Linda was awesome helping me out. I was looking for a particular item and they had it. They let me take it for a spin and didn't pressure me into making an expensive purchase. Photo shoots, action, professional or recreational needs. George's has it covered. Got to try some different gear for some up coming projects. They close 5:30 pm so plan accordingly if you're going to make the drive out. read more

I don't go here too often, as I don't need to buy much more gear. When I do go, I'm always very happy with the quick and thorough help from the staff. They're so knowledgeable about lighting and photography. It helps a ton! The rentals department is great. They're quick and the prices are competitive with online rentals. Store is always clean and the parking is so easy. Great local camera shop! read more

I have always used George's because of their great customer service and product selection. I just returned my equipment that is in better shape then when I received. As returning everything I was told that the Tripod Collar's screw came loose. Therefore, there is a $25 charge for the repair. I will never use this shop again and you should not either, unless you want to get ripped off. read more

I haven't shopped here yet, but I did go in for a repair on my camera, a Fujifilm mirrorless interchangeable lens camera. Patrick called me after their technician inspected it and said it was a bad power supply, and he let me know that the repair would be expensive, but that Fujifilm might cover it even though it was outside the warranty period. In fact, he even offered to get me the serial number so I could inquire with Fujifilm, and he followed up on that with an email right away. So I'm going to send it in to the manufacturer; Fujifilm hasn't promised to cover it, but it could potentially save me a few hundred dollars. I appreciate George's Camera spending time trying to do the right by me rather than choosing to make a few bucks. They will certainly get my business in the future! read more

This review is particularly for the rental department. The staff is always friendly and helpful, but today they went above and beyond to show not only wonderful customer service, but an incredible amount of kindness as well. You guys made me cry.. Seriously I had tears in my eyes my entire drive home, and I'm still choked up as I write this review. I can't thank you enough for such a sweet gesture during such a hard time. You have no idea how much this meant to me! I will continue to rent here always, and use them for any and all of my camera needs! I wish I wasn't so awful with names, so that I could thank them by name for being so sweet today, when they did not have to be! Thank you so much guys! read more

Friendly, knowledgeable and helpful place. Patrick took the time to give my wife and I advice on some old camera equipment we had. He went above and beyond and the rest of the staff was very accommodating also. We will definitely be using them for future purchases. read more

They have a 15% restocking fee that's total BS. Received a Christmas gift I already had a duplicate of - tried to return it today brand new unopened and with receipt and the less than helpful man pointed out their fine print. Don't buy anything here unless you're 100% sure on keeping it cuz they'll charge you to walk it back and hang it on the shelf 5 feet away. Awful customer service. read more

These guys are so helpful, and super nice . They also develop b&w film ! They have everything you need and if you want a good deal on a used camera this is the place ! read more

I was having trouble with my Canon M50 not writing pictures to my SD card. I called George's camera for help, and even though I didn't buy my camera or equipment from them, they were willing to help out. They helped me troubleshoot over the phone and then offered to help in person if the tips they gave me didn't work. Unfortunately I've already got all my camera gear that I need for the foreseeable future, but I plan to buy any upcoming upgrades or gear from George's. read more

Expert Staff and Amazing service at George's Camera !!! I wanted to thank Patrick O'Dell for his help and responding and forwarding a question to his co-worker Larry McDaniel who is truly a very kind, courteous helping knowledgeable veteran professional at Georges, and one that needs to be recognized as going above and beyond and the extra mile to help the customer such as myself to solve any kind of problem they may have in the photography business whether it be with cameras gear or advice. I wasn't expecting Larry to respond to my question inquiry over the weekend especially on a Sunday, but I was grateful and thrilled that I received a response so quickly, That is Amazing Service!!! Larry responded on a Sunday, (which is truly amazing!!!) and let me know to bring in the receiver module and the strobe head for him to take a look at. I was not expecting to get a response so soon and figured out that I would get a response on Monday or maybe sometime later. I had purchased a Bowen's pocket wizard receiver module at Georges Camera a week or so ago, and had purchased the Bowen's Gemini 500 pro strobe head approximately 3 weeks previous (at another retail outlet). Once I brought the strobe down with the pocket wizard receiver module for Larry to take a look at, he had an immediate sense of what was happening. He noticed that the board in the strobe, was angled slightly downward and to the left ever so slightly which did not allow the receiver module to easily slip in. Larry tried another receiver module from the backroom and ended up with the same result. Receiver module would just not go in. Then Larry applied his magic touch inserting the module downward and angled to the left and before you know it, there was a "click" and the module guided by Larry's fingertips correctly went into the strobe receiver slot. He did a quick test with a pocket wizard, and the strobe fired like a champ. I felt a huge sigh of relief as this was my last try before contacting Bowen's the manufacturer about the problem. And we all know the routine. Box it up, ship it back, hope nothing gets broken along the way incur shipping charges, wait, get the item back and check it out and hope the problem is fixed. A lot of time can be lost by going through this route. Since I reside in Oceanside and have a daily drive to Irvine amounting to 55 miles one way and knowing that from Oceanside to Georges Camera in Clairmont Mesa is another lengthy drive in itself (just the opposite direction) there was something very professional and knowledgeable that came through in our conversation that demonstrated years and years of experience in the camera business only someone such as Larry would know. So after talking with Larry, I decided to drive down after work from Irvine and visit with Larry and see what he could do. And the rest of the story is history, Larry was able to insert the module into the strobe, and test it to ensure it worked properly and and then I was on my way. The entire process was no longer than 10 minutes. And yes I plan to leave the receiver module in the strobe since I only use Bowen's equipment at this time. If I should choose to use other equipment in the future, I will purchase additional pocket wizard units. Larry is truly a very kind helping professional at Georges, and one that needs to be recognized who goes above and beyond and the extra mile to help the customer such as myself to solve their problems. Without Larry's expertise and know-how I would have ended up contacting Bowen's and sending the strobe unit back, and then incurring the long wait and shipping expense. The installation was achieved in minutes, and I am truly a very happy customer. I am a customer for life at George's. Larry is truly Amazing !! Amazing Staff and service at Georges Camera read more

This store has everything you need from a hobbyist to professional productions. The staff is real knowledgeable of everything and will not steer you in the wrong direction. I am a big Sony Alpha mirrorless series fan. So Vince was my sales person and was great help since he's a Sony user himself. I recommend the getting the insurance for your purchase just in case anything happens to it (damage wise). He told me to get a different lens than what came in the bundle. But with his expert advice, we were able to customize the bundle. Don't think you can do that at a Best Buy or Frys. Oh and btw, they price match. read more

Incredibly helpful staff across the board - rentals and sales. Love this place and I can't wait to come check it out again. They really helped the project I was working on, and I'm stoked on my new gear I got there. read more

Love renting lens from this place. Keisha is very helpful with explaining rental rules and even gives advice on what type of lenses are best based on the shoot you are doing. Happy that they opened a location in Kearny Mesa. Plenty of park (secret - drive to the back of the building --there's a 2ns entrance back there.) read more

Great service everytime I go there. They take the time to answer any questions you have which is perfect. I bought a camera battery there and after short while it just stopped holding power and they gave me a new one and made the whole process quick and easy. I'll always come here for any photography needs. read more

I began a digital photography class this semester and came to George's to get a camera where I could adjust the settings. I didn't realize the amount of knowledge and experience I would run into here. They won't steer you wrong and the shop has pretty much anything you would want. If you don't see it in the floor, ask. They also have a rental shop where you can try new lenses and such before you buy. Pretty cool. read more

David and Patrick were amazing to help set up my brand new auto, the team here is the reason I come back..total professionals and always go the extra mile. Love this store read more

Awesome camera shop with extremely knowledgeable and helpful staff. They've got everything you need for photography and videography. I'm very happy with my camera purchase and the advice I was given. I will definitely be back! read more

I appreciate everyone at the store. Always helpful in person and over the phone! Thank you for your service during the COVID restrictions as well! read more

Jay at the counter at George's Camera was super helpful. It turned out I didn't making a purchase today but I will be back when I'm ready!!

Rotten service here. I'm a pro photographer and received a substantial rebate from Sony for my equipment purchases. I was feeling guilty about buying from online retailers so went to George's to spend my rebate on a new lens. They refused to accept my visa gift card (I guess a well dressed guy driving a new M4 looks shady?). Thus ends my attempt to buy from local small businesses and B$H says thank you for your purchase! read more

For the past 20+ yrs. I've seen so many of the same staff at George's. They are friendly, experts in their field, and so helpful. Their prices are competitive to online camera stores, and best of all, I get to talk face to face with them and physically handle cameras and lenses that I'm considering buying. Their rental department is also great. I highly recommend this camera store, especially now that there is one in Kearny Mesa which more convenient for me. read more

Jim at the Clairemont location was very helpful in assisting me with buying lights for live streaming video. I used the lights the next day and they lit the set beautifully. I didn't break the bank and I was glad I could support local businesses and not Amazon. Thanks for being there Georges! read more

Good service and staff have excellent product knowledge. I returned a broken tripod with no questions asked and they replaced it. Also good range of inventory and a great rental department! Highly Recommended for Amateur and Pro's! read more

Gimme a Break... Rarely Again My complaint is about their 15% restocking fee. First, let me say that for many items (cameras, items with many parts, etc.) a restocking fee makes sense because a) parts could be missing or substituted, b) they may have be purchased to use for a specific event and then returned to get a refund. I get that. But a camera strap, obviously un-opened, to be re-hung on the rack 15 feet behind us? Yes, the cost to us was just $1.50 or so, but then again the gain to George's was also just $1.50 or so. Such a mindless, rigid policy that doesn't take into account why and when a restocking fee can be necessary and when it makes no sense, is just poor customer service. In contrast, if I order a shirt from LL Bean and it's the wrong size, I can call, they tell me to send it back and then immediately put a new one in the mail to me - before I even have a chance to return the first one and they can see it's undamaged. That's customer service. BTW - over the years we've spent $1,000s at George's, Nelson's and Calumet camera stores. We use Nikon, Canon and Sony cameras for different types of photography. It can be extremely helpful to talk with someone who knows gear, let's you handle it, has a lot of stock & fair pricing, etc. We like that. I prefer to shop locally at brick and mortar stores whenever I can. But next time I'm looking for camera gear, I'll think about George's rigid restocking policy and look elsewhere first. read more

First time to George's. My Nikon 24-120 VR failed. I sent it to Nikon under warranty. After 10 days with out even hearing from them I went to Georg's to rent a lens. The one I wanted was already rented out. I met Patrick in the Rental department who was very helpful. He suggested a Tamron 15-30 and was knowledgeable about it. I wasn't sure about Tamron as I have always been Nikon. Because I was only renting it for a week I gave it a try. I was so impressed with it, I told Patrick I would buy it if he could match all the other deals from B&H, Amazon ETC; He did, I felt good buying it local. Thank You for all your Help Patrick... read more

Rental Department Specific... Aside from the vast selection of rental equipment, the place is staffed with some top-tier folks who are not only knowledgeable, but extremely flexible and courteous. I've heard so many horror stories about rental businesses with strict rules and robotic management - but George's goes against the grain by offering an expressly human and hospitable experience that made me feel like I was a long-time customer. Can't wait to rent again! read more

Staff are great & they carry great products in stock with a very friendly return policy. I bought a rode mic pro here a few months ago at a great price...it is excellent. Also, the staff will give one on one help with products! Great place read more

I had great repair service at George's. I had dropped my lens and the filter frame took the impact and became bent and completely stuck on the lens. The folks at George's helped me right away, determined to get it off. After a few attempts by two different associates, they determined it needed to me cut off. Success was then achieved in a few short minutes. They asked for $20 for the assistance or, if I bought a new filter from them, the assistance was free. I bought a new filter, they cleaned my lens and put it on for me. It's as if the dropped lens incident never happened. I highly recommend them! read more

George's Camera, specifically Mark, is the reason I chose to purchase a high end camera from a local bricks and mortar store than through an internet retailer. I spent 5 hours over 2 visits to investigate which camera and lenses to purchase and learn about the features of the cameras I was interested in. I never felt rushed. Mark even suggested a cheaper camera (than I bought) to meet my needs. He was not just a salesman but a partner in trying to show me features of each camera so that I could make the best choice. It turned out I bought the more expensive, professional camera because of a Nikon sale which made more sense to buy the Nikon D500 rather than the Nikon D7500 which just came out the day before. The main issue I want to underline is that when I am going to spend a lot of money on something, service becomes a big factor. The time spent at the store was enjoyable and priceless. They meet the on line prices from another state as well. Reading posts from others with horror stories about purchases from reputable places made my decision easier as well. Ask for Mark!!! read more

Staff very helpful. Everything's in store overpriced but good quality, great place to rent a lenses.

Love this place! I run a marketing firm and we use George's frequently. Whether I'm buying or renting George's has really great customer service and the've been very flexible with us. Special shout-out to Larry and Jim. I've probably received thousands of dollars of advice/consulting from these two and there's never a sales push, just sound advice. It's nice to shop somewhere where you feel like your business is appreciated and for that reason I'll sometimes buy from George's even when I find a better deal online. Five Stars***** read more

I'm a small business owner and my days can get crazy. I had a last minute photoshoot and had the photographer call and hold a backdrop for us. I got stuck at the shop later than planned so once I got on the road I called to let them know I was going to make it exactly at 5:30, their closing time. Esteban let me know he'd inform the closing staff. I arrived at George's and the doors were locked but I waived a young woman down. I told her that the backdrop was on hold and if I could quickly buy and leave. She said she'd ask. I watched her walk to the back and talk to the guys and they instead turned more lights off and started walking out. I begged (ya, begged) since I NEEDED this shoot done tonight. They said "nah, sorry. can't." I asked for a manager and apparently they leave early. When I gave up and got into my car it was exactly 5:33 pm. Not only did they close earlier than advertised but they were straight up rude. Go to Nelson's. read more

I've been here 3 times and every time i have had an amazing experience. The first time i was running late for a flight about to miss it and needed to pick up gear and they made the process so fast and got me out on time to catch my flight (barely lol) and were so friendly in the process. The other times i dealt with Tim in the rental department and i tell ya that guy will just make your day every time you see him. If you're ever feeling down go chat with Jim. Customer service in on point and the gear always works amazing. 100% will be back to this place. read more

Had the lens my son was looking for at the same price he found online so we didn't have to wait. Very helpful salespeople. Made sure he tried it on his camera before making the sale. read more

Georges camera is great! Ive rented gear from there many times to great success. I also recently brought in a film camera, not expecting to find the batteries i needed but hoping to learn something. I think his names was Trevor? He helped get me the film and batteries i needed and took the time to show me how everything worked. Super grateful for his attention and their service in general. read more

Such great staff! Went to Best Buy and they had a small section of camera Plus the staff didn't seem to know much about cameras. Decided to go to georges and thank goodness we ran into David! He was very knowledgeable and helpful! Got the perfect camera for our new photo and video sessions! Thanks David! read more

My dad came from the east coast and wanted to try out a lens while we visited some places. I called George's and made arrangements to pick up a lens. I could not have been happier by the courtesy, friendliness, and knowledge of the staff. My dad raved about how nice it was there and how he wished there was a place like this where he lives. Go there. They will help you and will not make you feel like a fool. read more

Great local photography shop!! I came in to purchase a seamless paper backdrop for the first time. Trevor was quick to assist me and found the exact color I wanted. When I was concerned about the length of the box fitting into my sedan, he helped put it into my car. Great service and selection. I'll definitely be coming back!! read more

George's Camera is a great place to go if you need gear or a camera! They have awesome customer service, too! I went in one day attempting to locate a battery for my camera and they had it listed as in stock but there were none there. They worked diligently and went the extra mile to find a way around this issue. Wonderful little shop, 10/10 recommend to anyone! read more

My camera was front focussing and George's camera shop was amazing. I was referred to them by a friend and was so happy with the results. They fixed my camera and I had it back in two days. They also showed me how to fix it myself the next time it happens. Excellent service! read more