For Justin Kruse, vintage technology is more than a hobby. It’s a connection to the past and, in some ways, an antidote to modern life.
“I have always loved vintage things,” Kruse said. “I think it really stems back to my parents, especially my dad. He enjoyed photography and was a musician, so I always had access to records, reel-to-reel players and things like that. My parents also enjoyed antiques, and we were always going to antique stores. I actually started shooting film when I was younger. I am technically from the film era.”
Photography eventually gave way to dreams of becoming a professional musician, then years later, a vintage fountain pen brought him back to the analog world.
“I got one and fell in love with how it writes,” Kruse said. “Physically writing things really is huge. It helps your cognitive memory and everything. That then led to typewriters, which I always felt were super cool but never owned. So I bought a 1912 Underwood No. 4, learned how to clean it up and get it back in working shape. Then my passion for those old machines took off as well.”
Film photography followed soon after.
“About three years ago, I started seeing people on YouTube shoot film,” Kruse said. “I thought, man, I remember shooting film, I want to try that again. So I bought a Yashica FX-2. After the first roll, I was hooked. It’s such a different experience. It is intentional. It makes you slow down and take stock of what you are doing. Nothing like the modern approach of just getting the shot and fixing it on the computer later. You are really making something and putting your heart and soul into it.”
What began with developing film in a bathroom grew into a full darkroom.
“I started with black and white, then moved on to color,” Kruse said. “I was just using a dark bag and developing in the house’s bathroom. But I have since built a full darkroom. It has just blossomed into something I am so passionate about.”
Kruse said the appeal goes beyond nostalgia.
“Using these old tools just really connects me to our past and our ancestors,” Kruse said. “I feel it every time I hold a vintage pen, or camera, or sit down behind a typewriter. Each typewriter from a different era has a different feel. I always say each typewriter has a soul, and you can connect with it.”
He believes many people are searching for that same connection.
“It really seems like people in professions that use computers all day are coming home and just want to digitally detox,” Kruse said. “So many of my fountain pen friends, typewriter enthusiasts and photographers find that the tactile nature just really grounds them. As humans, I think we are wired for the tangible and tactile nature of things. We crave that.”
Kruse also sees a growing appreciation for imperfections.
“With the rise of AI, more and more people aren’t wanting professionally digital photos that look perfect anymore because they look like AI-generated photos,” Kruse said. “They want something real and tangible. As we move farther into a digital world, things are starting to move backward. In a world of seeking perfection, imperfection just feels more real.”
Today, Kruse operates both Kruse Photography and Heritage Film Lab, offering digital and film photography, film processing and other services.
“Film is where my passion lies; I treat every roll of film as if it were my own,” Kruse said. “I pride myself on getting the best possible image for my customer. I’ve had customers who found old film of their parents or grandparents and want to see what’s on it. If you have mystery rolls and want to get them developed, I can do that for you.”
Kruse offers portrait photography, events, sports, and more. Through his film lab he offers developing services for 35mm and medium-format film, color and black and white, as well as slides. He offers print services, film for sale, and film cameras for sale that he has serviced.
“I am trying to offer a wide variety of items for the film enthusiast,” Kruse said. “I will also be offering developing classes and possibly print classes in the future, so be on the lookout for that.”
For those curious about film, typewriters or other vintage pursuits, Kruse has simple advice.
“I just want people to try the old ways at least once,” Kruse said. “They might find they absolutely love it. The experience in and of itself is worth it.”
For more information about Kruse Photography and Heritage Film Lab, visit www.krusephoto.com or Kruse Photography and Heritage Film Lab on Facebook, or call or text Kruse at 903-394-7176.