I stopped by to purchase a DJI microphone, there was free valet service, once entering the first floor you will see where they print out photos. Right upstairs is a vloggler/influencer dream. I believe the gentleman who helped me was Tony, a supervisor dedicated so much of his time to educate me about different lightings and cameras. Subsequently, I got rid of my ring light as soon as I got home after. read more

Angeles and was impressed by the facility itself. It is a really nice space that is thoughtfully organized across multiple floors to cater to different creative needs. Whether you are looking for lighting, video equipment, or traditional still photography gear, the layout makes sense and the product displays are well put together and easy to browse. The buying process for new gear is efficient. The staff members I spoke with were helpful and clearly knowledgeable about the items in stock, which made the experience smooth. It is definitely a great place to stop by if you want to get your hands on the latest equipment. However, I did have one notable downside regarding their trade-in process. Their valuation for used gear is not competitive compared to other major name-brand companies. In my case, their offer fell short by about $300 to $400 (which was not used retail). When I showed an associate the legitimate competitive offer I had received elsewhere, they simply dismissed it and told me to just go with the other company. It was disappointing to see a lack of willingness to work with a customer who had a documented, better offer. Aside from the trade-in experience, it's a solid shop with a great selection. I would recommend it for new purchases, but you might want to look elsewhere if you are trying to get top dollar for your used equipment. read more

I purchased a lens hood for my camera from Samys but it kept falling off my camera. I thought it was maybe a poor design or something ,it eventually fell off and got bent so I purchased a new one .the new one fit perfectly so I called and spoke with Brandon and explained my problem he told me to bring it in and he would take care of me. When I arrived I was greeted with a strange look from another employee named Ozzie , he's actually the person that sold me the camera hood he immediately started accusing me of negligence to the point that Brandon told him to calm down and i said to him " it's called customer service " it was a very strange interaction between employees,the other employee b Ozzie was looking at me like I was some kind of criminal, I actually felt like he was possibly a bigot or racist . The energy was very unsettling I was with my Wife and 8 yr old daughter ,they both felt uncomfortable as well as me. The employee Brandon then walked back after supposedly speaking with someone named Scott and told me there was nothing they could do. This is was definitely my last time at this store,I actually bought a camera bag too but I will be returning after further contemplation. They lost a customer over a faulty $100 item.I will never purchase anything from this place again. Horrible customer service . read more

Samy's Camera - Lens hoods - Photography Stores & Services Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Writing this because ***SMILE! YOU GOT IT AT SAMY'S*** feels like a slap on the face. Keep buying online, these kids don't know anything about costumer service. The valet parking people were so friendly and attentive, I got in, looked around and found some stuff but as soon as I got to the film and paper stand the guy that was there was such an unhappy person, he was irritated that I wanted some film and when I asked for some paper he even grunted. What was I supposed to do? Call the manager and make everything more awkward? Hopefully he can find a job that he loves. read more

Samy's Camera - Photography Stores & Services Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Samy's Camera is the one stop shop for all needs! I went and was helped by Rika. He was so patient, thoughtful, and helpful. Couldn't have made my first experience with Samy's any better. read more

All I can say is that Keegan provided one of the best experiences I've ever had at a camera store. He is legit the nicest employee I've ever met. I came in looking for cinema gear and he was extremely knowledgeable. If you're thinking about going into another camera store, don't do it come to Keegan. read more

Samy's Camera - Photography Stores & Services Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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I went into Samy's camera to sell a unused camera, and was helped by Michael. I had wanted to use the trade in value toward a new camera and let Michael know what I was thinking about and asked what lens options or camera body options would best suit my needs and most common camera use. He was beyond amazing and helpful! He was patient, answered all my questions, and explained the differences to me and why he was making the recommendation he was making. He also let me know about other services that I can actually use at Samy's Camera. I talked to him about a film camera I was gifted and he offered to help me get it looked at and figure out which accessories would suit me. He also said if the camera isn't in working shape that they have repair services on sight. If you are looking for informative help ask for Michael! read more

My go to Photolab just closed and I thought I would give Samy's a try. When I tell you that my experience was interesting, I am NOT kidding. I'm going to start by saying that I want to live there. It's a photographers dream in many ways, but unfortunately I left kind of disappointed. Aside from developing film and buying new film, I had just been gifted a beautiful Polaroid Land Camera from The 60s that I wanted them to look at for me. When I went in I had a lot of camera questions, Keegan at the photo station was amazing, he answered all of my questions and helped me find the right film for my camera, he was great. He told me to go show my Land Camera to the repair men on the second floor. I met this gentleman named Kenny, who I must say is so knowledgeable about cameras and told me so much that I didn't know, he also had a big smile on his face,and made me so happy to bring him my camera. He said it just needed some cleaning and he was going to take care of it and his colleague Richard was coming in soon and he wants him to look at it also. I was so excited! While he was taking a phone call someone by the name of Micheal came to work along side him. This person was so rude, to not only Kenny but to me and the customer behind me. He definitely did not want to be there. He told me that my camera is useless and they don't make film for it anymore and Kenny should be doing his job and not telling me that he can clean it. I told him that I know they don't make film for it anymore but I wanted Kenny to help me clean it. Micheal made everyone in that room uncomfortable and made Kenny feel terrible. He treated him like he was so small and honestly I was hoping they had cameras to watch this absurd behavior. Micheal handed me my camera and as I was talking to him, he was talking through me to the person behind me and ignoring Kenny at the same time. So, I had my film developed and bought new film and just took my camera back home without it being fixed or anything. They have a great first floor and I will go back to develop film and buy new film (least expensive film I've see in the area) but honestly, AVOID this Micheal guy, he does not care about your equipment or anyone one around him. My four stars go to Keegan,Kenny and Mary who made my experience amazing. #kennyrocks read more

Damion is an amazing help, purchased a large order for a production go-pack with him and he was very helpful. Will go back.

Samys is the Nieman Marcus of Camera stores! So many creative, helpful people ready to explain a new camera or lens or even help you find a great paper. And you gotta love the valet guys. Lucky that Samys is alive and well! For those people who don't like to shop online...cuz it's fake!! Come to Samys! read more

Samy's Camera is the real deal if you're serious about gear. Every time I've ordered from them it's been smooth and easy. They keep a solid selection in stock and the staff actually know what they're talking about. I've bought multiple cameras and tons of equipment here and never once left confused. Everyone in the store handles their department like a pro and you can tell they're not just trying to sell--they're passionate and experienced. Whether it's lenses, cinema rigs, lighting, or mics they'll break it all down with zero ego. Store's clean, everything's organized, and pickup or shipping is always on time. You can ask them anything and you'll get a real answer not a sales pitch. It's giving Iron Man walked in and said upgrade me and they didn't even blink. read more

If you're into photography--even just a little--GO to Samy's. I just moved to Park La Brea, and having Samy's Camera within walking distance feels like discovering a secret weapon. I brought in a few rolls of film to be developed and met Richard--super friendly, super knowledgeable, and just an all-around great guy who's been managing the department for over a decade. He helped me set up my account, explained how everything works, took my film, and even gave me a 10% discount, just out of pure kindness. Got my scans back in less than 24 hours. Easy. Smooth. Awesome. But beyond the service, this place matters. It's one of the last real camera stores left in California. Everything's here--gear, film, accessories--and if you're seeing it on Amazon, I'd say skip it and come here instead. Let's keep this place alive. Samy's isn't just a store--it's a part of the photo community. Highly recommend. read more

Samy's Camera - Photography Stores & Services Near Me - Los Angeles, California

I've been going to Samy's for the past year and they have been the most efficient and timely place when it comes to developing film. Additionally their selection of film is very impressive and they are my go-to place for anything and everything film related. Fabi and Mary in the film counter have been so helpful and kind every time I have been there. When I bought my first film camera, I was so overwhelmed with all the various types and brands of film but they were so knowledgeable about everything and eased my feelings of being so overwhelmed! read more

Very large store for camera gear, up to 3 floors of various departments including rentals, service/repairs, all camera gear and accessories. I came in to get a cleaning for my camera as there was some dust on the sensor. This was improved right away for no charge and I also was able to buy a dust blower. I browsed the camera and lenses selection for a bit bit too, and they did not hesitate to show me one of the new state of the art Sony zoom lenses that had just come out. Very reasonably priced selection and some used gear for sale as well. read more

Horrible service horrible hours staff is extremely rude. 50 years too many. Don't suggest.

Richard in the film lab is the most knowledgeable film professional I have ever had the chance to talk to. Highly recommend Samys for 35mm film purchases and processing. read more

Such a cool store although the employees like to degrade you and make you feel stupid for asking simple questions.

My favorite place when it comes down to camera repairs and/or equipment. The repair man (I'm so sorry I can't remember his name but he is the greatest person ever with the most knowledge!!) he is extremely helpful ! Has helped me understand cameras that i being it, cleans em' right up and they're good to go! Worth the drive for me coming from the valley, I've never not had a good experience ! Theyre also stocked with pretty great variety of film! read more

Still the best. They're doing a great job keeping up with the times. You can try out gear, compare different options, learn from experts, trouble shoot problems, and get exactly what you need right there on the spot. It really is just fun to be there. read more

I frequently go to Samys and today when I went I had an amazing experience with Richard Rivera the photo lab manager. He was knowledgeable, High energy, and really made us feel like he cared about our photography project. Do yourself a favor next time you are at Samys ask for Richard. read more

Samy's Camera - Back drop and 2 SKB cases - Photography Stores & Services Near Me - Los Angeles, California

They don't honor holds. An employee (Michael) agreed to hold a white ZVE1 for me at 2:28pm, I drove 1.5 hours 1 way and when I got there they said they gave it to someone else (5:45pm). They do not give a fuck tbh. Cameras are nice ofc but a subset of the workers are so miserable (not all, elevator guy was nice) make the dmv people seem like angels. Just go to a different Samy's camera bc it feels like you lose some of your soul being in this place for 20 minutes read more

Guys at camera repair on second floor are pretty unhelpful. I came in with a digital Canon and a polaroid that needed repairs -- both to which he told me he couldn't. I understand they're not the most modern cameras, but isn't the point of a camera repair shop to be able to repair uncommon cameras? If I need a newer one fixed, I could just go to Best Buy. He told me they were BOTH "out of the service date" and that the only place that could repair them would be in BROOKLYN. He also added that it'd only be for "sentimental value." Surely there was a nicer way to say that they're irreparable (which I'm still not sure if they are). Don't go here for cam repairs!!!! read more

Richard Rivera was absolutely amazing! amazing customer service! he was funny, informative, patient, and understanding. I put this man through a whole rigmarole and He handled the situation very well. bottom line, this man deserves a raise! read more

Samy's Camera Pasadena is definitely the place to shop if you have any camera or camera-related needs. Once again, as on every visit I've made over several years, the folks there have been extraordinarily helpful and patient. Sometimes I just wanna learn about something or ask for insight. Never has any staff person tried to push me to buy something but simply responded "Hi, can I help you?" -- and actually meant it! Big shout-out to Juan and Jason!! read more

The best place ever a photographers heaven. I go here so much and the service is incredible and very helpful. They have everything that you could dream of that's relevant to camera stuff. read more

Samy's Camera - Photography Stores & Services Near Me - Los Angeles, California

They make discounts for items when they out of stock and finish em when making restock. coincidence? I don't know... When you tell about that to employees they can't tell you anything so they just skip you. Very interested staff on sales:) was gonna buy new camera,another lens for my current camera and mics. I bought just mics cause anything else they just don't have in stock... That's how people ruin their business Unfortunately in La it's probably only one store of video/photo stuff. I guess only that fact keep them still in the business read more

Ben in the "Custom Printing" department (upstairs at Fairfax store) was extraordinarily helpful in my many decisions. I'm one of the thousands of LA's Palisades Fire victims, so I have much to replace, and am still fragile from the trauma. Ben explained options clearly and gave me the benefit of his excellent judgments and good taste. He's very experienced and talented. And kind! (And a gentleman who helped this elderly client carry my purchases to my car.) Among his recommendations was to print on their "fine art" paper which looks almost like it was printed on fine linen--definitely worth the small extra upcharge in the custom printing choices. He tweaked my photos of lost art such that they look almost as good as the originals. Thank you, Ben. Today I picked up custom print-on-metal in glossy finish, and the picture is spectacular. It actually looks backlit, like seeing your photos on an ipad! Again Ben helped to maximize the image of one of my ocean sunset views lost (now regained). But I also tried the much less expensive SamysPrints2Go service downstairs (and online) for a 36x24 sunset to place over my fireplace. That service is only offered in matte. They print exactly what you submit, so you do your own edits. It came quickly and impressively well-packaged and is FABULOUS! Everyone who sees it is impressed and asks how they can do it, too. It gives me great joy; thank you Samy's2Go! read more

Samy's Camera - Sunsets from my deck at Tahitian Terrace - Photography Stores & Services Near Me - Los Angeles, California

I purchased an item from Samys that was almost non returnable Mary and Richie helped me through the return process and explained to me how to use the product. Initially they did not agree the item was faulty but based on my user experience and the cost of the item they both understood and saw my point of view and agreed the item was faulty. They offered me a full refund or store credit. I took the store credit as I have been a long time customer of Samys and I have spent thousands of dollars there. Thangs again guys! read more

These people have every ink cartridge I've ever asked for. But more importantly they're also great neighborhood community members. Their block is always clean and beautiful. And more important they take care of the people too. I witnessed today a selfless act of bravery and I'm so impressed and thankful. read more

My shopping experience was like ROCKSTAR treatment. Thanks to Richard Rivera. The second I walked up to the counter Richard lay down the red carpet. He listen to my needs and wants and tailored them. He also gave professional advice on the project that I purchased. I wish there were more Richard Rivera at all service counters. Richard energy is good and he represented Sammy's well and is a very valuable asset to Sammy. Again Thanks for everything. Rodney Thomas read more

Service was amazing! Got my prints quick and the gentleman helping me out were knowledgeable and friendly! My prints were absolutely beautiful! read more

I spent $80 on three packs of Polaroid SX-70 film. All packs were expired, and because of the chemistry change in the film, were completely unusable. Incredibly disappointed and won't be shopping here ever again. You don't simply sell someone expired film that is expensive without mentioning that it is expired. read more

Best camera shop in the mid Wilshire/Hancock park area. Very professional and serious about they're products. My son had to get a camera for class and Mike knew right away and helped me get exactly what the professor wanted. read more

Samy's Camera - Mike sold me the more expensive camera, but I hope we can get good use out of it even after my son's class. - Photography Stores & Services Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Damion is the best! I've been struggling with finding a cord for my external monitors and he found the correct cord for me and showed me how to connect it to my camera! Top tier service! Really great guy!! read more

terrible customer service. I asked if they take Canadian photos and the girl who answered said yes and I asked her what the measurements were and she didn't know. So they just say whatever they want you can't really trust this company. read more

Horrible staff! They make you feel like a burden just for asking about an item's availability. I would've ordered online if it weren't listed as available only at the Fairfax branch. The kicker? The item wasn't even in stock there. Yikes. read more

This is might be one of heavens locations on earth. For all your production needs, Samy's knows how to make it happen. Staff is super knowledgeable and friendly and always gets my orders ready for pickup. Super clean and easy to execute any photo needs. 5 stars read more

Samy's Camera - Inside - Photography Stores & Services Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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Came in to purchase accessories. Rick helped me out, but most importantly, he graciously offered me a few tips and explained technical details to help me improve my compositions. A wonderful person and a great photographer. His work is in the back of the store. Thank you, Rick! read more

Worker was lazy. I went in to look for gear that said they had in stock online and even the associate said was in stock but he couldn't find it & only spent no less than 5 minutes looking for it. Only tried Sammy's because I needed it for tomorrow & b&h would take longer. read more

I drove from The Bay to LA to load up on Film Rolls, Batteries, and Cleaning Equipment. I was very clueless about what was what and the team there helped me out with every question I had. Samy's will be The Holy Grail now. read more

Samy's Camera - Samy's Entrance - Photography Stores & Services Near Me - Los Angeles, California