July 4, 2009 in Washington Voices

Class sparked passion that sparked business

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J. BART RAYNIAK photo

Jamie Allbee-Velandra is the manager and main photographer at a photo studio and gallery called Uniquely U Images & Gallery. She offers individual, family and pet portraits, model portfolios and wedding photography.
(Full-size photo)

A high school photography class helped pave the way for one student’s desire to turn her passion into a commercial venture.

Jamie Allbee-Velandra, a 2005 graduate of West Valley High School, says that particular art requirement made all the difference for her at a time when she considered herself “not artistic.”

But after one class, she was hooked on photography. Now she can’t seem to get enough.

“It is so much of a passion of mine that every day I learn and study,” she says, noting that some of her knowledge comes from reading online and through tinkering with her state-of-the-art photography equipment and computer programs. “I feel like I can learn every day. The best way to learn in photography is just do it.”

Allbee-Velandra has honed her craft through experiences including classes, freelance photography and work at department store portrait studios.

Now, the shutterbug who specializes in individual, family and pet portraits, model portfolios and wedding photography is the main photographer and manager of a studio and gallery that also will showcase fine arts and work from other area photographers.

Uniquely U Images & Gallery is scheduled to open this week following a few cosmetic updates and photo equipment installation in a stand-alone building on South Pines Road. The business and property is owned by her parents, Steve and Cheryl Allbee, who also own the adjacent business Custom Transmissions.

The gallery will be open for customers, and photo sessions are by appointment. Prior to the photo session, Allbee-Velandra will ask clients to fill out a questionnaire that will help her provide what they want.

“I want to capture people’s best,” Allbee-Velandra said. “I like to work with want people want, which could include photo albums and books.”

Customers can even bring in personal photos they’ve taken to be made into a book.

For custom photography, Allbee-Velandra charges $35 for a one-hour sitting, with additional fees for groups of more than five people. Standard photo packages range from $40 to $1,000.

She offers standard pictures, black-and-white and sepia photos, collages, canvas and custom posters.

She also plans to join the Valley’s growing monthly art event coined Last Friday, a monthly evening event to promote artists and their work.

Are you opening a new business in the Spokane Valley? Is your business expanding, moving or remodeling? Are you wondering about that new store that has opened in your neighborhood? Send an e-mail to Juli Wasson at juliwasson@gmail.com or contact us by fax at (509) 927-2175 or by writing to Business Notebook, Valley Voice, 13208 E. Sprague Ave., Spokane Valley, WA 99216.

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