An inspiring photo retailing concept by Fujifilm that originated in Tokyo, Japan will appear at The Digital Show in Melbourne from October 16-18. Badged the Wonder Photo Shop, the initiative is a one stop boutique-style store where customers can bring to life smartphone photos by printing and crafting their own distinctive works of art.
Fujifilm Australia said it will launch all categories, including a host of direct printing concepts from smartphones. With the help of instant photography, customers are able to access photos straight away and turn their prints into personalised pieces of art by decorating and framing them. The extensive range of craft cards, scrapbooks, frames, washi tape (masking tape) and stickers have been designed in Australia to complement the Australasian market.
As a drawcard for customers, each Wonder Photo Shop entrance will feature a Theming Table that corresponds with up-to-the-minute events.
Targeting millenials, in particular, the Wonder Photo Shop concept is described as part store, part print centre and part workshop environment.
Each shop will include a Wonder Print Station where customers can connect their phone to a kiosk (or insert a memory card) enabling them to print photos instantly using a choice of different templates. Alternatively, photos can be printed via an App once downloaded onto a smartphone.
In addition to photo paper, customers will be able to print on various materials such as glass, metal, canvas and stickers.
With casual tables set up in-store, friends are able to enjoy a social vibe where they can create their own personalised scrapbooking projects and albums. Instax products and accessories will also be available.
Some Wonder Photo Shops will include a Selfie Studio complete with professional lighting, props and a green screen background. To replicate a selfie-style photo, customers are provided with a remote to press once they are ready to capture the occasion.
Fujifilm Australia COO, Dave Marshall, said while the digital era has enabled consumers to store soft copies of photos on electronic devices, printed photos are more likely to outlive the technology.
“The Wonder Photo Shop concept aims to encourage young people to print photos from smartphones in a fun and creative environment to ensure they have a printed record of their photo memories down the track.
“Wonder Photo Shops may even help bring out the inner artist in customers by providing a comprehensive gifting experience that evolves around producing works of art, gifts and décor using smartphone-generated photography,” Marshall said.