Calumet Photographic closes its US stores

After 75 years of business, Calumet photographic stores in the U.S. have shut their doors.

The closed Calumet Photographic store in San Francisco, California

After 75 years of business, Calumet photographic stores in the U.S. have shut their doors. Early reports say that employees went into work today only to find the doors locked with a note stating the closure. Employees apparently weren’t even able to collect their belongings left in the store. The website, Twitter feed and phone lines are no longer in operation.

In the lighting world, Calumet is known for being behind the Genesis series of flashes and studio lights.

Calumet filed for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy, which is a liquidation of assets. However their remaining European stores will stay open. There has been no explanation as to why Calumet filed for bankruptcy other than they had $0–50,000 in assets and $1–10 million in liabilities. Former employees have taken to airing their grievances on the Glass Door careers web site.

The closed Calumet Photographic store in San Francisco, California
The closed Calumet Photographic store in San Francisco, California

It’s always a sad day when a photography shop closes, with loss of jobs and services. I wish the people of Calumet the best.

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Ricardo Gomez
Ricardo Gomez is a photographer based in New York City who specializes in fashion and portrait photography.
ricardogomezphotography.com