Gene’s Photo Studio, located in downtown Mineola, is officially closed.

According to posts by the business, Gene’s Photo Studio has been in business under various names since the late 1940s, and the building has been in the Bright family since “the early ‘60s.” The Gene’s Photo Studio website says that they are the oldest family-owned business in downtown Mineola.

Gary Bright, current owner and son of the Gene for whom the business is named, says that the decision to “semi-retire” and sell the building has not always been an easy one.

“It has been bittersweet, but I feel I am making the right decision. Thank you for all your support,” writes Bright.

2025 marks 50 years that Bright himself has been in business. The official Facebook post announcing Bright’s “semi-retirement” is accompanied by more than 100 well-wishes.

The building has been sold, and will shortly house a hair salon.