If you're a photographer - professional or hobbyist - George's Camera is where to go! This place has everything: lighting gear, camera bags, lenses, and enough accessories to make you question whether you've ever truly taken a "real" photo in your life. The staff? Walking encyclopedias. I'm convinced they collectively know every camera ever created, including the ones that were prototypes, rumors, or fever dreams. I brought in an old Canon my brother gave me--so old it probably qualifies for Social Security--and the gentleman behind the counter with the long white beard took one look and immediately knew its entire genealogy. Extremely helpful, extremely patient, and honestly, I'm 70% sure he's a wizard. If you're in North Park and need anything for your inner shutterbug or just want to bask in the glow of pure photographic tribal knowledge--George's is the spot! read more

Such a great value if you're looking for more parts for your camera! They were really sweet and helped us find the perfect lens. They also have older camera on display to take a look at. They have all the accessories you need from backpacks to lighting set ups at a reasonable price! read more

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Nothing beats buying local! I've been to George's Camera before to get prints from my disposable camera. The quality was amazing and reasonably priced. Definitely is better than going to a CVS where your photos will often be blurry. Recently I've been coming in a little bit more often to learn more about what my next camera will be. The employees were very knowledgeable and opened the cameras to make sure I tried them on and really liked what I was purchasing since it was a huge investment . I did think about buying from Best Buy or Sony because the prices seem better but George's Camera was able to price match the camera for me. They also are super knowledgeable about accessories. I definitely will continue coming here again for all my photography needs. They also have a Kearny Mesa location and offer some photography classes. read more

George's Camera - Sony alpha 7r - Photography Stores & Services Near Me - San Diego, California

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Came in to fix the film winder on my Olympus om-1 and was bummed to hear it would take up to 4-6 weeks because I want it for Coachella. Ryan the MAN overheard the conversation and said he thinks he can fix it on the spot. Brother fiddles with it and gets the job DONE. I also got a roll developed that's been stuck in the camera since my trip to Mexico City. Bought some rolls and left very happy. This store has my heart and service! read more

I came to George's Camera after purchasing an older Polaroid camera at an estate sale to get it checked out and buy new film. After speaking with one of the employees he advised me to purchase the I-type film, which I did. The film would not fit into the camera and another employee tried to assist. The second employee mentioned that the first one had used an AI overview to find out what type of film should be used. That is completely unacceptable and a gross level of incompetence. No self proclaimed camera store should be using AI to advise their customers about what to purchase. I did get the right film eventually, but because of George's Camera's complete dereliction of responsibility and no return policy I am now out an extra $20+, and have a useless extra film without a camera. I won't be returning. Be aware that advice you get here might be complete AI nonsense and you're better off doing your own research. read more

I went to George's Camera in North Park to ask the photo lab to scan specific old photos that were already affixed to pages with other photos. I could not take the old photos off without risking damage to them. The photo lab staff was able to scan the photos. I'm very pleased with the results....great service from George's Camera and specifically, the George's Camera North Park photo lab!!! read more

Cannot recommend enough. We brought priceless photos here to be digitized after my grandma passed- she was an artsy soul and had some pretty awesome shots spanning 80 some years. they were super fast and everything came out so much better than we ever could have hoped. shops like this are so important. emphatic THANK YOU from the rays!! read more

I'm really glad to have found a new home for all my photography needs. I have been here multiple times to drop off rolls of film for developing, pick up three or four rolls for travel, and pick up various items for photography. The staff here is super knowledgeable and friendly. They provided suggestions for film when some of my favorite brands were out. The quality of the photos was just as good with what I expected in developing, so these.guys know what they're talking about. I'll be traveling, so I'm looking forward to bringing these rolls in and seeing how they turn out! read more

The best in the business. If you would like professional pictures for your passport, this is the spot. Friendly staff. Highly recommended read more

Do you need a passport photo??? Because after getting a horrendous photo at CVS, George's Camera saved me. The service is quick and professional, with good lighting and a nice camera. The price is more than you will find at a big box store (around $25?), but the quality is far superior. The man who helped me provided both print and digital copies, which I was able to easily use to submit my passport application online. read more

Don't waste your money printing photos anywhere else. The folks at George's know how to color balance properly, and the quality of the paper they use (not to mention the fact you can choose between different types vs. glossy-only) is amazing! Parking across the street in the big garage is cheap if you're just running in for a bit to pick something up. Bonus: if you live further north, they'll let you pick up prints from their Kearny Mesa location. read more

Dealing with George's is like dealing with Dr. Jekyll and the evil Mr. Hyde. They're all friendly and helpful when selling you hundreds or thousands of dollars in cameras and gear. But come back with simple questions - nothing wrong with the camera or gear - and you're greeted by Mr. Hyde. That was my experience with the staff at George's on 30th street. The clerk - let's call him nothing but a salesman intent on making a sale - was all smiles and friendly when ringing me up for more than a thousand dollars for a new Nikon. At the counter he pleasantly took his time and coached me though some of the basics of the camera, which was in a line of Nikons I was familiar with. (Granted this Nikon was more sophisticated than my other Nikons, but I still had a fundamental understating of its capabilities.) So, here's the story: At the time I bought the camera and accessories - with my credit card on fire - the salesman sincerely told me to come back with any questions and he (they'd) be happy to help. After a couple of weeks, I had one programming issue to solve and a series of elementary questions. I wasn't looking for someone to teach me how to use the camera but rather help me understand some of the subtleties of a few programs. I went back to George's. There was nothing pleasant about this visit. This time the salesperson was downright snooty. The condescending salesman told me "We just sell the cameras." But he graciously said he'd allowed me to ask three questions - anything beyond that would be considered "one-on-one coaching" at a rate of $100 bucks an hour. What happened to the Mr. Nice Guy come-back-anytime-with-your-questions. Oh, right, I wasn't buying anything this time. The programming issue was quickly solved. I was left with two more questions for the realm - and I had about a dozen on my list. I had to prioritized and choose carefully the two questions. Both were easily answered. So much so that the salesman grudgingly deigned to answer a few more questions - mostly quick confirmations of my understanding of certain settings as opposed to having to take time to instruct me on their use. But it was nonetheless uncomfortable. The salesman telegraphed it was an unwanted imposition. In the end, the clerk gave me the 800 number for Nikon and told me to call them with any other questions. I'll be calling the number to let Nikon know that George's is a poor ambassador of their cameras. Bottom line is if you're gonna buy a camera or gear - get it from Phi's or Bob's or John's or Sue's anywhere but George's. read more

I am soon going to Norway to take some pics that I never seen. my problem was to make sure my Nikon was up to spec and working well. Both Jim and Trever worked with me two different days to make sure I was taking the right path. My Nikon came back two days later. One of the areas was that my Nikon needed an over haul since my Nikon hadn't been used for several years. Trevor and I discussed several paths of which I went on a the upper path. I can't thank Jim and Trevor more for their help and direction. The best thing about Jim and Trevor is they are hilarious and can't wait to bring some beautiful Pics back home. read more

Just love the Old School approach and the incredible knowledge of it's Staff. As an Old school photographer myself I have enjoyed being able to chat over many photography subjects and techniques that is overlooked by the digitally dominated photography environment. read more

George's Camera - Family Portraits, Wedding Portraits, Sunset Portraits, Engagement Portraits - Photography Stores & Services Near Me - San Diego, California

I was very disappointed with my experience. I returned a brand-new item that was never even turned on, simply because it was too big for my needs, and was charged a 15% restocking fee. What's worse, I wasn't informed about this fee before making the purchase -- I only found out when I saw it on the receipt after paying. I understand store policies, but charging such a high fee for an unused product without clear prior notice feels unfair. Next time, I'll just order from Amazon -- they're much more transparent and customer-friendly. read more

Excelent service,knolagle staff ,reasonable prices,large product selection. I have been a customer for many years,always has been a great experience. read more

This place is amazing. Don't know much about cameras/photography so had a lot of questions. Peter was super patient with me and very knowledgeable. Took the time to help me out from start to finish. Been a customer for years and will continue to do so. read more

Sweet! I got a bundle on a canon r6 mark ii with a wide lens I need for car shots. This is exciting. I have so much I can't wait to shoot! Only thing that is a bummer is the battery has to be charged before using the camera! But that's not to take away the hour of time dedicated to finding the right camera for my needs and learning specs about it! Did you know this place gives free classes on photography once you purchase a camera? I got 2 tokens for sensor cleaning, and the 3 year warranty on cleaning and maintenance for the camera and lens. Im so happy and feel like I made the right decision! I have been wanting to do this for over 10 years but I wasn't confident back then if it would have been the best choice for me at the time to invest in a camera because I was limited on my budget as a college student! Now I can say wow, the bundle, the camera, the warranty, the service here and everything in between was phenomenal. I learned so much and have to say i recommend everyone to come here! I believe the guy who helped me out was Ethan or Eric? He's very tall and has a lot of experience with cameras! Super professional I appreciate it! read more

George's Camera - Canon R6 mii - Photography Stores & Services Near Me - San Diego, California

Shout out to Willow! She was such a life saver. Another camera store that shall not be named (ok it was Camera Exposure) completely erased my sd card and didn't offer up any recovery methods. Willow went above and beyond and got all my pictures back. She was helpful, caring, resourceful etc. I never have a bad experience at Georges Camera. read more

Amazing as always just need to be aware that a rental will require a deposit for the full price of a new lens.

Everyone that works there are very knowledgeable about cameras and were very friendly and helpful. They also have events where they would buy your used cameras and gear. I sold my Sony a7ii and got a good price on it. Not too sure when they normally do the sale but I follow them on instagram and always keep a look out. I would definitely come back here for all my camera needs read more

If you are looking for the best place to get your film developed in San Diego, look no further!! Before finding George's, I was going to N*****s and I kid you not when I say my life has changed for the better after finding George's. My film comes out way crispy (IYKYK) and you can tell the folks in the lab truly care about your craft. Not to mention the quick turnaround - I'm always quoted 10 days but it's never made it past 7! ALSO their selection of film/cameras/lenses and accessories is truly unmatched! Whether you are a beginner or professional, George has what you need. The staff there is so incredibly welcoming, always asking about what I have coming up and recommending certain films (like a super funky purple lomo chrome for a friends disco party) Also the value is on par with not only other shops but online retailers (give or take a few $$) but there is always something great about shopping small! Anywho - if this review didn't convince you to shop small at George's, -I don't know what will! read more

Brought my film camera, which I bought from them in for review as it was jammed. Very helpful in diagnosing problem. Even though they do repairs, they sent me to another shop that specializes. Very happy with the courtesy of service and the referral. read more

Spent $9k here this week on camera equipment of course. Really liked that they went out of there way to help me get the discounts I could get on my camera and lens. Really didn't like that they threw a bag I left in the store by mistake out in the trash this morning. Great way to deal with the lost and found of your customers, just throw it outside in the trash. It was a $70 bag, not some trash bag. read more

I never really write reviews but as soon as I got my film developed and returned to me.. I knew I had to. Seriously I will never get film developed anywhere else ever again. The sheer quality of how the photos turned out is nothing short of impeccable read more

Amazing shop, so helpful. So fast. They helped me with drones, an underwater rig, and buying a lense. They gave me other shop recommendations. This is the place to go for beginners and experienced photographers. read more

$30 for digital and physical prints from my disposable camera. pictures were ready in 3 days ( so fast!) and the staff are SO nice! will be going back read more

Wanted to give photos as a last minute gift (my fault) and had a hard time finding a place that still develops photos from disposable cameras in a short time frame. This location did a fast and beautiful job for a good price! Photos were ready in about 5 days and there were a ton of options for physical and/or digital copies. What a great service! read more

Love that cameras are still a thing. I support em when I can. Buy local! Amazon won't give you the ability to feel and experience these very important devices. Nor any help or support. read more

I was looking for the ever so popular Canon G7 Mark III camera for my son on every website you can imagine and had no luck. We came to George's Camera months ago because my oldest son was looking for a lens and we had excellent service. I sent an email inquiring about the camera and they let me know I could put a $300 deposit and be added to the waitlist. At first I was a little skeptical because I figured I might be able to find the camera faster on my own. A few days later I decided to call George's Camera on Kearny Mesa and I ended up speaking to and working with Jim. I asked him about cameras and why this specific camera was so in demand. He was honest and stated it is the "in" camera right now. He let me know about another Canon camera that was a dupe for the G7. Jim was so helpful and honest and even went out of his way to help me try to find the camera online. He ended up locating a Canon camera for me on Amazon however it was an international version. The only downside to this was if the camera had any issues, Canon USA would not honor the warranty due to it being an international version. I decided to put the $300 down and be added to the waitlist. Jim emailed me the receipt and made sure that I received it. The day before my son's birthday, I received a message from Jim stating they received the G7 Mark III! I couldn't believe it because I was number 12 on the waitlist. The following day we went to pick up the camera and I finally got to meet Jim in person. He is truly a genuine caring person and I will never forget him. His energy is unmatched. He's kind. He's knowledgeable. I felt like I knew him for years. What stuck with my family and I is that he stated he's been having great things happening in his life and we were one of those things. Not only did he help me find the camera, he genuinely cares. His service was like working with a great friend, not like a customer. I already enjoyed George's Camera and their service but working with Jim made me trust the place even more. Thank you to Jim for caring about people and just being a great person and making a place like George's Camera a place to be. I would definitely recommend the Kearny Mesa store to anyone who loves cameras. read more

One of the few photo stores in San Diego. Expect high prices and hit-or-miss customer service. I come by when I'm in dire need of 35mm film, but usually the stocks I'm truly interested are sold out. It's in a great location and it can be nice to pop in and browse. However, some of their associates could do better at not coming across so condescending when approached with questions about camera maintenance/ advice. I've had multiple friends come by who've also felt unwelcome. I appreciate what George's brings to the North Park/ SD community, and their employees are knowledgeable about their craft. But if they were located in LA or some other big city I'm not sure they'd have so many great reviews or customers. read more

Got my passport photo taken. Parking was easy. Service staff very friendly and fast!

Georges, icon for San Diego since 1965. Dropped off some pictures for scanning and print. Results were better than expected. Give this place a try. read more

This place is awesome! I found some old negatives and they were able to print them for me in the photo lab - Willow is AMAZING. Completely made my day and went over and beyond with customer service. read more

I'd never been to this shop before but it's the closest one to me so I thought I'd give it a try. The film advance arm on my old Yashica broke loose so I was hoping they'd be able to easily fix it or give me some good advice on what to do. When I went to the shop there were 3 people working & when one of them was free I approached him & started to describe my issue. He basically cut me off without even looking at the camera & barely looking at me he said "repairs start at $150". This caught me off guard & the camera itself likely isn't even worth that much, so I sucked my teeth & promptly walked out of the shop never to return. Fast forward to about a week later, after maybe 15 mins of internet research & $20 on eBay, I had an idea of what the problem might be & a new part on the way. Once it arrived I was able to easily install it myself & the camera was good as new again. This is likely what I should have done to begin with & not even bothered with the shop, but the dismissive way I was treated as a potential customer & the immediate willingness they showed to price gouge me was super disappointing. They could have even charged me double what the part cost & made $20 for 3 mins of labor & I in my amateur ignorance likely would have went along with it but they chose to reveal themselves instead. If that's how they want to do business that's up to them but they won't ever get any of mine read more

Best spot in town for your camera needs. Everyone who works here has been extremely knowledgeable and has been so kind. They digitize your film for you if you'd like, which is something I really appreciate! George's is my go- to spot for my camera needs :) read more

Solid choice for photography needs. They converted old family slides to Digital for me quickly and efficiently. I returned for passport photos and they treated me with the same courtesy and speed as if I was purchasing an expensive camera. read more

George's is the place to go for your camera needs, including film. It ends up my camera issue was operator error. Assistance was informative and free. When inquiring on upgrading my camera or lenses new options were explained without pushy sales tactics to buy on the spot. New to photography or on a budget, they have used bodies and lenses available at reasonable prices. I'll be stopping in regularly to see what is new. read more

George's Camera - Photography Stores & Services Near Me - San Diego, California

When I used to live in North Park, there was only one camera shop I would frequent when I needed gear, equipment, advice, etc. It was George's Camera! Probably over 10 years later nothing has changed. What they offer, their care for the customer, and services they provide remain top-notch. I will regularly visit George's once again for my future camera needs! I have to admit I'm no camera expert. I work off an excellent Canon M50 mainly for my YouTube channel. It's been a little frustrating for me as adjusting settings has been difficult in reference to the graininess of my videos at times. I recently learned more about lenses and planned to buy a couple of new ones. Since George's has two stores, I had to wait a couple of days to get the one I wanted but that was all right. It's a great courtesy that the George's Camera stores go out of their way to ensure the best service to the customer's needs. On this visit, I purchased a new lens along with a ND filter. Planning to do more outdoor videos brought a need for a wide angle lens and from all my research, the Canon 11-22mm is one of the best for outdoor shooting and vlogging. Yes, that will be a new game for me, but I'm committed to seeing it through! Now, on the COVID front, George's Camera is one of the most careful shops I've seen in their approach to letting customers in the store. There are standard notices on the entry door on COVID requirements. But when you enter, you have to wait at a counter and get permission to go in the shop. I was asked both times why I was visiting George's. I had good reason, but I'm afraid of how they may have responded if I said, "I just want to look around!" Well I was there for a purpose both times, so there was no need to test the waters with that one! Now, when you go in, they have a bottle of hand sanitizer on the table and do use it before you cross the threshold into the shop. I like the caution they take for their customers. And certainly, wear your mask! There are other places you can get camera gear like Best Buy, Amazon, etc., but the employees at George's are true experts. They all know camera, gear, and accessories inside-out. Some shops at other places may offer deals, but most of the time, camera equipment is priced by the manufacturer, not the store. I would encourage my readers to visit George's Camera to see what they offer among new products and rentals. It's great to see this shop is still how I remember it and I'll get my gear and accessories here as much as possible to support this great business! Thanks George's! Now let's get rid of this rain so I can get out and use my new lens! Recommend: VERY HIGH read more

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They are so helpful here and truly take their time to explain the process for film photography beginners like me. They go above and beyond and my pictures came out so beautiful!!! I will definitely be back. Glad they have lasted the rest of time read more

George's Camera - Kodak ektar half frame shots - Photography Stores & Services Near Me - San Diego, California

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