Our story

78 years and counting

The Camera Shop’s journey began in 1947 when Russell Roe opened its doors in downtown Saint Cloud. After two decades, in 1967, Russell passed the torch to his son-in-law and daughter, Harry and Susan Stanius, as he retired. The business quickly adapted to technological changes, adding color film processing and a "six-hour service" in 1968. By the early '70s, Frank Ringsmuth joined the team, starting part-time and eventually becoming the photo lab manager in 1975.

Throughout the decades, The Camera Shop kept pace with the evolving photo industry. In 1982, it embraced Kodak’s new disc film, followed by significant investments in faster photo processing technology. In 1987, the business expanded with a new location across from the Crossroad Center Target.

The turn of the millennium saw The Camera Shop at the forefront of digital imaging, installing Saint Cloud’s first digital photofinishing printer in 2000, followed by even more advanced models in 2002 and 2008. In 2012, Frank Ringsmuth took full ownership of the business and added a digital press printer, allowing for innovative two-sided print products.

The Camera Shop’s journey continued to evolve, and in 2019, the company made the decision to consolidate its operations. The Crossroads location closed, and all services were moved to the downtown Saint Cloud store, streamlining the business and refocusing on its core location.

As the years have gone by, the world has changed, but the core of our business has remained the same. As new technologies continue to shape our industry, The Camera Shop remains committed to adapting and serving the Saint Cloud community for years to come.