Humboldt Park residents now have a new way to capture family moments and personal milestones without the pressure of a photographer in the room. tokofoto studio, located at 860 N. California Ave., opened its doors in July as a self‑service portrait studio and art gallery. The space lets customers choose a backdrop, set up props, and snap their own photos using a professional camera mounted on a tripod. A staff member is present for assistance but does not interfere, preserving the DIY experience.
Co‑owner Elizabeth Xu, a hobbyist photographer, says the concept grew out of a visit to similar studios in Singapore. “Like a lot of photographers, I actually hate being photographed, so this was one of my favorite photography experiences because I felt really comfortable,” she explained. The studio charges $80 for a 20‑minute session and $150 for a 50‑minute session—significantly less than the $200‑$400 typical price for a traditional portrait photographer.
Community focus and events
Beyond photo shoots, tokofoto aims to serve as a community hub. The front lounge doubles as a mini art gallery showcasing local creators, and the owners plan to rent the space for private events, creator nights, pop‑up cafés and art receptions. “We are really trying to activate the space for events and community gatherings,” Xu said.
Across town, Shoot It Yourself opened a second location at 1846 N. Western Ave. in Logan Square, expanding from its original suburban site in Schiller Park. Founder Anastaciia Belokhvostikova, who first opened the concept in 2024 after seeing similar studios in Russia, chose Logan Square for its central location and easy access for young customers who may not have a car.
The Logan Square studio features a large two‑way mirror that lets groups see themselves while the camera, positioned behind the glass, captures the shot. Sessions start at $200 for 45 minutes, with additional fees for background and color‑editing options. “Many people were asking when there would be a more centralized location,” Belokhvostikova noted, adding that the concept has become easier for people to understand and feel safe using.
Growing trend in Chicago
Both owners say the DIY portrait model, which originated in Asia, is gaining traction in Chicago as social media drives demand for quick, high‑quality images. Since opening, tokofoto has seen a steady stream of customers, ranging from families with pets to expectant mothers and fashion enthusiasts. The studios have also become informal social spaces where strangers meet and share creative ideas.
“People feel safer doing this, and it’s a way for creatives to get photos quick,” Belokhvostikova said. The studios are operating by appointment only, ensuring a controlled environment and personalized service.
With affordable pricing, flexible scheduling and a focus on community engagement, these self‑service portrait studios illustrate how small businesses can adapt to modern content‑creation habits while providing a family‑friendly, faith‑respectful environment for Chicago’s diverse neighborhoods.
Original reporting: Block Club Chicago — read the source article.
