Mentorship and Community
I met Bridgette Makris, the creative force behind Revel Rose Studio, over coffee and schmeared bagels at Wee Bird Café—one of my favorite spots for a fresh, warm start to the day. We chatted for about an hour, exchanging Randolph tales over steaming cups of joe before strolling down to her Merchant’s Row studio. The space, tucked next to People’s Gallery and across from Wit & Grit, True Center Yoga and Massage, and the new restaurant Oak & Iron, is where Bridgette brings her vision to life.
Walking through the studio’s front door, I was struck by the energy of the space—not just the natural light pouring in through its large window but the sense of artistry infused in the corners. And perhaps most profoundly, I could see the traces of mentorship woven into Bridgette’s approach.
A Journey Rooted in Inspiration
Bridgette’s love for photography started young, capturing moments with her mother’s camera and carrying her passion into school, where she was always the one documenting life as it unfolded. “Like many photographers, I’ve been taking pictures my whole life,” she shared. “I always had a camera, always taking pictures just all the time.” But alongside her natural inclination for photography, a guiding influence quietly shaped her perspective—long before she even realized he lived in her own town.
That mentor was Ben DeFlorio.
Before launching Revel Rose Studio, Bridgette was simply taking pictures—of her son, of quiet moments, of fleeting details others might overlook. She posted these snapshots on Flickr, where photographers from around the world share their work and connect. That’s where Ben entered the picture.
“He’s just the best,” she raved, recalling how Ben had unknowingly become her mentor. At first, their exchanges were digital—commenting on each other’s photos, offering advice, and exchanging ideas across a vast distance that, unbeknownst to them, was far closer than they thought.
“I had no idea we lived in the same town. We didn’t even know we were in the same country or state.”
For months, Ben patiently answered Bridgette’s questions about camera settings, editing techniques, and composition—always kind, never condescending. His guidance helped her refine her craft, giving her the confidence to take her photography seriously. It wasn’t until she spotted a mutual friend’s car in one of his photos—parked near what would one day be Revel Rose Studio—that she realized their lives had been intertwined all along.
Building a Business and a Community
That unexpected mentorship became a defining piece of Bridgette’s photography journey. Ben’s soulful approach to capturing moments left an impression on her—one she carries into her own work today. “His soul and his existence. He’s a beautiful human.”
Bridgette’s photography is all about connection—whether she’s working with newborns, families, or couples preparing for their wedding. “I do a lot of work with infants, newborns, families, milestones, extended families, weddings, anniversaries,” she explained. “My clients are the boss. They’re in charge. I meet their needs.”
Though weddings aren’t her favorite type of event to shoot, she embraces the opportunity for creativity. “I love adventurous weddings, like hiking up a mountain. You have your immediate family right there, and it’s this beautiful, great human experience.” That deep appreciation for authenticity is something she shares with Ben—and it’s why she recommends him wholeheartedly. “I recommend Ben all the time.”
A Space That Reflects Her Philosophy
From her studio on Merchant’s Row, Bridgette continues to nurture her craft, always seeking new ways to make each session unique. The location, she says, is part of the magic. “The awesome light—probably 90% of the reason for taking the space is that big beautiful window,” she said with a laugh. “Paul and Gene are great landlords, too!”
That love for community extends beyond the camera lens. Bridgette collaborates with local creatives, including Samantha Gillman of Stone Ridge Pottery and Pete and Amanda Shangraw of Bergamot + Amor in Williamstown, reinforcing her belief in the power of artistic connection.
Photography, she says, is deeply personal, which is why she encourages clients to choose a photographer based on artistic style rather than price. “If you go to Ben expecting a picture to look like mine, you’re going to be disappointed. If you come to me expecting a photo to look like one of Ben’s, you’re going to be disappointed.”
Her philosophy? Photography isn’t just about finding someone with a camera—it’s about finding someone whose vision aligns with yours, someone who can capture the world the way you feel it.
As our conversation wrapped up, I couldn’t help but admire the deep sense of passion and gratitude woven into Bridgette’s story. Revel Rose Studio is more than just a place to take a picture—it’s a testament to the beauty of mentorship, creativity, and the community that makes Randolph special. Go do your thing, Bridgette, and thanks for the coffee!
