SOUTH BEND,Ind.-- After 44 years the owners of Gene’s Camera Store are retiring, and they are passing on the business to new owners Jon Gilchrist and Melaney Miller.

The St. Pierres purchased Gene’s Camera Store in 1989 from its namesake, Eugene Mutzi, who founded the store in 1939 making Gene’s a South Bend institution for over 85 years.

The new owners Jon and Melaney bring extensive experience in photography and their goal is to preserve the store’s reputation for expert service while introducing new ways to give the customers a new experience in today’s photography landscape.

Gene’s new owners plan to introduce new workshops, events and services tailored to both digital and film photographers of all skill levels.

The owners have also made the decision to change the name of Gene’s Camera Store to Gene’s Camera.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony will be taking place on Wednesday Feb 19 at 10:30a.m with Mayor James Mueller officiating and an open house will follow the ceremony until 6:00p.m

For more information visit Gene’s Camera website