After decades of chasing stories as a photojournalist for the world’s leading newspapers, Sam Hodgson decided it was time for a new challenge.

As a freelance photojournalist covering the nation for The New York Times, Sam learned how to make images that resonated with readers. As Director of Photography and Video for The San Diego Union-Tribune, he learned how to weave those images seamlessly through websites, print products, newsletters and social media to ensure stories connected with the right audiences.

He founded Uptown 11 Studios in 2024 to help community-minded organizations spread their own news on their own platforms, ensuring the stories reach ever-growing, highly-engaged and targeted audiences.

Filling a void

We're a more visual world than ever before, but the space to actually sit down and deconstruct a photographer's work and their intentions is growing slimmer by the day. We saw an opportunity to fill a community need by telling stories about San Diego through the eyes of local photographers who develop their work at Safelight Labs.

Igniting a community

By featuring the photographers' work, we're directly engaging and elevating Safelight's core audience, while simultaneously creating an avenue for new admirers and customers to become acquainted with Safelight's brand through the work of its existing community.

Keeping on track

We manage Developing Stories with a dedicated reporter covering the beat and keep the team updated using sophisticated project management tools. We coordinate everything with Safelight's social media team so that we share the product seamlessly to the public.

Our Services

Case Studies

About Uptown 11

Subscribe to our newsletter

The latest news, articles, and resources, sent to your inbox weekly.