An unfortunate and seemingly helpless situation mitigated, solved and expedited by Jason at 60 Minute Photo.
It was super last minute, but we had to get a large photo printed and framed in two days.
We initially searched for Black's photography, and quickly realized that all (or vast majority) of the locations had shuttered and closed down.
The closest photography print shop we could find was 60 Minute Photo at Yonge & Eglinton.
We walked in with a USB key loaded with some photos, needing to have one printed large (11x14) to fit into a frame (16x20).
Jason helped us and offered the hospitality he offers everyone else - warm, helpful, calm and honest.
Upon inspecting the photos we had brought him, he informed us that the photos are too small in file size and resolution to print at decent quality, in the size we wanted.
We said "go for it, and let's hope for the best." We really hoped it would be good enough but Jason's reaction wasn't very convincing - he was just being honest. He then proceeded, to his best effort, to edit the photo options and Boost the DPI so that it might help create a better finished product.
We took home the result, seeking and needing approval from another family member. The photo options were disapproved as they were pixelated and washed out.
The next morning, we rush back to see Jason at the shop (right as he opened). At this point, we only had hours until we needed this photo situation to be resolved.
Jason sensed we were distraught and panicked, then asked what this photo was for.
I was there with my cousin, and he explained that he needed a printed photo to be displayed at his mother's funeral viewing and service later that day and weekend.
My cousin and I didn't have much time to work with, but at this point, Jason made it clear and known to us that he was going to make this work in the little time allotted - he gave us confidence and reassurance. Jason told us to leave us with options and come back in a half hour.
We get back and the store is packed with other customers with varying needs and wants, but as soon as we're there, Jason hospitably offers his services and expedites our order.
After sifting through our files and options, he printed out (in few minutes time) a few photos in different sizes (at no charge) and showed us that if we went with a smaller photo, the quality would skyrocket exponentially.
My cousin and I unanimously decided to go with a smaller photo, but we didn't have time to go purchase a new frame or mat elsewhere.
Jason stepped up and hand cut for us a custom mat (on the spot!) to fit the smaller photo into the frame we had and sent us on our way, wishing us the best.
Jason had gone above and beyond in his hospitality and his service to us and our family. We can't thank him enough and I'm sure his regular customers understand how selflessly helpful he is.
As someone who works in the hospitality industry, I've felt that Toronto can be a cold place sometimes for a customer.
Jason is a beacon of hope in our city and proves that warm, genuine hospitality is still out there.
Thank you Jason!
Be good to each other out there!
- Marty read more