Blink is eyeing retail expansion thanks to new financing.
Billed as a "photo shoot studio experience,” blink combines a bricks-and-mortar studio experience with real-time digital photography technology. The start-up company, which recently closed on a $3.6 million Series A round of funding, recently opened a location at Fashion Island, in Newport Beach, Calif., with another at Westfield Topanga, Canoga Park, Calif., this fall. The company opened its pilot location, at Corte Madera Mall, Corte Madera Town Center, Calif., about two years ago, and also has a store at Valley Fair, Santa Clara, Calif.
Designed as an experiential photography studio that inspires creativity and self-expression, Blink employs proprietary technology that makes it easy for consumers to book shoots and buy images online via their computer or mobile device at the company’s site. The “Blink experience” consists of a 10-minute (or longer) shoot with a professional photographer. The result of each shoot is a collection of hundreds of photographs that consumers (and businesses) can view, buy and share instantly via Blink’s website.
"Photo studios have been around for more than one hundred years but at Blink Inc. we are taking a new approach by delivering a streamlined studio experience and real-time photo delivery technology that enables instant customer interaction, purchasing and sharing,” said Tristan Davison, CEO and founder of Blink Inc. “With our ambitious expansion plan, we have our sights set on bringing professional, beautiful and affordable photography to everyone.”
The pricing at Blink varies, with shoots starting at $25. Images can be purchased a la carte for just $10 each or in packages.
“We are excited to have Blink Inc’s real-time photography concept at Fashion Island,” said Easther Liu, chief marketing officer for Irvine Company Retail Properties. “Whether you’re an aspiring blogger who wants editorial-quality photos, to a corporate executive looking for headshots or an engaged or expecting couple who wants stylish portraits, Blink Inc is perfect for anyone looking for sleek, professional images.”
Blink was founded by Tristan Davison, an award-winning photographer with more than 20 years experience shooting advertising and marketing campaigns for global consumer brands. His vision for Blink Inc is to bring beautiful photography to the masses.