It's fine for digital stuff but don't buy or develop film here. The film I've bought has been expired, and above MSRP. The film I've developed here has cost me almost $20 a roll and taken weeks to get back. I've been trying to support a local business by going here despite those things, but it's really not worth it. You can get much cheaper (and non-expired) film online, and you can develop it for half the price and half the time online. read more

Rented a lense from this place and was charged 15% premium for insurance. The filter cracked and was charged $140 to replace the filter. When I asked what the insurance covered that I was charged for I was told it was for paper handling.lol. Renters beware they add insurance just to raise the price of the rental it doesn't provide any protection for damages. read more

District Camera and Imaging - Cracked filter - Photography Stores & Services Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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I cannot say enough positive things about District Camera. It didn't matter if I was renting equipment or buying; these guys were outstanding and patient. They'd talk with me and help me better understand the benefits/differences between certain camera systems and didn't judge me or get frustrated by my indecision and constant bombardment of questions. I'd like to make a special mention of Syed who truly went above and beyond each time I came in for gear. After renting/test driving both the Sony A7sii and the Nikon D850 on various astrophotography shoots, I'm now a proud Nikon owner - and it's all thanks to Syed and the team at District Camera. I can't wait until I have saved up enough to get more gear! read more

I needed a digital photo for one of my Visa apps. The guys at DC inquired about the country I was traveling to and knew exactly what requirements were needed. Knowledgeable, friendly, worked as a team. And quick. I think I found my new passport photos shop. And, if you're a photog, this is the place for you! read more

Excellent visit to District Camera this morning. Ken was excellent as far as his advice and guidance. I got what I needed at a great price with good advice. Their selection was very good and covered a wide range of prices. This is one of the very few stores that I would consider buying used cameras from. It was a 45 minute trip to get there and it was well worth the time I will be back. read more

So I came in today to purchase a few items and initially I didn't feel racially profiled, but as I continued shop and purchase items, there were several things that drew red flags. I was welcomed when I entered and when I asked for what I needed they were very upfront with the price. They offered me the highest price for all of the items that I inquired about. Prior to coming, I had done my research to see what was available, but when I arrived, everything they mentioned was at least $50 -$100 more. I asked for the prices of several items to test my theory and countered with what is presently online. They also seemed a bit shocked that I was able to afford what I needed to purchase. But what really took the cake was when a portly gentleman behind the counter said " You know, people are receiving all of this COVID-19 money and don't know what to do with it." He made the comment as I was about to purchase my items, which to me, seemed to be an insinuation that I was receiving some form of government assistance. I refrained from commenting because I did not want to initiate an altercation, but I am taking the time to write this review. Clearly, there are limited options that provide resources for photographers, etc during this crisis, but if I had somewhere else to go, without a doubt, I wouldn't have spent a dime in there. I will not be returning for any other purchases read more

Wouldn't recommend for film development unless it's an emergency and you don't care about your film

I needed a very time sensitive print of a family poster that could not be done by local copy centers because of the print size. I visited the Burke District Camera store and described what I needed. Ramona recommended and arranged a very high tech photographic approach to reproducing my print that had the best outcome. Larry who os located at the DC shop put it all together and did an amazing job. I am % satisfied and would totally recommend District Camera. read more

This place is awesome. I have an old Pentax K1000 that I hadn't used in years and I took it in to have them check it out and make sure it was still in good condition. They were super fast and nice and also gave me a free lesson on how to use it since it had been so long I forgot. Also developed some rolls very quick. Great service and super affordable too! This will definitely be my go to camera shop in DC. read more

I called for a last minute request and they were able to get the project done for me. Larry helped me out. The quality of the work and speed was incredible . S/o to Larry read more

LOVE THIS STORE!!! I really wanted the fujifilm x-A5, it took me SO LONG to hunt one down to achieve for the weekend. I went to the Burke location and they said they had only one but not in the Burke store in the DC eye at store. ONE LEFT I explained to them how I need it for the weekend ASAP and they requested to hold it for me at the DC store. NOW LET ME TELL YOU for only having ONE left and requesting to hold it for me is amazing, I didn't want to get my hopes up because I know most stores would never do that for people. Especially for a popular item. To my surprise they did! I didn't get off work till 5pm, the store closes at 6pm at the time. I work out in Lorton so you can imagine my stress LOL I was worried I wouldn't make it on time. By then time I arrived at the store it was 5 MINUTES TILL CLOSING so I rushed in and explained I'm the person for the camera on hold! I apologized for being last minute but they al took it EXTREMELY WELL and were so so kind. They even had the time to talk to me about the different warranty plans and how to take care of my camera, I am 100% happy to have my camera and have such a nice experience! Check out this camera quality in able to have thanks to them! SO HAPPY AND IN LOVE I will recommend this place to anyone and everyone! read more

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I ordered a present over the web at 430 on the 23rd for pickup. When I arrived 45 mins later they said a glitch in the system showed it in arlington it was actually in Burke and I could drive over to pick it up. After a few minutes of discussion they realized they could over night it to me to save me the trip. When it shipped at 630 they called to tell me it was on the way. THANK YOU - A big box store would have never done that. Thanks read more

I want to support local DC camera shops - but the manager there forced me to do a 180. As a pro photographer, I bought a led light and a flimsy product box. It was overpriced according to Amazon and of low quality. I assumed they would return it considering it was only a couple of days -Wrong. I had to speak with the manager who claimed 1) he's going to lose money and it was damaged (this was not the case) and 2) he has to keep the lights on! I was quick to inform him that building a relationship with pro photographers outweighed the cost of the 59$ stand, but as with other reviewers opinions he was unconvinced. You would ASSUME the selling advantage of physical photoshops would their customer service and expertise - here, like my grandmother always said - I trust them as far as I could throw them. read more

District Camera and Imaging - Photography Stores & Services Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Warning! Do not trust these people with your film they know nothing!!!!!! Rude and disrespectful to customers. Not professional. Give small business a bad name. As a DC native we sorely need photography stores. It's with great sadness that I write this disappointing review. This store has only contempt for its customers and photography community in DC. I was going to let the scratches on my film and shoddy quality of the development slip by in order to support this small business, but sadly the service is not good and the attitude is disrespectful and insulting. The guy who manages the film is rude and patronizing. I recommend Pro Photo inc. they know more and the quality is better ... and they're not condescending :) read more

So I walked in not knowing a thing about what I needed for a shoot this weekend. Ahmed sold me but he knew what he was talking about. I ended up upgrading my whole camera kit. I took it out today and its by far my best purchase this year. I have a new spot to talk nerd camera stuff. read more

I would give half even no star if i could. I was in and out quick for some film, and have encountered rude staff. He claimed that the 24 exp film(hp5) was 36, in a tone that almost felt like he was talking down to me when I pointed it out. Refused to take card without a chip(which is understandable), while telling me that i should go back to the bank and get a replace. It's totally cool, but then I think he felt challenged so he returned the card in a rude gesture. Also did not provide a receipt. I'm from AZ, where most camera shop employees are nice to one another. It is pathetic that photographers in DC have to deal with this type of people. But hey, if you ever need film just order online where you can find better price and potentially free shipping. read more

Don't bother trading or selling your used equipment to them. They offered less than half the price KEH offered. They were courteous but wasted my time. read more

The worst customer service ever!!! Walked in with fiancé and one employee saw us and didn't greet or ask if we needed help. In comes the white man, and the employee gets up and proceeds to ask the white man if he needs help. Only after he saw me still standing is when he asked me if I needed help. No I don't need your damn help anymore! (Walked our within a few minutes). read more

Film photographers beware. Every time I've gone to pick up my developed negatives, they haven't been able to find them. This is TERRIFYING. They labeled my roll of color film as B&W once, which resulted in lots of delays. You are better off sending film to a lab that actually cares about your photos! read more

One word: Regret. I've heard about District Camera for some time now & they were mixed reviews. I had gone there to just get my 35mm film developed in 2019 & it was not a good experience. Whatever, I didn't really care considering what I had heard & I told myself I wouldn't come back. I recently went back for the same service hoping they would not mess up the same service with two years apart & had a very similar experience. The only difference being that the young man I spoke to the most recent time was actually nice. When it came to picking up the negatives this most recent time, it was awkward having to pretend like I didn't hear them question "Why I would even want these negatives." Pretty much getting them hastily cut & handed to me to which I just left the store. I would go elsewhere :). read more

I went in to check out a used lens I saw online and the two salesmen that helped me were patient with my many questions and very knowledgeable. I decided against the used lens and they were happy to show me other lenses, they even opened up new boxes and let me test drive two options before deciding. This is my second big ticket purchase at District Camera (first at this location) and it certainly will not be my last! read more

Marvin was absolutely fantastic - I'm new to film and Marvin not only answered all of my curious questions, but showed me how to load a roll of film and walked me through the different ISOs of available film for me to try out. He truly made my experience at the store and has encouraged me to continue learning about film. Thanks so much Marvin!! read more

Very kind & helpful staff, quick turn around time. Not sure when they changed their prices--earlier reviews said they got film developed for $10 per roll, but it is now $19. I'm used to paying $10 so $19 is a bit of a shock to my senses, but I guess it's worth it for the speed. read more

I wish I had read the reviews before coming to Embassy Camera. I had a roll of Medium Format film developed and scanned, and they did a terrible job. The quality of the actual scans were OK, but the amount of dust and hair in each frame was completely unacceptable. The entire thing was half-assed. Another issue I have is that they overcharge for film processing. I took in another roll of 35mm processing and I wanted it push-processed 2 stops. They charged me $2 per stop, even though it's no more effort for them to just push the film. Every other lab in the city doesn't charge for push-processing. I'm never going back. read more

I'm done with this store. I've had previous issues with information provided by staff. Trade up events that were extended (that weren't), ability to do returns between stores, and now a price match issue. Stopped by to purchase a Venus Laowa DDreamer 15mm F2 for Sony E mount today. Nice lens. One that Adorama had listed for the same price with an accessory kit. Asked if they would match. Was told yes and then was provided with half the items that Adorama was offering. Was told that since they did not stock the other items that they could not provide, but they'd gladly sell me the item at the same price. I asked if they could do anything better and was told that they didn't have the items. No offer of reducing the price, no offer of anything else except to stare at me and wait for my answer. I said I'll have to leave it here then. Thanked them for their time and exited the store. If you match competitors offers - you need to MATCH the offers. read more

i've been coming to district camera since 2018 (5 years now) to get my film developed, printed and scanned. they've done such a wonderful job doing all of those for me! i buy film here every now and then as well, and will get good recommendations from what they have in stock. the staff is friendly and knowledgeable, as well as extremely helpful. syed always makes great conversation and is very kind! unfortunately they do not develop color-positive film here, but i come to this location to get my black and white and color film done all the time. i've also bought a camera from this location and it's great! i would highly recommend this location for their service, their speedy film development time, the great location (7 minute walk from metro center), and many more things. keep up the great work! read more

I am so glad I found the card for these guys! I have been wanting to write a stellar review for them ever since I left DC. It was June when I discovered this photo gem in the District (after searching frantically for a place that still developed film... I used to always go to MotoPhoto in Union Station, they closed), and I had a very precious roll of film. I have been told by many people that taking your film into the airport under the x-ray could possible zap it to death (others disagree, but I was not willing to take any chances).... so I knew I had to get these pics developed before heading home... AND FAST! I told them the roll was priceless pictures of a loved one who had passed, and I was worried about having it developed @ a place like CVS, even tho I know they could have it done in an hour. I was flying home the next day, and was crazy busy.... They were very sweet and soothing. The made me feel safe that the pictures would turn out perfect. They did. I am sad to think that film is a dying art... It really is not nearly the same as digital at all.... There is a unexplainable beauty to getting back a roll of pics that you cannot Photo shop or edit to perfection... If you are in the DC Area, and still as about film as I am, GO HERE. Well priced, exceptional service and careful with your priceless photos. Two thumbs way up. read more

I had many scratched negatives before finding Embassy Camera. Now I don't go anywhere else! The men here are professional, friendly, gentlemanly, and super helpful. Their professionalism and friendliness is the main reason I go here. You can tell that they get to know their customers and call everyone by name and are more than willing to assist the aspiring photographer. They have a limited amount of camera/photo equipment for sale - few cameras and lenses, a lot of camera bags, and a lot of frames. The prices are reasonable, and they'll do everything from putting things on CD to printing, enlarging, etc. I've never had a developing or printing problem there, and they do rush orders if you need. It's also very close to Dupont, which is convenient. Minus one star because I wish they had more equipment for sale! read more

You would think that with brick and mortar stores struggling compared to online shopping, these guys would be more helpful and service oriented. read more

You know how every time you're in the market for a new gadget - say a digital camera or picture frame - you face the moral dilemma of supporting the nice, knowledgeable old guys at the neighborhood store or paying a much better price at Wal-Sam's-Best Buy-whatever? Problem solved: Embassy Camera! Nice old guys AND good prices. OK, OK - you'll probably get a better deal on Amazon for really high-end stuff. I once bought a pair of binoculars here for $60 (work in tall office building across the street; like spying; am probably in bushes outside your house right now; hello there). I easily could have gotten $30 knockoff specs with the same power online. But you'd be hard-pressed to find a better rate on prints, which they do speedily and which you can upload from your computer. Frames are neck-and-neck with Ikea on pricing but MUCH better quality. You can develop your super-hipster Holga film here (pretty much the same thing as a Diana+, you "lomography"-loving faker), or really anything analogue or digital. And yeah, they take some sexy passport photos. Love it. read more

I came all the way from San Francisco for a trip. I had noticed that I left my camera at my house. I needed a camera and district camera was the best match I could find. It offers amazing service and the owner Eldar was amazing. I highly recommend this place to anybody wanting a camera. read more

Embassy Camera earned my business! Today I arrived in panic mode needing a workaround solution to some proprietary lighting equipment that I bought for an upcoming shoot. Anthony Glover, the extremely friendly and helpful clerk, listened and worked with me until we found a solution that saved the day, and at an affordable price. Very patient and genuinely interested in assisting my needs. While its a tiny shop, and this often busy store is worth the wait. They know their stuff. I hope locals will continue to support it with business so that it too does not fold due to the economy. read more

Excellent service - try them out if in the DC area and looking for a VISA photo. They seem to know photo requirements for VISAs of different countries since they are surrounded by many embassies. I was in a hurry and a bit nervous when I got there, I was praying they don't mess up the photo requirements. As soon as I walked in, they asked me which VISA I was applying for. I told them and all they said was: "we got it". I did not have to tell them what the requirements were. Pictures came out perfect. There is a 10 to 20 minute wait before pictures are ready. read more

I came in to rent an EOS R, sensor cleaning for my Sony A7II and to develop film. I highly recommend them as the best camera store by far. They were very quick and accommodating. Incredible service by Bob Ross and also Syed! They were very friendly and get to know their customers on a personal basis. intend to be a loyal customer. read more

To all photographers out there! I want to give a HUGE shout out to District Camera for the BEST customer service I have ever experienced. WOWOWOWOWOWOW! If you need anything photography related, go there. Amazing that this still exists. read more

*Bad experience renting equipment, bad customer service If you rent gear here double check their paperwork. The salesman tried to pull a fast one on me and charge me a 7day price. When challenged the manager was pretty rude. It's too bad for them, I am about to buy a new camera. I imagine they would have enjoyed that $$$ read more

These guys helped me out a bunch with an eBay purchase gone wrong. They inspected a malfunctioning lens and wrote up some official-looking documentation about it, which will (I hope) help me get a refund out of the seller. They did not charge for this service. I also really appreciate having a lab that can still do 120 C41 within walking distance of my house. You guys rock! read more

Overall, I've had a positive experience with their Burke (VA) store. True, District Camera is a bit pricier than other stores but their service and their recommendations have always been excellent. Some of the comments I've read here complain that Amazon or other online prices are much lower in price, but then again those are not brick-and-mortar (physical store locations) and as such they have much lower costs. Also and unlike District Camera, many online stores use a drop shipping company to fulfill a sale, so they're not keeping an on-site inventory and therefore their overhead expenses are minute. Others are not "Authorized Dealers" of the equipment manufacturers and as such they source and obtain their products outside the U.S. for much less and offer them at a discount so they're cheaper, but the tradeoff is that the warranties for those items are not honored in the the USA read more

I wanted to return a used grip 2 weeks after the purchase, they told me that (1) there will be a 15% restocking fee (2) I can only return it to the Burke store and not their other locations. Seriously, in the age of amazon ... restocking fee ? never going back... adorama/B&H all the way. read more

I went to this store to develop 2 rolls of film. Now I have been getting film developed for over 6 years now and there were a few things I noticed about the store that was very different than any other place I have gotten film developed. Firstly, you pay for your prints when you drop off your film. Why am I paying for something that I haven't even received yet? They also acted like it was outlandish when I asked for 5x7 prints. I've always gotten 5x7 prints so I know that this is not an uncommon request. Also when I dropped off my film no one told me that it is extra for a CD. I picked up my prints and to my surprise there was no CD. This place charges $10 per roll for a CD or to email you the photos. So to develop 2 rolls of film and get 4x6 prints and them emailed, it ran me about $60. read more