Foto Hércules

How did the place come about and what made it different from the beginning?
Foto Hércules was born when Andrés met Pablo and they shared a dream of owning an analog laboratory and a desire to do things right, transparently. From the beginning, they wanted to take the time to personally attend to clients and answer all their questions, both about the process and the results. They wanted to provide one-on-one attention, always keeping in mind the satisfaction of those who entrust their work to them. Today, they strive to replicate that personalized attention and attention to detail in everything they do, and when they make a mistake, they acknowledge it, communicate it, and work with the client to fix it. 

What part of the day, space, or creative process do those who work here enjoy the most?
Mon: of space, I love developing.

Toral: the group dynamics are what we enjoy most about the space, the conferences or talks we have.

Vera: being surrounded by amazing people is definitely the best part. They keep my curiosity going all the time, including the people I interact with daily who are so attentive. I feel like I've learned so much; now I just need to get over my imposter syndrome, haha. I really enjoy the space; it's super cozy. I love it when it rains and Mon and I make hot drinks together, or when we jam and stalk each other's Spotify accounts, or when Felipe is being extra needy.

Isao: the time after the morning meeting ends is a moment of calm before starting to work.

César: explore new rolls or processes to discover the best way to get the most out of them so you can share it. 

If someone is coming in for the first time, what should they not miss?
Our photographic exhibition is made up of those of us who work at Foto Hércules, or you can say hello to either of our two dogs: Batman and Felipe.

What has been an interesting challenge that has made you rethink something about the project?
The growth we've experienced and how to maintain the same level of service and quality now across two branches has required us to create internal departments and structures to ensure smooth operations. Before, three people did everything. Now, we have fifteen people with different roles and responsibilities. We've had to constantly reinvent ourselves; we never stopped. Nobody teaches you how to set up a lab from scratch.

What influence, idea, or reference continues to shape the way you work today?
We have always strived to be transparent and honest with our clients, ensuring they feel free to ask questions and that they have the confidence to receive assistance. We prepare diligently for this; personalized attention to each client and their individual interests is our top priority.

What place, project, or person has inspired you lately, and why?
Episode 7 of season 2 of The Bear “Forks” inspires us greatly. One of its characters found purpose in giving their best in every little detail because that's what builds a unique experience for the client. That idea resonates with him: no matter how simple the task may seem, doing it to the best of one's ability can change lives. We take every roll of film as an opportunity to demonstrate that good service and care can make all the difference and make every person who trusts us feel special. We are thrilled to be serving the photographers of Mexico. Every day here is the freaking Super Bowl. Every single roll of film you leave with us is our Super Bowl.

If your space could invite someone to collaborate for a day, who would it be and what would you do together?
We love inviting photographers to document the space; we usually invite one each year. We enjoy seeing how different perspectives perceive the space and us. 

Is there an object, corner or detail of the place that has a story that few people know?
Our pink armchair has been with us from the very beginning. Originally, it was part of a lounge area designed to maintain the apartment-like feel of our first location. Over time, we've had to modify the space, and the lounge area is no longer there. It was hard to let it go, but it was to improve our customer service and minimize potential errors. And despite everything, the pink armchair is still here, and always will be. 

If this project were a city, a book, or a record, which would it be and why?
We couldn't be any other city than Mexico City. We come from all over this city and meet every day to work, celebrating this diversity of dynamic contexts. At Foto Hércules, everyone is welcome, and we appreciate receiving rolls of film from every corner of this city and the country. Like Mexico City itself, we are always in constant flux, with many different moving pieces that make us who we are.

We could also be Travelling Without Moving by Jamiroquai. Influences of an old soul, but with a great desire to dance.

Answers by César Camacho, marketing, outreach and analog community at Foto Hércules.