Hank’s was founded by Steve Rifkin, who began printing photographs in the mid-1970s with the opening of 220 Print on Fifth Avenue in New York City. Working closely with artists of the time, Steve developed a deep understanding of the relationship between image, material, and process, as well as the collaborative nature of the photographer–printer relationship. During this period, he worked with leading photographers, including Robert Mapplethorpe, helping establish a foundation rooted in craftsmanship and precision.

In the late 1980s, Steve relocated the operation to Minneapolis to expand the lab’s capabilities during a pivotal period in contemporary photography. There, he continued to refine his approach to printing while building a reputation for technical excellence and an ability to translate an artist’s vision into a finished print.

In 2004, Hank’s returned to New York City to be closer to its core community of photographers, galleries, and institutions. Since then, the lab has continued to produce exhibition-quality photographic prints and support a wide range of photographic projects, from individual works to complete editions and archives.

For nearly 50 years, Steve Rifkin and his team have worked with many of the world’s most respected photographers. Their work is represented in museums and galleries worldwide.

Central to Hank’s approach is a commitment to collaboration. Steve developed a unique ability to understand the artist’s vision and carry it through to the final print with precision and care. The goal remains the same: to produce prints that fully realize the image while meeting the highest technical and archival standards.

A partial list of clients conveys the reputation and trust we have earned over the course of Four+ decades in the industry: