Our History

A&I came into being when photographer David Alexander joined forces with lab manager/master technician James Ishihara to create a lab whose quality would set it apart from the rest of the pack. David recalls, “I suggested we go into business and do it the right way - which was to get the highest quality lab going, first for myself and then later, as we grew, for clients. So we built a lab in a room the size of a broom closet and went from there.”

Meanwhile, in 1971, Isgo and his wife Anoush started Isgo Lepejian Custom Photo Lab in a 500 sq. foot shack in Burbank, California. Isgo’s amazing talent for black and white fine art prints soon gave him a large and loyal following by some of the most important photographers in Los Angeles.

The two Lepejian sons, Baret and Vic, both decided to follow in their father’s footsteps at a very young age. At fourteen years old, Baret began black and white printing in his own style while being constantly inspired and carefully taught by Isgo. Vic came into the business in 1988 as a self-taught computer genius with a vision of a digital future that was a decade before it’s time. Over the years, the small family business matured into one of the most well reputed labs in the nation.

In July of 2004, Baret and Vic Lepejian acquired ownership of A&I. It was turbulent times in the industry; film was noticeably tapering off and local labs were struggling with finding digital solutions. But, with a 30 year history in the industry, the family was up to the task.

A&I now celebrates several huge accomplishments, including the renovation of and move to the original A&I Hollywood location on Highland, a complete remodel and new full digital department in Santa Monica. Throughout the moving, construction and transition, A&I has upheld their commitment to maintain the impeccable quality that David and “Ish” established as the best from the very beginning.

Today, the A&I client base includes renowned celebrity, fashion, stock, editorial, advertising, nature, portrait, wedding and fine art photographers, as well as students and photographic artists whose work defies categorization. With three Southern California locations and a national clientele, A&I earns new customers daily by delivering on its commitment to provide consistently superior services and personalized attention.

The A&I Difference

A&I remains passionate about catering to the ever-changing needs of photographers – whether professional, amateur or student. "A&I helps professionals and industry leaders by being a full-service team,” says owner Baret Lepejian. “We work personally to consult with photographers and a range of institutions, whether they be a small, private elementary school or the world’s leading stock photo agency. We discuss, find and meet the particular needs of our clients by assuring the best, most efficient and most cost effective services. We pride ourselves in the range and quality of our digital services, while still maintaining the best film processing and traditional printing available. Clients worldwide entrust us by uploading their digital files or shipping their film to A&I.