more women have been taking interest. This does also fluctuate between age groups.

I would also say social media/modern life has influenced ways in which photos are used and given another outlet/reason for taking images for fun vs using one or two rolls of 36exp film in a year of main events / family throughout the year.

What role does eBay play in your business compared to in-store sales?

eBay has played a big part in keeping up sales. It broadens our reach even to some international sales. Over covid 19 this became a very big prop up to the business enabling them to still trade with doors closed. eBay sales do fluctuate so having both in store and online selling points help balance out quieter days. Again, this can be somewhat seasonal when people are out taking photos etc in the sunnier months vs spending more time at home browsing online on a rainy day.

How do you see independent camera shops like yours competing with larger retailers and online stores?

Stephen typically tends to try not to compete. He will consider prices of other shops/business locally but knows not to push his margins to be competitive as it would not be beneficial in the long run. We are looking into adding more options online such as selling from our website directly not just eBay. Stephen also turned to selling mostly second hand camera equipment years ago as buying in new stock was not becoming as profitable for Parker’s to keep up with such fast pace competition. It is more about trying to create a fair price for the work involved and our expenses vs dropping or raising prices because of other businesses. We do also find for some of our specialist services, customers enquire and then come back after researching further of other local stores. As we can do a lot on site people do feel more comfortable trusting us with their priced memories vs having to send away online.

What are your thoughts on the future of film photography?

Film photography still captures a lot of people in a way that digital just can’t. Even now we have young next generations of people still coming in with a sparked interest. I think because of this film will continue for a while longer but not certain for how long. As film is now not as popular as it was before digital the hardest part is finding people with the ability to develop it for you. We ended up having to buy a new colour film processor a few years back that is much more compact than any processor we have had before. There just isn’t the market for the developing machines/ equipment to be mass produced any more so that might be what pushes film out more than people moving away from it completely.

How has the photography retail industry changed in the past 10 years?

Film cameras have become more popular again.

Digital compacts are less popular.

DSLRs have lost traction, and mirrorless cameras have come into market.

What’s your best piece of advice for photographers looking to improve their craft?

Get familiar with your camera and basics of photography like lighting / ISO, Shutter speeds & aperture. Practice! Don’t be afraid of taking a bad photo, its’s by taking shots you don’t like that you learn how to improve your skills. Try different styles/subject matter too as that can make a difference.

Do you get a lot of collectors or enthusiasts visiting specifically for vintage items?

Our customers generally are looking for older camera equipment. As our stock is mostly second hand people come looking for vintage items that are in a good working condition. Some people are just getting started so looking for a cheaper starter DSLR. Some customers aren’t even sure till they come and visit us, so it does depend. I would say once people know we are here and what we offer they then do contact us/ come back looking for more niche items.

If you are looking for some new camera gear, film or are in their area please check them out at the following places: –

• Website – https://www.parkers-photo.com
• Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/parkersphotographic
• Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/parkersphotographic/
• Adress – 9-11 Portsmouth Rd, Woolston, Southampton SO19 9RN.

And remember folks,

Buy Independent,

Regards

Alex