A new creative studio is set to open in a former surf shop. Customers will get the opportunity to be their own photographer in a private self-shoot studio set to open in September.
Snapp’d Studio is set to opened in the former Flow Surf School Shop in Windsor Road, Saltburn. The self-shoot content studio will be designed to help customers capture professional-quality images in a relaxed, private, and pressure-free environment.
Using a professional camera integrated into a mirror and a simple remote control, visitors can capture unlimited high-quality photographs at their own pace, allowing for genuine moments, natural expressions, and plenty of creativity to shine through, owners say.
Laura McKeown, owner of After Hours Social, explored a similar concept in 2025 (without the mirror concept) and quickly found that the North East was lacking a creative space designed to help people who are self-employed, or simply looking for some refreshed pictures. Joining forces with Katy Gettings, owner of Katy Does Media, the pair have finally put a plan in motion to launch the new studio.
Snapp’d Studio was originally intended to support local entrepreneurs and businesses with their personal branding and social media content but has quickly become what’s about to be a creative hub for everyone in the area.
“We’re so excited to be bringing a fresh concept to the North East. I grew up in Saltburn, and would usually pass Surf Shop on the way to the beach, so for it to be something we’re working on really is a full circle thing for us,” said Laura. “It was the natural next step for our businesses to really come together I think, and to both see the hype for it already and work with some great people behind the scenes is pretty huge. Lots of pressure of course, but I hope everyone welcomes us with open arms and makes some decent use of the space.”
Katy added: “As a photographer who isn’t naturally comfortable being in front of the camera or being told how to pose, the idea behind Snapp’d immediately made sense to me. When Laura approached me with the concept, there was no hesitation.
“There’s no worse feeling than booking a photoshoot, only to get the images back and not like how you look, I’ve been there myself. With Snapp’d, you can see your photos as you take them, which gives you much more control and helps you feel comfortable throughout the experience. We’re creating a space that feels welcoming, creative and accessible, and I’m so excited to see it come to life.”
Snapp’d Studio is aiming to be open at the beginning of September, with a website launch in August.
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