I visited Looking Glass photo to get some help with my Canon 90D that wasn't fully functioning properly. I dropped off my camera with Kevin and it's great that they do a thorough check of what's being turned in with the camera so both parities have an understanding and documentation of what's being turned in. Kevin provided a great service and in general they beat their expected timing of getting the camera back to me. It only took them a couple of days. read more

I had a great experience with Looking Glass Photographic Arts, as an e-commerce customer, hailing from the other side of North America. I was looking for a pair of Nikon binoculars. I sourced them to Looking Glass Photographic Arts. I read a variety of on-line reviews for Looking Glass Photographic Arts, they were all outstanding. I was comfortable doing business with Looking Glass Photographic Arts, without speaking one word with them. Looking Glass Photographic Arts on-line payment processing platform is Shop, which I am confident in (more so than PayPal). Between Looking Glass Photographic Arts, and Shop, my purchase was seamless, communication was outstanding, and I had the binoculars 3 days after I ordered them, on-line, on the other side of North America. The binoculars were packaged in a sturdy box, with lots of padding, and were in brand new condition. Doing business with Looking Glass Photographic Arts was a pleasure, and is deserving of 5 Yelp stars. I recommend Looking Glass Photographic Arts, highly. read more

Very friendly staff that's very knowledgeable on cameras and films. That's good to know that you can rent out lens and cameras. That's good to know for next time and what's great is that they have a spot just right next door if you need your films developed. read more

See all

Looking Glass is a gem providing the type of expertise and service that is nearly impossible to find these days. I am coming back to photography after a 15 year absence, and I was struggling to figure out where to start to upgrade my equipment and learn the new technologies in anticipation of a big trip. I started with an outfitting appointment with Jen, which made everything feel much less stressful and doable. I was able to get all of the right equipment I needed at a great price, helped along by Jen and her team's expertise. She even found a parka for my camera, which will be key for my trip. I even took two refresher lessons to get me restarted, which were incredibly helpful.. I now feel confident to go on my trip with my awesome new camera, and I know I'll get some amazing shots. Thanks to Jen and the whole Looking Glass team! read more

Bought a new camera after 16 years, It is Great. Dave very helpful, I can use my old lens, because of a adaptor.

Thank you KEVIN! New to tripods, I purchased a pan tilt from an online company. I knew instantly i didn't like it and I found the frustrating. I called LGP and they said they had some to show me. I made the drive hoping I would find something better. KEVIN's first pick to show me was perfect! My new PROMASTER 525 Tripod (with Harley Davidson-orange clips, so cool) is all around much better! It's lighter, easier to use, customizable, monopod, taller, shorter, it goes flat and LESS EXPENSIVE!!! The whole staff was helpful. I'll be back for gear and classes! Thank you. read more

I picked up an OM tough tg-7 camera here because this store was listed as an authorized seller of this camera, so I figured I'd buy directly from them versus shop online. I'm happy I stopped by because the person who helped me was very friendly and the camera was on sale. They even offer a free 20 minute appointment to show you how to use the camera! They offer rentals and other gear as well, lovely spot. read more

I needed a CF Express card reader that would work with a MacBook. Called them up, Kevin answered the phone and I explained to him what I needed, and said he had three options in stock. When I arrived to the store to pick it up, I mentioned to a sales person that I was traveling to a colder climate and if he had any tips or tricks about keeping condensation out of the camera body and the lens. He referred me to Jen. Turns out Jen just got back from the Arctic on a photo expedition. I had done my own research and thought I knew it all but, Jen had some extra tips and cautions that were greatly appreciated. Thank you! read more

Quick and easy. They had my film developed in about two days with no issues. They have the best selection of film you could need. Definitely a go to spot for anyone in need of solid film development. read more

Needed an adapter for iPhone and tripod, and found plenty online, but wanted to shop local. This is the place! Friendly and knowledgeable staff, options on products with good recommendations, plus the shop is easy to find and parking is no problem. Great experience and glad this business is here! read more

Looking Glass Photo is a wonderful business with friendly, helpful staff that enjoy sharing their knowledge & passion with its customers! Looking Glass always works at being a community based business offering 1 on 1 customer service when needing assistance with a new camera/lens purchase, various classes offered, photo walks or even if just stopping by to say hello when in the area. I have been a customer for a two decades now and have happily followed them through two moves over the years and i like the feeling of going to an actual brick & mortar establishment for whatever i am in need of at the moment or can get ordered in a timely fashion. From film to digital, lighting/studio gear, photo bags, tripods & heads this place accommodates to its best ability to please their customers! Consider buying from smaller businesses that are still here for us (for now) and working toward a common goal of community & creativity over billionaire mega warehouses that take your money and offer nothing of substance after your purchase is made. read more

Staff are very knowledgable and kind. Service was very quick if you know what you're looking for. Came in to buy some individual film rolls, and the prices are unbeatable (always shop small! can't get the same deals off Amazon ). I went in for just one specific roll, but noticed their wide selection of 135mm. Left happy to load a new roll, but very sad that I didn't have the sense to buy more. Would be worth the roadtrip back to Berkeley though! read more

I purchased a g7 x Mark II online and the next day I called to ask if the camera was ready for pick up and they said no I explained I was going out of town and really needed it asap and they made it happen. This is my first time ever getting a professional camera. Kevin really helped me and went over everything. He helped me find a strap and the correct carrier. He also put on the strap for me and put the sd card for me. Throughly explained how to charge the battery and even some camera basics. He made buying a camera a seamless process. Thank you Kevin read more

Came here for a Fujifilm battery. The staff was super nice and helpful. I'm very happy with the service and will come back for future camera needs and might check out their classes. read more

I highly recommend Looking Glass Photo and its classes. Over the years I have purchased a large amount of quality camera gear here which has allowed me to grow my photography and videography business significantly. I've taken multiple classes, including portraits, macro, birds in flight, backyard birds, group review/critique, and private lessons. I've enjoyed all of them and found them super helpful to my development as a professional photographer and videographer. All of Looking Glass Photo's employees and teachers have been generous, professional, knowledgeable, and personable. It really feels like a community that cares about the art and the people. read more

I've been getting my 35mm film developed here at Looking Glass Photo for the past 4-5 years! There aren't many true film labs in my area (Berkeley) and even Looking Glass sends out and outsources their film development and scans to another lab. However, the quality here has been top-notch, and I've never had any issues with my film coming back with light halos, dust, scratches etc. The turnaround time for film can vary between 3 days to a week, depending on volume and if the lab is behind, so be aware if you are in a time crunch. I'd recommend Montclair One-Hour photo if you need your film within a day turnaround. The team members here are usually helpful and knowledgeable with any questions you may have. I even had one employee take the time to break down the differences in 3 types of film I was considering trying, the advantages & disadvantages, cost comparison, and limitations even! Price-wise, they can be on the pricier side for all things photography-related. Oftentimes, I've looked up the cost of certain lenses, film, and photo accessories like lights, stands, and seamless paper for backdrops, and they have always been priced on the higher, market price end. The selection of photography products is definitely very wide and they stay stocked up on inventory - anything from photo paper, to lens filters, film chemicals, to new and used cameras, to even camera rentals, you'll find it here! The store is well organized and parking is plentiful. All in all, I'd recommend stopping by for your photography-related needs. read more

See all

My son went to get a roll of film for his 35mm camera, he is new into photography and really interested to try the old fashion way to take photo instead of just using iphone which he has the latest iphone 16 already. He asked the sales to help which film he should buy for a 35mm camera and he told him to buy Kodak 400 PORTRA 120. He came home and I told him the sales is wrong. He DID NOT open the package at all. And according to the sales receipt: items in new, unused condition with all packaging intact may be returned for a refund or credit within 14 days of date of purchase when accompanied by a store receipt. Items that do not meet these requirements may be returned at the store's discretion with a 20% restocking charge. My son went back 3 days later with a receipt and the unopen film, he was told he can't get a refund non a store credit, or don't even have the option to accept the 20% restocking charges. Mind you the SALES guy is the one recommending him to purchase the "wrong" film. What kind of a store and service is this. The worst customer service EVER... read more

Great gear and excellent, personalized service! I recently upgraded from my old DSLR to mirrorless and appreciated Jon's guidance on which accessories to get and the free delivery for my online orders. read more

Due to the film shortage, I was looking everywhere for my favorite films, Kodak Portra 400 & Portra 800. Both of these film were no here to be found at other film stores in the area, so I decided to give Looking Glass a try. First, I called their phone number a few times but no one picked up. I guess they were busy. I decided just to come in person and check out the film selection. I'm really glad I did because I found the last few rolls of Portra 800 that they had. The workers here are also so nice and helpful. I was very happy with the purchase and the service. I recommend this place for all your film photography needs! read more

Looking Glass Photographic Arts - Photography Stores & Services Near Me - Berkeley, California

See all

I love Looking Glass! A local gem! I have been going here since 2011 for all my camera needs. The staff are professional and helpful. The last time I paid them a visit was to ask the difference between two film rolls : Kodak Portra 400 and Gold 200. The staff member at the time explained to me the advantages of each roll so well that I was convinced to buy five rolls of Portra 400 at $61. That's an unbeatable price! At Amazon, it's $93. Another example was when I needed the camera sensor on my Nikon D750 to be cleaned. Looking Glass provided the cleaning service at $50, which was a great price. Looking Glass is one of those shops that clearly sets the bar for friendly excellent customer service. They definitely have my attention. read more

Looking Glass Photographic Arts - Photography Stores & Services Near Me - Berkeley, California

Love these folks. I went in to get a new camera, post-SLR. The person who helped me was very patient and very knowledgeable. He pulled four different cameras out for me to touch, and helped me map out what features will actually matter for me. No pressure through the whole process. I've bought other gear from them over the years; printer and paper supplies, rented cameras, etc. I'm really glad to see a lot of the same faces still working post-pandemic; that suggests to me that they run a good team. read more

Excellent customer service. Very fair prices on excellent quality, used cameras and Lens. A few weeks ago I purchased a used canon 77d with Jeff, who did an excellent job, helping me and showing me the camera. Today I went in to get an inexpensive used canon Efs 55 250mm stm lens and received excellent customer service from David. Customer service is huge And is the reason I keep returning to this stellar camera shop. read more

This place is more than a camera store: it's a place to connect with art and artistic people. It's a rare gem in the era of impersonal megacorporations and pervasive chatbots, a refreshingly human hub of the Bay Area's vibrant photography community, beloved and iconic. read more

I have frequented Looking Glass literally for decades. It is just the best, one of the few places nowadays where the staff are so generous with their time to explain what they know about their various cameras. They really want what is best for their customers and don't pressure one to buy. They are all so very knowledgeable about all things photographic. This kind of service is such a treat in the times of online purchasing of cameras. A real gem! read more

Just had a great experience with Looking Glass Photo and Camera! We have purchased three cameras from Looking Glass Photo over the years. The latest - a Sony - just recently while they were moving locations. They have always been extremely helpful in choosing the right equipment that matches our needs and deserve a special acknowledgment for this last purchase. They took time to meet and go through our questions/problems multiple times and share their extensive expertise while they were working to outfit their new location. (BTW - new location looks very impressive.) In today's online world, being able to sit and have a conversation with someone knowledgeable about the array of products was outstanding! We have been using the new camera and once again Looking Glass helped us to make a very good choice. We have also used their repair/service department in the past for camera sensor cleaning, always with perfect results. We're now looking at their Photo Walks and the classes to learn more from this valuable team! We're so glad Looking Glass is nearby as they are a terrific resource! read more

Knowledgeable staff, fine selection of cameras and accessories good used cameras section. ASMR up the wazoo.

I've shopped at Looking Glass since the time it was located near the intersection of Telegraph Ave. and Alcatraz Ave. in Berkeley (but that was for only one visit), and I've shopped for many years at its second location, which was near the intersection of Telegraph Ave. and Oregon St. Most recently, of course, I buy photo supplies from their Ashby Avenue location. The employees are knowledgeable and they readily provide advice about equipment. MY PURCHASES. From Looking Glass I've purchased about eight boxes of 20 inch x 24 inch Ektacolor paper (50 sheets per box), and I did all of my printing and developing at ASUC studio. I use a cherrywood 4 x 5 field camera. Attached is a photograph of this camera, but the only reason I posted this picture is to show the silver-colored BOGEN tripod that I bought from Looking Glass. Also, I bought about ten boxes of 8 inch x `4 inch Ektacolor (50 sheets per box), several boxes of 8 inch x 14 inch Ilfobrom black and white paper (50 sheets/box), a few dozen rolls of Ektar 35mm film and a few dozen rolls of TMAX100 black and white film. At Looking Glass, I'm a regular customer of lens tissue, lens cleaning solution, camera batteries and, on a couple of occasions, a loupe and shutter cables for my field camera. ATTACHED PHOTOS. I've posted a few of my photos that I printed on paper purchased from Looking Glass, and this includes Akaka Falls on the Big Island, Sacred Falls on Oahu, a Volkswagon convertible with a funny sign that reads, "PLEASE RETURN MY PLANT (it has sentimental value) No questions asked!" This was taken by a street several blocks south of the UC campus. The black and white photo of the Sea Dragon ride and Octopus ride is from a state fair. For printing my black and white prints, I bought developer and fixer from Looking Glass, and I printed all of my black and white photos at my home darkroom. read more

See all

Looking Glass Photo know camera stuffs and are reliable! Call before you head in. Helpful staff.

Very good selection of both digital and film equipment. Very helpful staff and they also develop film

I've had several rolls of film developed and scanned at Looking Glass Photo. They do a fantastic job. I've always been very happy with the quality of developing and scanning especially compared to other places I've been. Additionally, they have great selection of films and some very nice/helpful employees! read more

Incredibly well stocked photography store with very kind people to help you. They no longer do passport photos and apparently the tech behemoths that run these review sites require extortion level payments from the biz to make any update to that effect. So I am here to tell you to get your passport photos from a ups store, and the patronize Looking Glass for all your camera and photo printing needs. We gotta support and treasure these local businesses because we're lucky to have them! read more

I'm thinking of purchasing a new camera. If I come to a local store to see what is available and a salesperson takes the time to talk to me, I will buy from that store and not use their information to buy the same product online and at a cheaper price. If my recent experience is any indication of their knowledge I will go elsewhere. What I am looking for is a cropped sensor Canon. The person waiting on me said all you want is a point and shoot, No, I repeated what I was looking for and added on wanted a DSLR so I could use the lenses I have that range for 10mm to 600mm. Then he asked if I wanted a camera beginners camera or one with interchangeable lens. I knew a Canon 77D and 80D had the sensor I was looking for and I asked if he could tell me the difference between the two or it Canon made another camera that had what I was looking for. He looked on his tablet and gave me some information. He did not offer to show me a camera. Too bad! I am ready to purchase a camera. I did not appreciate how condescending the person was. I do what to buy locally and am willing to pay more to do so, however, I do expect to be treated well when I go into a store. I'll still come here for odds and ends, but I will not buy a camera from this store. read more

The staff was super helpful in helping me find a film camera I needed for a class. They were super patient with me in explaining some of the basics to me, since I am just a beginner photographer. Op, the guy who helped me, was really knowledgeable and enthusiastic about the cameras and didn't rush me when I was deciding on my purchase. He was helpful in showing me some of the camera's functions. Overall, the service was friendly, and I would come back for my photography needs! Ps. The store is actually bigger than it seems! read more

Looking Glass Photographic Arts - Ashby plaza - Photography Stores & Services Near Me - Berkeley, California

See all

Ordered a camera from their website. The purchase was made and the payment receipt was sent to me. Then, the next day, I received an email that the camera '"...you bought on our website was purchased in our store just moments before you placed your order online, and therefore our website had not yet updated and removed it..". Well, how about that, just 'moments before '! I then checked their website - and it looked like the same camera appeared there - but with the price raised by $300. I informed them of the above and I was told it " it's likely a different " camera. However, it was the same camera with the same serial number. The $300 was not that big a deal - but I will now be buying the camera - along with multiple lenses, accessories and filters - from another store. read more

A photography store still exist in the Bay Area. A place where I can come for photography. Berkeley has a place where everybody can get equipment. Looking Glass has accessories that Mike's Camera or Camera West does not have. I ask a simple question about photography and I get a great answer in return. I have gotten dark room supplies from this place when I took a course at Diablo Valley College. This is what B&H should be doing for their loyal customer by giving them fast and reliable customer service. The location is big with plenty of parking. They even have a restroom to use. Come to Looking Glass if you have plenty of question to ask about photography. They are willing to help answer any questions. read more

I've only purchased film and developing services from Looking Glass, but I've come through many more times just to look around at all of their gear. Not just new gear, but interesting used gear as well. They have friendly staff. Staff members noticed that I was wearing my bike helmet and carrying my pannier, and let me know that I was welcome to park my bike inside. So I appreciate little details like that also. read more

Such a hidden gem! Bill assisted us and was patient and helped answer every question we had! The other employee was also sucker kind but we didn't get his name. 10/10 we will be coming back (: read more

I needed a last minute rental for a trip to Tahoe and the team at Looking Glass were absolutely top notch. They were accommodating for my pickup and the process was incredibly quick. I also prefer their camera and lens selection compared to other shops here in the Easy Bay. There was a slight issue during with the gear and Tam + Jon provided excellent customer service. The issue was addressed in an incredibly timely matter. This type of service is what I value most with this battle between retail vs online services. I look forward to coming here in the future! read more

Looking Glass Photographic Arts - 14mm wide shot on the D7100! - Photography Stores & Services Near Me - Berkeley, California

Walked in and was easily helped to find Kodak film which there's a shortage of! Super helpful staff, had a few film questions that were answered. read more

I stopped by Looking glass in Berkeley, CA on 5th St. this afternoon because my work camera battery was not charging. One of the salespersons offered to help me and we began to do a trouble shoot various issues that could cause my camera battery not to charge. During the trouble shooting process the salesperson grabbed a Looking Glass battery matching my Olympus camera battery. We checked the battery, and the battery charger. As it turned out the battery charger is at fault. The Salesperson sat Looking Glass battery down and forgot where he sat it. Instead of looking for it he accused me of taking Looking Glass's camera battery!!!!!!!!!!!! I was insulted!!!!!!! I walked him back into the store and showed him where he set Looking Glass battery down!!!!!!!!!! Did he apologize, hell no!!!!!! He falsely accused me of stealing Looking Glass battery!!!!! I am not sure what happened to this business, it is different from the store on Ashby!!!!! Needless to say, I will not do any more business with this company!!!!! read more