Incredible experience. I left camera west with an absolutely clear idea of what camera is best for me

Reached out on the phone with some questions. Ash was very helpful and I followed up with an email. She did here research and responded quite promptly. Although we didn't do a transaction, I appreciated the attitude. read more

This is just one of those businesses you don't find very often anymore. The people who work here are passionate and deeply knowledgeable about all things photography related, and generous with their time and expertise. I went in to get an appraisal of my Hasselblad camera for insurance, and had the pleasure of talking with Tom and Norman about cameras. They did an appraisal for me, and when I asked how much I owed them, they graciously declined payment. In a time when it's so common to go online to buy things like cameras, this is a store where paying sales tax (which most of the major online dealers collect now, anyway) is absolutely worth it for the expertise and support this store provides. Their prices are competitive, and they have a great selection of high quality, carefully inspected used gear as well. I didn't even know it was here until recently, but now that I know, Camera West will be my go-to for future purchases. I can't recommend them highly enough. read more

Camera West - Photography Stores & Services Near Me - Walnut Creek, California

I was in the area and took a chance to ask about a very rare Leica 240 battery. We were immediately greeted by super friendly and accommodating staff who asked how they could assist us. When I explained I was looking for a spare, even a used one, they surprised me. They had a used one in stock and were kind enough to simply give it to me. Exceptional service! Having bought my Leicas from this store, I can confirm the customer service has remained stellar--it's just as good now as it was then. read more

Never will I buy from Camera West again. Beware shipping of defective equipment forcing a return so they can charge a restocking fee claiming everything is tested and working fine once you shipped it back. Also don't expect good communication. You will always be the one reaching out especially once they know there is a problem with your order. There are plenty of other good resellers out there, don't get burned like me.... read more

Camera West and their sister Leica San Francisco are high end camera dealers, and generally excellent and knowledgeable. I've bought, let me see... Well, several M bodies, lenses, and Leica TL gear. Pretty happy. The only thing that has been a concern is that I believe they could inspect their used lenses a bit better. Recommended, but do your due diligence. read more

Camera West - Photography Stores & Services Near Me - Walnut Creek, California

Spent over $600 for 2 items. After 30 days neither order shows as Processed (only order Received). Emailed their Sales asking for a status update on the order and just kept getting the same generic answer that I would be receiving an Email after the order shipped. After I reminded them that Law states they're obligated to Email me a offer to cancel without their 25% restocking fee, Sales at Plumbingoverstock.com quit answering any Emails. I'm still waiting for an Email confirming that the items have been shipped and status still stuck on Order Received (no change from day 1). Their Terms & Conditions state there's a 50% fee for cancelling via contesting the payment via your payment method. What a scam! This business should be closed down by the BBB. read more

I don't normally write reviews but I feel inclined to do so because of the frustration I feel. I had been put on a waitlist for a camera for about 4 months- called every week to check for stock. Finally got a call that there was one to transfer. Was given a date and told that the tracking number was given. I follow up on the discussed date of arrival and hear nothing so I check in again. Finally I get a call to say that my camera never was transferred? I'm not sure if they lied from the beginning or gave my camera away to another customer. It upsets me because I feel like there was a lot of dishonest things leading up to them saying sorry and not telling me the truth. So my point in writing this is if you're putting your trust and hope in getting the camera you're searching for I hope this is not your story also. read more

Very professional staff great selection of new and used high end equipment. Trade in equipment is given fair price

I have to give a shout out to Devyn at Camera West. I went to see them in hopes I could get a better understanding of my grand fathers camera and Devyn took the time to go over the camera with me, answered all my questions and explained to me the pros and cons of using the camera going forward. He is extremely knowledgeable and a really nice guy. I will be going to Camera West for all my photo needs from now on. Thanks Devyn. read more

A very welcoming well lit shop. The person who spoke to me was to the point and actually helpful. They are super knowledgeable, will help bring clarity with all things Leica especially. I wanted to get some advice on buying an M4, and they walked me through pros and cons compared to a few other models, helped me make sense of why the market prices certain models more. Overall helped me understand what I was paying for, if I decided to get it. read more

Camera West - Photo essays: incredible work by incredible artists. - Photography Stores & Services Near Me - Walnut Creek, California

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Did a blind buy and ordered a fujifilm from this store and I was pleased with how seamless the transaction was when picking it up. Great service and the selection of gear at the Walnut Creek location was also excellent. read more

This is a pretty cool camera shop that also sells Leica cameras. I went in to buy a Pentax K1000 with a 50mm f2 lens. Devin helped me get the lens shipped over and was super helpful in assisting me making sure the camera was good. Since the lens wasn't in stock, they placed the camera on hold for me. I came back two weeks later and Devin wasn't there this time but Christian was able to help me out. After checking out the K1000 with 50mm lens mounted, we noticed that the light meter wasn't working so I passed on getting it. Christian was able to help me find another SLR and we landed on the Nikon F2 paired with a 50mm f1.4. I wasn't too familiar with this platform so he showed me how to operate it. Super happy with my purchase and experience communicating with Christian and Devin. read more

Amazing service! They had great prices for cameras (especially used ones) and they employees were so helpful. We were able to handle the cameras that we were looking to buy after they brought out ones they thought were good for my necessities. Also gave me a free camera bag! read more

Everyone at Camera West WC is truly passionate about photography and you can tell. Tom is the Leica OG and Ash and Devyn are so easy to work with, they are such cool people. I needed my camera repaired and it was so easy to drop it off here to have them send it off to Leica, it was a no brainer. They even gave me a good trade-in value on some old gear I had laying around to fund a new lens for the camera I was getting repaired. If you're serious about photography, don't bother with big box stores and come here. The staff here know what's up read more

Just found this place in Walnut Creek they have an amazing showroom floor. Why I want to give this place 5 stars is the service Devyn gave us. This guy was very professional helping us with all our needs and questions. If you need a professional camera man with great advice come here and see Devyn!!!! read more

Camera West - Entering the store - Photography Stores & Services Near Me - Walnut Creek, California

The service here is great. I just bought my first DSLR (I used to shoot film decades ago) and they have been very helpful to me. They carry pretty much anything that you would need for digital or film. read more

Today I had a wonderful experience at Camera West. It's been a while since I've written a review for this store, so I thought I'd post an update. I needed a replacement ball head and Steven helped me find the perfect one for my needs taking into consideration what I shoot and what equipment I have. He spent a nice amount of time explaining the different ball heads so I could make an informed decision; and in the end I felt very confident with my purchase. The entire time I felt like my business mattered to him and that's one of the main reasons I like to support my local businesses rather than purchasing things online. Thank you for a great experience and I'm sure I'll be back soon! read more

This review is a shoutout to Devyn! He helped us the first time we went there and every time we go in there we get greeted by him. We love to go in a browse the used Sony gear. We have bought 2 used lenses and they have served us well so far! You can't go wrong with saving a couple hundred $$$ on well conditioned gear. I've had my eye on a certain item and we will continue to browse until they have it. I love recommending this place to fellow photographers! read more

Shipping was fine. The return process not so fine. I returned the item unused in the box I receive. Then.... I get an email saying the item was used and not in the original box. I was offered a small discount but, with no follow up. Live and learn. read more

Had a delightful experience in the store Friday speaking with Ash and Tom for a bit about Leica and Hasselblad. They were both super helpful and so generous with their time..just lovely people. They actually encouraged me to wander around the store with the M11-P and a lens and just take some photos of different things. Generous, kind, and super knowledgable, I had a wonderful experience and this is definitely my new camera haunt. My gear will come from them whenever possible. read more

Bought my Canon R5 here in Feb 2022. Devin was the guy who contacted me and said it was available ( after being on their waiting list for a bit). Got to say he is really great person to work with. Friendly, knowledgeble on the Canon products, and always very helpful. He recently contacted me about some additional items I was waiting for so going in again today. Camera West like everyone said is a one of the best camera places in the Bay area ( have been to a ton of them). The number of used nikon, canon and other gear is really impressive too. And of course their Leica store / section is very very impressive. I have to say try them first before going anywhere else!! They will get you the needed gear read more

I worked with Sean and Tom on getting my dream Leica. They are super knowledgeable and professional. I highly recommend Camera West for all camera needs. read more

I had a seriously good experience yesterday when I traded my Leica camera equipment for a new Nikon set-up at Camera West. Tom (Britcha) started helping me on the phone Saturday and then in-person on Monday afternoon. The trade-in was good (which was surprising) and the help I received from Tom and Nick was first class. Similarly, the price of my new gear was equivalent to online (less in some cases) - but the help and shopping local was WELL WORTH IT! Not least because there were some technical nuances I didn't get initially. Shopping on line for high-end camera gear (see ebay currently) can carry significant risk. If you have not been to the store then I recommend that you take a visit. It's a huge toyshop with some VERY expensive and super-cool toys :) read more

Great service from the staff. Lots of camera gear to buy, I definitely recommend them.

First off let me say that I absolutely love this place! I originally came in looking to upgrade an aging Canon 60d. The staff here was incredibly helpful knowing that I was a beginner. They helped me choose the best camera for my needs within my price range. They also buy your used gear and apply that to your purchase. I left extremely happy with a brand new Canon 80d. Emily was extremely helpful in making sure I had everything I needed. Shortly after I came back to find a backpack that would fit my growing collection of camera gear. Hal and Emily both helped me find the perfect field bag that fit all my lenses and my laptop. After purchasing the new body, it was time to purchase new glass. I mainly shoot track days for cars and needed something with a long range and something crisp. Emily recommended the 70-200 2.8l and a 16-35 2.8l for close ups. Both have performed absolutely amazing. I was able to trade my old 24mm and 18-200 lenses to get the two new L lenses for a better price! Today I finally took the plunge and purchased a 5d mkiii from their used case. It's in immaculate condition and I got it for an amazing price! This place is without a doubt the best camera shop! I look forward to working with their amazing staff on all my camera needs! read more

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Update as of late 2022: Bought a few pieces of gear through them open box, and I have nothing but amazing things to say. I got great deals on some Canon RF and EF gear, $500 off for what was essentially an open box high end RF lens and a really good EF 70-200 f/2.8L for a good $150 under what I could find it for anywhere else. They're still serving me really well at my job, and I've since moved to Southern California (but too far from the Rancho Cucamonga store...) -- there's nothing like Camera West down here. Samy's just isn't the same. Camera West is where I will forever go for photography gear. I miss you guys. read more

I am a proud owner of the Fujinon XF80mm F2.8 Macro Lens thanks to Tom at Camera West in Walnut Creek. Tom was so helpful, patiently answered all of my questions and even provided guidance on a few sample shots that I shared on my phone. I have always loved the art of photography, and used to say "someday I'll learn..." Well, a sudden burst in free time due to COVID granted me the opportunity to start my journey...This is a new hobby and with COVID restrictions, I haven't had the opportunity to take classes so I am learning on Youtube! To be able to get feedback and advice from a professional is a gift I never thought I would get while paying for a lens! Thank you, Tom @ Camera West, for the gear and the time. Looking forward to more visits as I continue to develop my skills, and build my lens collection. read more

Stumbled across this store when walking around downtown a couple of weeks ago with my boyfriend. We ended up walking out with some film for his camera and bought another film camera for my brother all from the help of Nick. He is amazing!! He is so easy to talk to, he didn't hover down our necks like other retailers, and was very knowledgeable. Fast forward to today, we came back, but brought along my brother and my cousin. Nick remembered us and helped us out again. Walked out with another film camera!! He is so helpful and was kind enough to throw in some accessories. We're sending a few other friends over too :) read more

I went in there to purchase a Sony 85mm f/1.4 GM lens. It was a good price. It was listed at 9+ condition and functions as intended. I had Hal working with me. I noticed the lens making sounds when it was focusing from something far to near. It was making a squeaking noise every once in awhile. I asked is this normal, Hal tells me it is totally normal and tells me that it is from the movement of the glass elements. I decided to get the lens since i am doing more portraits than i used to do now. I love how creamy the out of focus blur is. I get home and test it more, the squeaking is now more pronounced. Since i am a Sony Imaging Pro Member, i sent it over to Sony to service it. They have fixed it and the squeaking noise is completely gone and it is now smooth as it transitions from close to far and vice versa. I am actually surprised that this was listed and rated at a 9+ with that issue. It seems that they did not bother to test the lens when they got it. It's also bad that Hal believes the squeakiness is normal. I even asked around and was told by other photographers it should not make that noise at all. So, I take it he was just wanting to make the sale. read more

My husband and I went in to see about replacing my dear, beloved 22 year old Leica binoculars that had been stolen in the break-in of our vehicle. (Yes. I know. They shouldn't have been in there! But we were way out in the county!) Needless to day I was devastated. Tom Britcha helped us. He could not have been more knowledgeable about the binoculars, or more kind and compassionate. He let me try out the demo pair as long as I wanted and ordered up a fresh pair from the San Francisco store. I was grateful for his assistance and can't recommend him more. I came in near in tears and left with a smile. I also love going in to this beautiful store to see what photos are on display in its own little fine art photo gallery. It's always a treat! read more

Was this a store or gallery? As I was pondering this Hal rushed over to ask if he could help me. He showed me the camera I wanted to see but hung there like a guard and answered my questions in a quick, clipped way that conveyed impatience. He showed me a couple more cameras in the same way. My questions were met with brusque explanations and then complete quiet as he waited for me to hand over the camera. Luckily, there was an experienced customer waiting nearby and she was very easygoing with information. They have a good selection of mirrorless cameras and I would return if I knew exactly which to buy. But I'm not going to feel comfortable learning about which to buy there so I probably won't return. read more

The manager Steven Foon is the best. If he doesn't have it on the floor he will go in the back and check for other options that are available. He didn't say no until he searched and asked everyone. read more

I just purchased my second camera here, I can't thank the Camera West crew enough. Arnold and Steven were so knowledgeable and helpful, best customer service ever. If you are looking for a good camera store, this is the place! read more

Camera West - I just picked up this Leica CL. - Photography Stores & Services Near Me - Walnut Creek, California

Devyn L, from Camera West, was knowledgeable and super nice. My wife and I spent a lot of time chatting with Devyn about Leica cameras, and we felt no pressure to buy anything. I enjoyed my experience at the store, and I look forward to coming back to buy some nice gear. read more

Didn't even realize the shop was here despite living in Walnut Creek for over two years. Really cool place full of used gear, super friendly staff, and lots of Canon, Nikon, and Leica stuff. A lot of the used equipment is in ridiculously good shape. I shoot with Canon, so this place is perfectly suited for me. I'm a former professional photographer and they have just about every service you need, from lens microadjustment, sensor cleaning, and custom orders. read more

I'm a long time customer of Camera West. From those early days to the present I've always received great service. The salespeople always listen to me and provided excellent advice. I have never felt pressured or over sold. After making a purchase I was never pushed to buy unneeded accessories. They give the same level of attention whether you are buying new or used gear. Trade ins are welcome and fair. After purchase support has always been first rate as well. Recently I put my name on a list for a newly introduced, highly sought after camera. No deposit or up front purchase was required. I had it in my hands before almost all other stores had delivery. Everything mentioned above contributes to the fact that I purchase my camera gear from Camera West instead of an online retailer. The small amount you pay in sales tax is more than made up in face to face service and support. Ever get offered a cup of coffee from an online store? read more

I like this store, they have a surprisingly good selection of camera bags to choose from and to take a look at including Billingham, Peak Design and ONA. I bought a nice Billingham bag here. One oddity however was that they had it priced wrong! Even their own website had it priced less than in the store. When I brought this up, the staff seemed very confused and a few of them had to sort of run around trying to figure it out. They even tried to argue that the website states the price as starting 'from:' but that doesn't mean it's the actual price. I then informed them as politely as possible (although I was starting to get really annoyed) that I was able to add the bag to my cart on their website and check out at the website price. Further, I knew the in-store price was way inflated because it was even over the suggested retail price for the bag... In the end, they honored their own website price, which was the right thing to do, but not without some annoyance to me. Although the price was still a bit more than a mailorder place like B&H, I knew this coming here and was willing to pay slightly more to support a local business and also to be able to check out the bag in person prior to purchase. Note, the same owners own the Leica Store in San Francisco. read more

Best helpful and knowledgeable camera store around. If you care about quality and professionalism this is the best place to go.

In my visits to Camera West, the most disappointing thing was that my favorite selections of Jelly Belly candies were already picked over - and that's not even a legitimate complaint! Yes, there was a spoon - no finger-diving into the bowl and I'm kind of a germaphobe, but was still tempted. This is a truly boutique camera destination spot where you will never be rushed, always greeted with a polite inquiry as to how the staff can be of assistance to YOU. Each time I've been here, customers are greeted warmly, and often by name and a handshake. The space has a very Zen feel: high ceilings, all the gear is lovingly displayed and and whatever your heart & eyes desire to get a feel for...Comes out of the case immediately. Want to throw a lens onto a camera body? Done. And they'll happily clean the lens without prompting. Is that some fog or a scratch on that vintage Leica? Even if you're a pro and supremely in the know, the kind staff will give you an honest answer and as much time as you need. I like spacing of the different departments as discretion and privacy about a pro project may be the subject of discussion, though on several visits, spontaneous and convivial conversations ensued, along with smiles and handshakes. Okay, ROSEANN M. - you have a great CV. I'm also a woman who works in a field where statistically, there are more men at the level that requires my expertise. Whenever I'm out shopping for knives, firearms, souped-up European cars and am given polite deference, I smile, make eye contact and state what I want. Seriously, low blows, pouting and throwing around a single star for this stellar place benefits no one. It's fine to be famous, but defamatory reviews, not so much. Hal is a great guy - all the staff are. They share a collective sense of humor and at the same time are absolute experts in their respective fields, infinitely patient, prompt to accommodate a rush order, and happy to advise based upon each patron's individual needs. When you're making a Leicalicious purchase or need a rush on that Nikon D800, the professionals here will make sure you're never over over-sold or under-informed, whether you're fresh out of Art School, a serious amateur, or professional. During one experience, another customer came in and all of the stations were occupied. Dan, the MAN...ager ; D materialized from the back office inside of 30 seconds. They're ON IT. The browsing chairs are comfy and not crowded together. I'm a bit of a voyeur, and I notice details - like, a patron popping in to pick up a purchase, or merely to ask a question, talk shop, or give an update on where they are in a deep, juicy project. Truly, all are welcome to do so, but the staff are so passionate and experienced, I can see how one might get lost in the technical aspects if you haven't passed a certain mile marker. Cost for gear is entirely dependent upon the assignment, project, hobby or collection, ergo highly variable. FYI: my favorite flavors of Jelly Belly candies are banana/chocolate and chocolate pudding. See you guys soon! Madly, The Hattrix read more