Our Story…
Some of the products that I sell were designed back in 1976. At the time they were made by the print shop that Craig Schmidt’s dad owned and operated in Santa Barbara, CA. The matte design was the work of a local artist for Kathy Bloomer, one of the pioneers of the Old Time Photo industry. In 1996 Craig Schmidt (Craig being The Mats Guy 1.0) took over the entire business from Kathy and started making and selling the mattes for Old Time Portrait Studios across the US. In January of 2019, Craig decided to retire and instead of letting these great designs ride off into the California sunset, I picked up the phone and made plans to take over the business from Craig… and our journey starts there…
A Note About Craig…
I hope you’re still reading because this is one of those unauthorized tributes to someone that is truly a craftsman, in the purest sense of the word. I had the pleasure of spending January 10th and 11th 2019 with Craig in his shop. I flew down and we spent two days learning about his product so I could drive away with the continuation of The Mats Guy v2.0. What struck me was his care and attention to making a premium product. The truest form of Craftsman. Craig, I hope to make you proud with the continuation of the hard work and dedication to the craft that you demonstrated to me in your shop. I know your shop is now quiet and you are working on moving into the next chapter of your life but I want you to know I truly appreciate the years of dedication to making my Old Time Studio and the industry as a whole a better place. Your friendship over the years and your hospitality will forever be appreciated! I wish you the very best in retirement and hope to make you proud!
