I love Fireside camera! They are so helpful. I always go when I have a camera question and I always feel like I am getting good, honest advice. read more

I recently upgraded my old-school EOS-1 canon for a new digital body. The team of salespeople were very helpful. They understood my need to preserve all my lenses and didn't push me into the EOS digital. I walked out with a rebel (much better price) and have been very satisfied with the camera. Extremely knowledgeable and patient team. No hard selling. Fair price. Thank you! Very happy to support our local businesses! : ) A+ read more

while on Vacation in San Francisco on our first day the foam windscreen from my Sennheiser needed to be replace. Fireside Camera was the closest store to my hotel and I am glad it was. They were extreamly helpful. Planning on stopping back next April for items I would like to add to my camera bag even though I could buy them online I will wait and buy them at Fireside read more

This is the greatest camera and developing store! I brought in a few different versions of my holiday card photo and they were nice enough to let me keep running trials until I found the perfect crop and coloring...and then they didn't even charge me for my annoying DOZEN trial prints! There were 3 or 4 people working there- all funny, kind, and helpful. They did my 70 prints in about 5 minutes and fed my doggy treats while I waited. Nearly every person who entered the store was a regular customer and was greeted by their first name. It is a nice atmosphere and they know all! It was a great experience and I highly recommend them. read more

The guys at Fireside rock! They know cameras, they know photography, they are patient, and customer service is 100% perfect! I've bought three cameras from them and wouldn't think to go anywhere else. They are really nice guys, too! I parked in front of their store and walked a block down to my nail appointment. Realizing I would not get back to my car before the 1-hour meter ran out, I called and asked them to load up the meter.. and they did! Thanks Fireside! read more

I found out about this place on Monday, 4/11/2011. I had been dealing with the mail-order places prior, but I got weary of waiting half or all day for UPS to deliver. I was looking for a Tokina 12-24mm F/4 and they had it for $9 cheaper than the mail order place i had been dealing. Yes, there is sales tax, but much of that would have gone towards faster UPS delivery. So after learning they had the lens and what the price was I went there. Was an enjoyable visit. I got the lens and a polarizing filter. Next day I went back. Picked up the wired and wireless remotes for my Canon T3i and also a spare battery. The new battery, as is usually the case, had a decent charge while mine was almost drained. Told them I was going to get some pizza and they offered to charge my battery, which I accepted. Mighty nice of them. On my return I talked to them about some bags and they made some recommendations. Told them I wanted to research a bit. No problem or attitude from them. Returned today with my camera and 3 lenses to re-check the bags after confirming they were good choices. They actually pulled some from the wall and together we were arranging and re-arranging my lenses to determine which would be the best fit. This was a good 10 minute affair. Ended up getting the ideal bag. Next I told them the polarizer I got (was recommended by one of them - don't have the names down yet) caused vignetting on my 12-24 due to the extreme wide angle. No problem. I bought the bag and a lens hood. It came to a little less than the cost of the polarizer. They gave me the change in cash, even though I used a card to buy the polarizer. There is a subtle sense of humor here, and some very strong knowledge. It was fun to talk old film camera history and tech with them (I started photography in the 60's). Today when I came in, the first thing I heard was "Look, Michael's back!" Anytime I need some new gear this is the place I am going. Very close to where I live, great selection of items and they let me check things out for myself. Prices on some small peripherals like memory cards can be higher, but compared to places like Best Buy or the big mail-order houses, prices on bodies, lenses, etc. are equal to or a titch lower. Sweet! read more

I just purchased a Canon Rebel with an extra telephoto lens, as well as lens covers and cases. The price was the same as advertised by Best Buy, which was a surprise. I was prepared to pay somewhat more for the consulting and service. The store salesperson was extremely helpful and guided me through the purchase. Since I live in the neighborhood, it will be convenient to stop at the store if I have any questions about operating the camera. read more

I could not recommend fireside more. I was leaving on vacation and was having trouble with my camera and fireside not only solved my issues or me but fixed all my settings and were so helpful. The service is great, easy location and overall I had such a great experience here. read more

Fireside Camera is, without a doubt, the best camera store in SF. Every one of the staff is knowledgeable, helpful, fun to deal with and will not hard sell or push a product without good reason. Authorized dealers for Nikon, Canon and Leica to name a few. A must stop for any camera buff. read more

Good friendly, informative, easygoing staff. Good collection of lenses....loved this shop.

This shop is awesome. Staff is amazingly knowledgeable without being pompous and snooty to people that may have some extra questions about new gear. I came here set on one lens, and ended up saving money and buying a different one thanks to the honest opinion of the staff. They aren't there to just take your money, they want to find the right product that is just right for you. Thanks guys! I will be back again I'm sure read more

I needed to pop in and pick up some film for an instant camera. I showed them my camera, they grabbed the film for me and off I went. An easy and smooth transaction with a very friendly employee. read more

I'm torn on how to rate this place. First of all I'm not sure how they stay in business, I hardly ever see anyone in there. Secondly- Why is everyone who works at camera shops kind of freaky? Freaky in a weird socially inept kind of way. Not sure how to describe it. If you need to pick up a little point and shoot digital camera and you don't mind paying a premium then this might be your stop. 35mm film? Yes, they have a limited selection of 35mm films. Medium format film? In the past I was able to pick up 120mm film here when desperate but you only had like 2 choices. Now I don't think they carry any medium format films. Need your film processed? They send the film out somewhere (not sure who is doing it for them) and get it back a couple of days later. I tried giving them some film just to have processed and proofed and my negatives came back scratched- Ruined. Thanks guys! I really don't like this place much at all but I have to say I needed an odd size circular polarizing filter once and they actually had one in the store. Probably just old inventory from the film camera days but it did save me that day. You're probably better off just ordering whatever it is that you need from Calumet or even going into the San Francisco Calumet retail store. Avoid that Gasser's dump at all costs. read more

Super nice people and they go out their way to make sure you get what you need...I won't go anywhere else to buy my gear...

Cameras for me and daughter in law and granddaughter. Wish there did developing, but the gang is wonderful! Ed Lee (not the current Mayor)!

Went back to Fireside as planned to purchase a new Canon DSLR. As always, Tyler was great to do business with. I am confident in my buying decision due to the knowledgeable customer service and personal attention customers receive at Fireside Camera. Leaving soon on my next adventure knowing I have high quality camera equipment & can run by Fireside at the last minute if I need anything or have a question about my new camera. Fireside Camera is the best! read more

I'm a long-time customer and fan of these guys. Some points in their favor: 1) Ed, Jack, and Spencer who work there all know cameras and lenses backwards and forwards, and stay current with the latest in digital technology. 2) They're almost the last independently owned neighborhood camera shop. The guys who worked there got together and bought the place when the former owners retired. 3) They carry everything from point-and-shoot to high-end professional gear. 4) Their prices are competitive. They can't match 47th-St Photo's deep discounts, but they can meet or beat Calumet and any other street-level dealer in SF. True, some of the personalities behind the counter at Fireside may be ideosyncratic, but I personally find that endearing. read more

Fireside has kept me waiting for over 6 months now to receive my Sony a6300 that they sent off for a repair to Sony (I declined the repair cost and the camera was supposed to be sent back), with no solution or way to work out the missing camera. They are plenty nice people but have left a customer (who has since moved from SF) hanging, because they can't work out an issue with one of their vendors. This should have been resolved as soon as they knew the situation was bad, even if it meant a small financial loss to them, to do right by a customer. I've asked this of them on numerous occasions, having to be the one to follow up periodically, and have been left with unsatisfactory answers. They just continue to ask me to wait...They were quick to sell me another camera when I brought mine in for the repair, but paralysis on an issue like this, that wouldn't cost them much to resolve, is reason enough to look elsewhere for a camera shop. read more

I was taking my family out around SF when my DSLR battery died. I called Fireside to see if they happened to have any charged batteries readily available. They offered to charge a battery for me before I came, and they even offered to use a used battery, which saved me money! So happy I called them and was able to take pictures for the day! read more

I have been buying cameras and doing film processing here for 20 years, and they are the best. The sales people actually know about cameras and film and taking pictures, and they are exactly as geeky as I want them to be, like a good sales person in a computer store. If you want Banana Republic types, go to Banana Republic. They will match online prices and give you good service as the cherry on top. read more

My dad and I went into Fireside today and Tyler was super patient, talking us through our options. In the end, we decided to stick with my current Nikon and lenses, and only bought memory cards. Even though we didn't make a big purchase, Tyler was kind and informative and couldn't have been more helpful. read more

so I just ordered a new lense from b&h and the rear lense cap would NOT come off. it was on there too tight. it like ripped the skin off my fingers... bad bad bad. this place is right by my work and I thought I would take it in and see if there was something wrong and after alittle work from the very charming guys behind the counter they got the thing off! and they did this for no cost and were super sweet, understanding and professional. if any of my cameras have issues or if I need accessories, film etc I'll come here for the exceptional customer service and friendly atmosphere. read more

This is a really decent little neighborhood camera store. Not only are the sales staff friendly and knowledgeable about the stuff they carry, they have a surprisingly good selection. I think I am most impressed that they are Leica dealers in addition to carrying a current selection of digicam stuff. read more

I came in to Fireside Camera a couple of years ago to purchase my first DSLR camera. I knew nothing about digital photography. On my first visit to the store, I asked for a 10-minute primer on digital cameras because I had to run out to catch a bus. The employee treated me seriously. He didn't scoff at the amount of time I provided him, and he gave me the exact information I needed to go home and do further research on the internet. I came back a week later and asked to see a couple of cameras I was considering. The employee inquired as to what type of camera I was seeking and what type of photography I like to do. I responded that I was looking for a professional camera even though I am a point-and-shoot photographer. Again, the employee treated me very seriously. He didn't roll his eyes or treat me like I was dumb or change his professional tone of voice or anything like that. He was extremely accommodating and provided me with excellent information and customer service. I was impressed with his professionalism. I ended up purchasing a Canon Mark III 5D, and I've been very happy with the purchase. I've returned to the store several times since then to make additional purchases. I recommend Fireside Camera for all of your photographic needs. read more

i randomly walked into this store after searching high and low for a place that would take the right passport photo for me. For a non American passport I needed a light blue background. I brought in light blue paper and these guys were very patient figuring out the setting to the the picture just right. read more

This is a small shop and they don't carry a lot of things I'm looking for, like certain lenses or films. However, they are often able to get "hot," difficult-to-find cameras in stock. For that, I give them five stars. Thanks to this store, I've been able to get back into photography this year with some top-notch gear. read more

I came in today to purchase my first DSLR camera, specifically the Cannon 7D which is discontinued but they had a used one on hand with two lenses including the one I specifically needed to shoot my portfolio. The staff was very helpful answering my questions and informing me about how to use the camera properly and things to be cautious of. I was allowed to shoot with the camera and make sure it was a good fit. I believe Ed handled my purchase and he was so patient with me and made sure I had everything I needed or wanted and no pressure on the things I wasn't sure about yet. He took the time to set up my camera strap to fit me just right. I got a great deal compared to what I was seeing online and was able to get a few accessories I really wanted since I saved on the camera and lenses. I would recommend Fireside Camera for the wide range of new and used inventory, product knowledge, price, and customer service. read more

I wanted to buy both a camera and a camcorder and did not like the service at Best Buys and they really didn't like you actually handling and testing their cameras and I didn't want to buy it online as I did want to try it out. Fireside had a nice selection of cameras and even though they were quite busy on a Saturday, they were very helpful. They let us try them out, even go outside and take a few pictures. We ended up spending less then we were planning to and got a great deal on a close-out camcorder. I;m sure we could have saved $100.00 going on line, but it was worth the money for the care and attention and good advice. read more

I had an issue with my Rebel T3i and these guys helped me figure out what was going on. They were incredibly friendly and helpful. I will be back and look forward to joining them on one of their photography walks! read more

These guys are great! I'm a local photographer and have come in several times w/questions about lenses, cameras, etc. and they've all been happy to help. I bring my camera in for cleaning and they do a terrific job. It's a treat to have an independent, conveniently located camera store w/knowledgeable employees. read more

These guys are so helpful- I go for all of my camera needs and they solve all of my wacky camera issues. So glad they are in the hood.

Ed is a great guy to work with. I brought in a bag full of all sorts of equipment plus a list of items I thought I should buy and a ton of questions. He was helpful, patient, explanatory, and conscious of my budget. I went back a couple of days later with more questions and he was just as helpful and patient. It was a great experience in every way. read more

Fireside Camera is the "go to" place for anything camera. On at least two occasions--the most recent one was on Saturday--I went in for information and was more than satisfied. My camera's memory card did not function in a couple of print stations, and I could find no info in the instruction book or online. Fireside Camera people had the answers! I have purchased cameras at Fireside and their knowledge, trouble-shooting abilities, and personable service is top-notch. Thank goodness for face-to-face expertise. read more

I was always skeptical of this place and assumed the location would mean overpriced accessories and sub par selection. But I found myself needing some last minute supplies for a photo class, and ran into Fireside to grab them. Not only did they have what I needed, they were incredibly helpful when I wanted to return something a few weeks later. I hadn't used one of the memory cards I bought for the class, and went back to return it. Fireside took it back without any hassle at all. INCREDIBLE customer service. read more

Not have too many camera stores around, I found it quite nice to come across such a quaint and friendly camera store. The staff, consisting of 2 gentleman, fully answered all of my beginner questions with patients. They also informed me about many of the products they cary, included the lens i bought, at a decent price. I recommend that if you have any questions or are looking to buy a camera in the SF Bay area to conceder Fireside Camera. They will take care of you! read more

Ed Lee hooked me up with a great package deal on a touch screen camera. Gave me a great price and the camera which is totally cool.... did I say it was a touch screen. Just got through getting hooked up at Toscalito TIre which is always great and these guys just made my day. The guys there dont push you for an upsale and everyone there seemed understanding. It came out to a little bit over $130 bucks and I got a leather case, 8gb sim card, a flexsable tri pod camera holder AND a 3 year warranty AND a lens cleaner... it was all painless and quick,,, I would refer friends there and if I ever need anything else camera-wise ill be back for sure. read more

The guys at Fireside Camera are great! Super knowledgeable, helpful, thorough, and friendly. In the past, I had only gone there to buy memory cards and a camera case. This time it was to buy a camera - and would highly recommend them for their expertise. I felt very well taken care of by the guys at Fireside! read more

On-line shopping has become a habit for me, and I researched and selected my new camera through on-line research. But I decided to support the local camera dealer with my purchase. Two unhappy experiences with this camera reward that decision: 1) operator error: I bent the lens-cover plates almost immediately, and Fireside repaired for a modest charge - and told me how not to repeat my error; 2) not sure how/why it happened, but my telephoto stuck in the open position. Fireside could not make the repair, but sent my camera back to Canon under warranty (at no cost to me, including packaging/postage). Not saying it was Fireside's decision, but they notified me today that Canon will replace my camera! Who knows - Canon may have done the same for me; but it felt great to have a dealer on my side in the transaction. Love my camera (Canon SX700) and my dealer (Fireside)! read more

I had been looking on line at several different digital cameras. I visited 3 local San Francisco camera shops, one being Fireside on Chestnut. The staff was very friendly and the prices were the same as other retail shops. I was given the camera to try in the shop. It seemed just what I was looking for. I mentioned that I had seen the camera body on line for about $400 cheaper. I was told to check reviews for the on line company selling the camera as there were companies on the net selling Gray Market cameras that would not be able to be serviced by the manufacture if anything went wrong with the camera. Being the skeptic and thinking it was just a plow to get my money, I thanked them for the help and left. I did go home and did a bit of research on the on line companies I had seen the camera for cheaper... boy was I glad I did.. sure enough the on line camera shops were high pressure sales on accessories and Selling Gray Market cameras. I decided that Fireside Camera was at least honest with me... and being a straight shooter myself... I appreciated their concern. After a few more net searches and investigation I decided that it was better to have a shop close by to go to in case I needed assistance and since they were pleasant and helpful, I called the next day and asked them to hold the camera, which they did. I was in the shop in about an hour after talking to them and the service was Great!. They did not try to sell me any other items that I did not need or want. I am very happy with my experience at Fireside Camera and am now a fan! Thanks guys! read more

I can't say enough great things about Tyler and Fireside Camera! I was searching for just the right camera for my purposes and after a lot of reviewing of online reviews, I decided on the Fujifilm X100S. I checked prices all over online. Turned out that this particular camera is in high demand and most places online were out of stock. So I did something I haven't done in a very long time...I called a local store to see if they had it and their price. I called a place in SOMA that I used to buy professional film at and they recommended Fireside Camera in the Marina. I asked if the prices were higher since they are located on the Marina and was told that they had excellent prices and service. So I called and I had a nice conversation with Tyler who informed me that they had gotten in 8 of this camera and there was only one left in stock at that time, only 5 days later! I was able to reserve the single remaining camera by putting down a deposit over the phone and I went there the following day to complete the purchase. Tyler could not have been nicer or more helpful! This store is worth physically going to! I am usually an online shopper but I was so delighted by the experience if shopping and buying at Fireside Camera in the Marina, that I will go there for all my future photography-related purchases. It feels like an "old time" camera store where the owner knows everything about photography because he shares your passion for it. One of the best parts that I have not mentioned yet is the fact that their price was exactly the same as the LOWEST possible price I could find online (where it was often impossible to buy even if I wanted to because the sites were out of stick)! This store not only gave me the best price and service possible, but provided an outstanding buying experience. I recommend Fireside Camera more highly than any real world store I have ever recommended! Thanks Fireside Camera! read more