Needed a digital camera and stopped at their store in Pasadena. Gabriel was very knowledgeable and showed us several different cameras. This location was larger than I expected, and they have more than just cameras -- they had lighting gear, film, video equipment and more. They also offer photography, video and tech classes. There is a parking lot in the back of the building, and street parking is also available. The best part is that they are pet friendly! read more

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

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I had a frustrating experience at the Pasadena location of Samy's Camera that I think other customers should be aware of. I brought in my OM-3 because the shutter was stuck closed and the camera was shutting down. I purchased a protection plan with the camera, but the staff at this location told me they didn't know what the warranty was and said they would not honor it. Since that didn't seem right, I drove to the Samy's Camera location in Los Angeles. The experience there was completely different. They immediately recognized the protection plan, honored it with no problem, and even handled shipping the camera out for warranty repair themselves. It was quick, professional, and exactly what I expected when buying expensive gear from a specialty camera shop. While I was in Pasadena, I also asked about a medium format camera they had for sale. The staff told me they could not guarantee that the camera worked. Out of curiosity I went to another camera business nearby and learned that they were actually the shop that repaired that exact camera and said it was fully functional. So unfortunately the Pasadena store left me with very little confidence. For high-end camera equipment, knowledge and service really matter. The Los Angeles Samy's location, on the other hand, was excellent and handled everything the way it should have been done in the first place. read more

Amazing imaging equipment and services. Not too many places exist like Samy's anymore. Whether you need old school cameras or film, photography classes or equipment, large-size imaging/scanning services, or general audio/visual training or help, this is the place to come. Very friendly service, free-standing store with parking in the back. Not the most economical, but they have a broad selection and everything you'll need. read more

I recently got a Sony point and shoot and needed to get an sd card and a few other accessories so I decided to check out Samy for the first time! It's in a good location with plenty of parking in the back. Everything is super organized inside and it was easy to navigate even for a beginner. The staff here are all very nice and knowledgeable. I love that their online catalog is current so I can always check if something is in stock in store before making the drive over. read more

Samy's camera is my favorite place to buy camera gear. The staff at Sammy's is super helpful very knowledgeable. It can answer almost any question you have about cameras or photography in general. I just wish they were open on Sundays. So many camera stores are long gone nowadays, but hopefully Sammy's will stick around. read more

Sammy's Camera in East Pasadena on Colorado Boulevard has a great reputation for price and advice. They deal with all things camera and video, as well as studio setup, lighting and sound. They have never disappointed me when I needed something. Their location is between Allen Avenue and Pasadena City college. When I was there, there was a diverse clientele. You are greeted immediately upon opening the door in the back by the parking lot. I was able to walk around and look to see what items were in the store. They have a very diverse selection. From office to professional photographer or videographer. After looking at a number of bags and carrying cases I decided to find out more information about lighting. I was interested in trying to find a pocket sized light for photography with my phone. I walked to the counter and was greeted with a friendly smile. When I queried the associate about what was available I was given a number of selections. Some were too big and some a different setup that was not available on my phone. I was shown two items to compare that were in my price range and satisfied my lighting needs. I was not pressed in any way to purchase any of the items. That's not often the case in other camera shops. There were plenty of associates available behind counters as well as walking the floor. As I left the parking lot was busy. They also have parking on the side street nearby. They are open every day except Sunday. If you have camera video accessory needs this is definitely the place to go. read more

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Stephanie was so kind to me as someone who is very new to camera lenses! Very knowledgeable, helpful, and nonjudgmental - I've experienced the complete opposite in the past so this was such a pleasant corrective experience. I'm so excited about my new Sony lens and SD card! Thank you Stephanie! read more

This is one of the last of the traditional camera scores. It has a knowledgeable staff carries both digital and film equipment. They have a rental department for cameras and lighting, and if it's the place to go if you're a professional or an amateur wanting good advice parking in back. read more

This place is amazing I have a canon t8i and everytime I walk in I am greeted by the staff and when I need something they have it in stock will definitely continue to do my business here at Samys camera for future needs and will recommend people here read more

Samy's Camera - My Cannon t8i - Photography Stores & Services Near Me - Pasadena, California

Boy I had made a mistake. The kind that I typically make fun of other less fortunate photogs. I had charged my battery before I left for this trip. I was only going to shoot for a few hours and thus did not bring my whole kit with me. Was setting up my gear the day before and apparently I had not charged the battery. The Z9 I shoot with precludes just heading to Target and getting something. I needed a store like Samy's to save the outing They had the charger I needed and after a bit of a drive, I was back in business. Service was top notch and while I would have loved to spend hours poking around the store I was in and out fast. Thank you Samy's read more

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

I've been a loyal customer of Samy's Camera for 25 years, and I can't speak highly enough about my experiences, especially thanks to Jim Endo and many other members of the Samy's team over the decades. From my very first visit, Jim was incredibly welcoming and knowledgeable about the equipment I was interested in. His genuine passion for professional video and photography really shines through in every interaction. Jim takes the time to understand what I need, offering valuable advice and insights on various products without ever being pushy. I've made many purchases over the years--from cameras, lenses, lights, audio to accessories. This time is was audio and camera needs. Not only is he an expert in his field, but he also provides good customer service, making sure I leave the store feeling good about my purchases. It's clear that Jim and other members of the team cares about customers and their photographic journeys. Overall, Samy's Camera has been my go-to place for all things photography, and Jim Endo is one of the many reason why, I wholeheartedly recommend visiting the stores. Yes, there are times when I make purchases with Best Buy or B&H, but I try to make my equipment purchases in town whenever possible. We have to support local businesses, or there won't be stores like Sammy's any more. read more

Samy's Camera is a camera store in Southern California with four locations in Los Angeles (close to Los Angeles County Museum of Art), Pasadena, Playa Vista, and Santa Ana. I didn't realize specialty camera shops like this still exist especially with the widespread use of iPhone and Android cameras. [Parking]: There's easy and free street parking available, but they also have free parking behind the store. [Services]: Camera sales, video Sales, photo classes, and camera rentals. Heck they even sell collectible cameras/lenses/accessories. [Visit]: I came here to purchase a portfolio binder and found a solid selection. Prices were also not far off from Amazon. I had to return to the store because the binder size wasn't right, but the exchange process was smooth and hassle-free. The staff was helpful and friendly. [Conclusion]: This is definitely the shop to check out for camera enthusiasts and I am bumping the rating up to 5-star due to friendly service. read more

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I came here looking for some film camera equipment and some 35mm film. The workers were very friendly and knowledgeable on their film stocks. They had a wide selection of film stocks including the popular portra 400s and fuji C200s. I ended up getting a 3 pack of fuji 400s for a decent price. This place apparently also does film developing for a reasonable price too based on what they showed me on their website. I look forward to trying their developing and scanning later on. read more

Samy's Camera - Leica M6 on display - Photography Stores & Services Near Me - Pasadena, California

I came in the other day to buy an attachment for my Canon flash so I can shoot off the mount and Brian and Stephanie were incredible with their help. I had some other questions about my Canon flash and they were so patient in going over some more things with detail as we did a little deep dive with off mount shooting. I was so incredibly grateful for their help and just how they handled everything. I never feel rushed, I always feel really taken care of at Samy's Thank you so very much read more

Samy's Camera - DJI RS 2 - Photography Stores & Services Near Me - Pasadena, California

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All the gear and equipment you need to film or photograph are here. There is a rental department too. Dena is knowledgeable about film products and processing wise. read more

Update: 5 Stars! The issue below was handled so professionally and I truly appreciate the length Jason went to, to make sure I left a happy customer. Thank you again, Jason! Let me start with the fact that I have loved Samy's for a long time, recommending them to anyone who asked me what my favorite camera store is in LA. The selection and knowledgeable staff are great, so it was a real surprise when I recently got a roll of film developed and received the worst quality scans I've ever gotten back from a lab. I paid $25 a roll for development and the highest resolution TIF scans and what I got back was quite frankly unacceptable for the price. Every scan was blurry, and about half of them had a lot of dust on the negatives when they were scanned. I know it's not my fault due to focusing issues, for example the landscape photo I've added here was shot with an infinite focal length. The sky has a lot of blotchy digital artifacts, you can see the dust that was scanned and how blurry the shot is overall. (Also shown is the photo zoomed in to 100%) It's also disheartening to see other people having the same issue here on other Yelp reviews. When I dropped off the film, the guy asked me if I wanted to keep my negatives, initially I said no and then he asked "Are you sure?" which swayed me to keep them. I'll just say that I'm glad I kept the negatives because I feel like I paid $75 for my 3 rolls of film only to have to scan them again myself. read more

Samy's Camera - 100% zoomed "Highest Quality" scan - Photography Stores & Services Near Me - Pasadena, California

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Great selection of cameras and filming equipment. With plenty of knowledgeable staff who are always willing to help you out. Looking forward to taking some classes that they have to offer. read more

jim endo is the absolute best!!! my boyfriend is trying to rig his fx3 and we came in and jim was so knowledgeable and extremely patient with all our questions!! he took the time to explain the differences between our options & helped us order anything that wasn't physically in store to be shipped there from the warehouse! came here two days in a row with questions that were answered from jim, we forever will be coming here & going straight to him!! read more

After seeing the news segment that Samy's founder passed, I remembered that I had in my possession an old Canon 35mm camera (1990). My 10yo son has turned his Martin to cameras now. He was excited to visit Samys to find batteries and film. It was exciting to see the joy on his face taking his own money to buy items. Prices were very well within his budget. The staff at this location were very friendly and extremely helpful. All staff members were very attentive and one could tell that they love cameras and their jobs. We will definitely revisit. read more

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I had a serious audio problem with a Sony video recording. I called B/H and a few others. They were perplexed. Yesterday I called JIM in video at Samy's Pasadena. After listening to the details of my situation, he solved the audio problem, knowing the camera and wireless system I have. (both Sony) Not only does Jim have vast knowledge, he knows how to listen patiently and provided an extremely accurate diagnosis. Samy's, you are very fortunate to have Jim on your staff. Jim, thank you again !!! read more

Samy's Camera - Fire one to Jim ! - Photography Stores & Services Near Me - Pasadena, California

I came here over Labor Day weekend and rented a lens on Thursday. I got it for a good price and was able to test out a new lens before buying it. read more

Stephanie, you are the best! Thank you for your wonderful customer service and for helping me when I picked up my new Nikon Z and many other accessories. You will always be my go-to person at that store. Best regards. read more

Over the past few years, Samy's has become my go-to for any camera needs! Been coming here ever since I got serious about my camera work and they almost always have exactly what I need and more - and all the staff have been SO friendly, knowledgeable, and super helpful. I always have a great experience! They recently had an awesome 3-day anniversary extravaganza with tons of great classes and sales and all sorts. I attended some of the classes and they were invaluable - both for photography AND filmography!! The classes and staff were even able to help me finally settle on what macro lens would best serve my needs - which is an issue I've been trying to resolve for over a year! Samy's has tons of camera gear and accessories, as well as all sorts of supplies to help with any creative projects you may be working on. Sometimes they give coupons for free sensor cleanings with purchases which I've also used in the past and was very happy with! I laughed when I read my first review from several years ago when I first started visiting Samy's - I've come so far in my camera work and definitely have to say, Samy's prices are comparable to anything online and often have better deals, especially when they have sales. And if you can't find it in the store, they'll happily order it for you! I love the Pasadena location - it's surrounded by tons of shops and restaurants and right across from PCC. Very walkable area. They have a small parking lot in back and there's also lots of street parking - everything in the area has a one hour limit so be aware. I'll definitely be keeping Samy's as my go-to fave local spot for all my creative needs! Huge thanks for everyone for all the help over the years! read more

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On behalf of the guy with his grandpa's camera: I recently inherited my grandpa's old camera and brought it into the store with little knowledge about how it worked. Chris went above and beyond to help me. Not only did he take the time to carefully explain everything about the camera, but he also made sure I understood how to properly use and care for it. His patience, knowledge, and genuine enthusiasm made the entire experience enjoyable and memorable. It's rare to find someone who cares that much about both the equipment and the customer. Chris, you're a gem--thank you for making this special moment even more meaningful! read more

I was looking for a Canon G7x for retail price because I did not want to pay 1.5k on Amazon and I am aware that the g7x is super hard to get but they had it! 12/13/25 I got the last one and the workers were super nice and helpful. read more

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

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I came here to look for an intro camera. Juan was very friendly and professional. He answered all my questions patiently. It made me feel I was being taken good care of. Thank you, Juan! read more

On the referral from another B&W film shooter from church, I went to Samy's in Pasadena where I had the pleasure of speaking with Phil regarding the development and scanning of 35mm and 120 B&W films. Phil was very helpful and explained the process in detail to me to include what can happen if you cut your developed roll of 35mm film negatives. Because of a bad experience with a camera shop in Monrovia, I really needed to talk to someone with real knowledge and customer service skills, and that was Phil. Thanks, Phil, for explaining your film development, scan and rescan processes. I bought a thumb drive and I'll definitely be back with some film to get processed. read more

I find the sales team to be very helpful. I am especially appreciative of the NO SALES TAX days, when they are offered! I was not ready with my selection when the most recent NO TAX day was announced and could not decide which lens to get. Clem was so very patient and helpful and just want to give him a shout-out. read more

Frank was so so helpful! As someone newer to cameras it can get really overwhelming but Frank really took his time explaining, offering recommendations, explaining everything honestly really made it a great experience! I got the zve10 mark 2 read more

Had an awesome experience at Samys camera today. Really helpful staff, specifically Gabriel who was patient and helpful in explaining how to use /set up the new camera we bought. We would come back again just because of Gabriel!! read more

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

Damion Poirier helped me and was sooo incredibly knowledgeable and kind and didn't give up until the problem was solved!! I'll definitely be back!!! read more

I came here mainly for professional art paper and inks. Most of the times, they have what I want. Good selection of art / photo paper from Epson, Premier, Canon , Moab..etc from 4"x6" to 17"x22".. if you need big roll paper, they also have some. This place also has a lot of Camera gear..of course...it's a camera store lol But it was always one of the better ones in LA for decades! Service is good! Parking in the rear or street parking! They take all cards. read more

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Big shoutout to Juan and especially Frank for all of his help. Great guy and was patient with me for more than a month while I got all my finances and choices in order. Been coming to samys for years and will keep coming. Great shop great staff. Thanks guys read more

Pasadena City College recently purchased Westcott lighting equipment from Samy's Pasadena. I love using our new equipment. Thank you Jackie for your advice. Richshell PCC Strategic Communications and Marketing read more

After I rescanned my roll, I'm very happy with my film roll development from Samy's! (Attached images of rescans) It was a bit upsetting that I had to redo the work I paid for, but the managers response to my original review has shown me that this business does still care about quality. While I unfortunately could not return back to have the work redone (I was in town only for a short time), having that offered to me was appreciated. I did add a star for great customer service and good development as I feel it was earned! read more

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I love Samy's camera. Everyone is always helpful and patient with all of my questions. I always find what I need when I'm here- most times, some extra goodies too. Prices are great and comparable to online deals. Lastly, you can rent equipment at a great price- best way to test equipment before making a major purchase! It's great to have a family feel camera shop I can visit. read more

I've been coming to Samy's at least once a week for the past month not only to rent equipment but my personal equipment got stolen and Frank helped me get a new set up! He helped me pick the right camera for what my needs were and helped me choose the new Sony A7Cii I was never fortunate enough to buy a new camera but Frank made the entire process so easy and even helped me set it up! Thank you Frank for helping me out with the best prices and also the best customer service I could have ever asked for. All their workers are so kind especially in rentals and Jim in the Video department. This will and forever will be my new home for camera equipment. I love the experience of being able to know what you're getting and asking all the right questions. Stop buying stuff online! Get educated by people that have been doing this for more than I have been around! read more

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

Best camera store in Los Angeles, customer service is top notch. They have every brand available, used selection is great too. Prices are fantastic. read more

They have anything you need for photography resources so that's really nice! Chris @ the Film section was not very helpful. When I tried to ask questions, being that I just inherited this camera from my late grandfather, so I am naturally curious. Yet he responded in a condescending manner that made me feel uncomfortable to ask for further help/assistance. Not sure if I will be returning. But a great selection of any needs for film/digital, at good prices. read more

I ordered some last minute prints (400+) of family photos (online) on a Sunday (when they're closed) and I needed them latest by Monday afternoon. When I called on Monday morning, I was told that the prints are actually done at the Fairfax location and then sent over to Pasadena and so there was no guarantee I could get them that day. I then called the Fairfax location and they told me that the order was already complete and was on its way to Pasadena. Bear in mind that they had completed my order before they had even opened on a Monday morning! I was beyond thrilled. An hour later, I received a text for order pickup. The pictures were carefully packaged and in pristine condition not to mention their top notch print quality. And the cost is perfectly reasonable. I'm never going back to the pharmacy printers. So lucky to have a Samy's near me! Their service and staff are the absolute best. read more