A huge shoutout to the team at Harrison Cameras, Sheffield’s one-shop-stop for all your photography needs, who celebrated hitting 50 years of business last month.
The family-run London Road store was first opened by founder Ron Harrison in 1972. After quickly building up a loyal customer base, Ron called on his family to assist in the day-to-day running of the store, which saw his wife, parents and son, Glyn Harrison, mucking in and becoming part of the furniture at the store.
After leaving school at 18, Glyn was made a director of the company and continued to work in the store helping his father grow the business. They moved premises a couple of times but always remained on the same stretch of London Road, arriving at their current address of 112-114 London Road in 2001.
With the drive of Glyn, Alison and Michael Beckingham (who recently took over from Glyn as managing director) the company continued to thrive. Dedicated staff and a commitment to customer service has seen the company get through the last few years while continuing to develop and grow despite difficult challenges facing independent retail businesses. They celebrated reaching the half-century milestone by hosting a series of in-store events, competitions, talks and workshops, including a photowalk with renowned photographer Sean Tucker.
And what of the future? Despite retirement Glyn still has a keen interest in the family business and believes that the current team will continue to drive the company forward into the future.
“It is quite incredible to think that the company thrives in 2022, especially given the challenges of the last few years. Without doubt, our early commitment to online sales driven by Alison and Michael was one of the best decisions made to date. Online sales will become an ever more important arm of the business. However, there will always be demand for personal service, the ability to handle and inspect equipment and receive excellent unbiased advice face to face. I foresee the shop playing an important role in the future, although the retailing experience is bound to change in the coming years, and the company will certainly adapt to meet these challenges.”
Q+A with Glyn Harrison
What has been the secret to reaching 50?
50 years in the retail industry is a great achievement. Independence and dedication to customer service has been the main driving force. Setting up the website early and transferring our high level of customer service online is something I’m proud of.
What sort of photography trends have you seen come and go over the years?
The rapid transfer to digital imaging has been the greatest shift. Something that surprises and pleases me has been the gradual upsurge in interest for traditional film-based photography. I see the same analogue products being sold in volume that were being sold 50 years ago!
What tips would you give to any aspiring photographers out there?
Aspiring photographers should plug away and have confidence in their abilities. So my advice is be patient, and don’t give up.
What’s the best piece of photography advice you’ve personally received?
Buy the best equipment you can afford and decent secondhand equipment that can be upcycled.
What’s your favourite product in store?
High-quality compact binoculars. They are the best compromise for nature viewing, with no excuse for not slipping them in your pocket while on the go – be it a walk in the countryside or even on safari!
Harrison Cameras is home to South Yorkshire’s largest secondhand selection and film developing lab. Find them at:
112-114 London Road
0114 2859854
