Exceptional knowledge and service. Frank A. is my go-to expert for anything related to photography. I recently struggled with replacing the proprietary ball joint on my Elgato Key Light because it wouldn't accept a standard 1/4" thread or conventional ball joint. Frank immediately showed me how to remove the original ball joint and replace it with a standard one, giving me the flexibility to mount the Key Light on a post. What took me hours of searching and frustration, Frank solved in just a few seconds. On top of that, he recommended a Ulanzi quick-release ball joint that works perfectly with my setup. Thank you so much, Frank. I'm still enjoying the SONY ZV-E10 I purchased from you. If I could, I would give Frank 10 stars! read more

Samy's Camera - Ball joint. - Photography Stores & Services Near Me - Santa Ana, California

Man.... Talk about a horrific experience. I don't like to write bad reviews but this one is necessary. I came here twice to buy a camera and both times I was "helped" by terrible people. First time I came to Sammy's I told the salesperson I was new to photography and apologized for asking so many questions He looked very bothered by me. Small Latino guy. I was looking at a camera excited to buy it and asked him another question about the shutter button. He then responds and I quote "I'll be happy to answer that after you buy it." I was in complete shock. I said what did you say? I stared at him very seriously. He then smirks and says nothing it was a bad joke. I reply a very bad joke. And I let it go. I could tell this guy did not care about his job or customers. Unfortunately I still bought the camera. Second time was 10 times worse!!!!! Thanks to Michael. I came to return the camera I bought with everything in the box. Michael tells me that I am missing a black lens cap. I tell him are you sure? Because I'm sure everything is in there. He then responds I'm sure. I told him do you mind opening another box so we can both be sure I am missing a "black lens cap." He then brings me another model of the camera I have and says "see. You are missing this". I tell him that is not the same model, do you mind opening the same model. He then tells me "this is standard sir." And refuses to get the same model of camera to check if I am missing the lens cap. So I left. I walked out of there confused. I swore everything was in there. I drove back home and looked for about an hour and a half and could not find this missing "lens cap". I decided to go on YouTube to look up the unboxing of my camera. Turns out it never came with another black lens cap. Michael was wrong. He made me waste hours of my day off by driving back and forth looking for a "missing" lens cap that did not exist. All because he was too arrogant to open the same model box I asked him to do and check before giving me false information. Michael was cocky and arrogant and never apologized to me. The one star Is for the manager Barry who did apologize to me and was professional at all times. I hope this review helps future customers and management. read more

Super helpful! They're straight to the point, so it's always a quick in and out. They usually have just one or two of what I want so it's always better to just buy it then if you want it. read more

Rick is the best! Great customer service. I have a Nikon Zfc and honestly wasn't loving it at first, but Rick took the time to help me understand it and showed me how to get the most out of my camera. Thanks to him, I'm now super excited to go out and take pictures. Definitely going back! read more

Michael & Bill were exceptional in helping me with my camera needs! I started off with Bill and he educated me on several products in the store in relation to what I needed. He also made me Laugh a bunch which was fun to have that kind of banter! When I started inquiring about microphones and audio equipment, Michael took over and was also incredibly knowledgeable and gave me a lot to think about. Overall I always have had a great experience at Samy's and with those helping me! I'll definitely be back when I need to make a purchase! read more

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Super helpful people, really saved us for Coachella we needed this specific charger and they had it!

Went to Sammy's with my 20-year-old daughter to support her on a significant purchase, a new camera body (Canon R6 II) and lens (RF 70-200MM) totaling over $6K. She was nervous and had a lot of questions. Bill and Rick were abosutly amazing. They answered every question with patience, offered honest guidance, and never tried to oversell. They made sure she felt confident in what she was buying and that it would serve her specific photography needs. As a father, that meant a lot. Thank you. As a customer, it was the kind of service experience you don't find anymore. Two camera enthusiasts who are deeply knowledgeable but also genuinely interested in educating and helping the customer. That is a rare combination. We'll be back for future needs. read more

From the moment, I was thinking about buying a camera to the moments I was calling on the phone, asking for opinions about certain cameras and getting technical help to after buying the camera when I still need a technical help this place really sent me at ease and removed a lot of stress everyone that works there is incredibly knowledgeable about photography and the art surrounded around it plus lots of experience. I have to say this typically I'm buying accessories from Amazon just cause it's easier but honestly, you have to come here. The prices are pretty good and you will not find these at other places I'm gonna tell you the team goes far and beyond to help you understand everything because they really care. read more

Really helpful staff. Patient and informative. They have a wide selection of new/used cameras and lens. Their prices are pretty standard, but the good thing is you can test out cameras in-store vs buying online. The only disappointment I had was the employee offering me free stuff to make the camera seem like a very good deal. I realized later on that the free stuff already came with the camera if you checked their online store. They didn't even offer me the free stuff to begin with. Only after I was a little hesistant to buy the camera, then they offered me 1-2 small accessories. So essentially, if I just bought it right away, I would've been scammed 1-2 free accessories that was supposed to be part of the original deal. Besides that little hustle, I thouht the store was okay. I returned a lens and got a different one. No complications there. Still a camera store I would go to next time but check their online store first to make sure I'm not getting skimmed off any free items that was supposed to be included with the camera/lens I would buy in the future. read more

The service is wonderful, Justin looked over my seriously older camera and told me what I needed and was very pleasant to deal with for discussing service. read more

A fantastic experience and a great deal on my new camera! ​I had a wonderful time shopping for a new camera here. The salesperson, Frank, was incredibly helpful and knowledgeable. He listened to what I was looking for, answered all my questions, and helped me find the perfect camera for my needs. ​Not only did he provide excellent service, but they also gave me a fantastic deal that made the purchase even better. I truly appreciate their honesty and expertise. I'm so excited to start using my new camera! ​I highly recommend this store to anyone looking for a camera. Ask for Frank for a great experience! Salamat Frank!, sa uulitin! read more

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

Rick was the absolute GOAT!! Shop was closing but we had a concise exchange about the product we were looking and we were in and out in a minute. Super knowledgeable and super friendly even came out of the shop after close to ensure everything was a-ok read more

I've been on the hunt for the Fujifilm X100VI for months with no luck, so I stopped by the store just to look around. Frank greeted me right away and told me I'd come at the perfect time when I mentioned I was looking for Fujifilm cameras. They had the last silver X100VI in stock! I honestly couldn't believe it because these cameras are always sold out. Priced at a great value as well!! Frank was so friendly and helpful throughout the whole process. He not only helped me get my first Fujifilm camera but also guided me on what accessories I'd actually need and took the time to explain their warranty, which gave me peace of mind. His positive energy made the whole experience exciting instead of overwhelming. If you're looking for a camera or just want expert advice, definitely ask for Frank. He's knowledgeable, approachable, and goes the extra mile. :) THANK YOU FRANK!!! yayyyyy read more

Samy's Camera - fujifilm x100vi - Photography Stores & Services Near Me - Santa Ana, California

Excellent customer service! Called to see if several items were in stock, since we would be driving over an hour to this location. Rick was incredibly knowledgeable and super helpful. Even setting items aside that were low in stock til we got there. We arrived about 80 minutes later and he had all our items, answered many questions, made some recommendations and helped us receive the best price possible. Ask about their discount for military, first responders & educators on select items. When many other stores were only offering to ship items 3rd party to us due to no stock, Samy's large selection allowed us to see and compare items being purchased. Thank you to Samy's & Rick McFarland for all your help. We will be back. read more

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

Well the owner Roui is a professional and dealing with Carlos today was amazing. I now understand my camera and feel good about my purchase. I also was able to purchase my Mother a new camera as well so this all worked out. Thank you Roui and Carlos. Now you have a customer for life. read more

Samy's Camera - refund issued after I had to call back and make manager aware his employee tried to rip me off. - Photography Stores & Services Near Me - Santa Ana, California

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I brought in my Vanguard Tri-pod to be fix.Justin stated Samy's does not carry Vanguard but he would contact the company. Not only was he able to contact the company, Vanguard sent him a "whole" new leg, Justin installed it and no additional cost. FABULOUS work Justin, and Thank you very, very much read more

First of all, I'd like to thank Frank for making this whole process such a breeze. I called in Tuesday to ask if they had this specific camera, Frank was my sales associate & he said no but we can put you on a back order waiting list, you can do it over the phone or come in person. I told him I'd go in person, so I did, I come in on Wednesday & Frank helps me get all my information put in & everything. Thursday, today comes in & calls me, hey I have your camera. I just picked it up and the process was absolutely a breeze. Frank was very efficient, patient & helpful. If anyone is looking for any camera needs, please visit this location. If possible, ask for Frank as well! I definitely recommend! read more

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

Called because I wanted to see if they sold a new/used camera I was looking for. The guy did not understand what I was asking so I explained but then he laughed and told me "if you buy a new camera and use it, isn't it used?" Immediately hung up. Gave me a horrible vibe and will not be coming in now to explore. read more

Samy's really goes above and beyond when it comes to customer service! I came in looking to buy a Sony A7C II and Frank was able to help us out. He is incredibly knowledgeable as an experienced photographer himself and patient enough to answer whatever questions I had about the process. Frank is awesome; they've made a repeat customer out of me and I couldn't recommend him enough if you decide to stop by at Samy's! read more

Kudos to Samy's Cameras sales expert, Michael (aka The Flying Dutchman). I am a professional photographer and have worked with Samy's for over 15 years. My primary Sales partner was not there today and I had the pleasure of meeting Michael. For the first time, I was there to purchase a Canon camera for my wife. She in a beginner photographer and Michael was great in explaining her options. She wanted a Canon R series camera (liked the feel) and with Michae's patient help and guidance, we purchased the Canon R50 camera package. We want to express our THANK YOU to Michael. The team is always there to provide support to professionals and first-time buyers. Thank you to the Samy's management team (Barry and Bill) for their continued excellent leadership. If you are seeking a camera, go to Samy's (Santa Ana) to get the expertise and support you deserve and need. Believe me, you do NOT get this expert service at BOX retail or Online sites. THANK YOU Michael and Samy's. read more

This place is honestly the worst camera shop I've ever been to not only are they completely rude and one of them is completely misogynistic, but they are completely unorganized. I've been trying to give them a chance since there's not that many camera shops out here but they're honestly the worst and I would avoid them at all cost. I will never go back there specifically that location the whole staff honestly needs to do better and be more respectful towards their female guests. I've been having issue after issue after issue from purchasing one of their cameras. Please support the other Camera shops. They treat you way more better and are highly qualified than anyone here!! read more

Incredible service! Mikel took the time to figure out my audio problem for my camera! Amazing work he figured it out and got me ready to film again! read more

Samy's Camera - My camera with my new mic set up! - Photography Stores & Services Near Me - Santa Ana, California

I came in looking for a starter camera for my wife and Rick did a fantastic job of explaining which Camera would be most suitable for her and why. She ended up loving it, and she's very excited to go into the shop herself and talk to the team! read more

Picked up a new Ricoh GRIII Diary Edition from Rick McFarland this week. Rick was amazing, turns out he had recently picked up his own GRIII. He shared with me a handful of photos he had taken with his on a recent trip, recommended all of the pertinent accessories/apps to get the most out of my new GRIII, and ensured I got piece of mind with the accidental handling insurance. Note that I came in just before closing, Rick did a fantastic job of getting me all set up with 12 month financing, gave me a great personal experience, all while masterfully dealing with a rush of customers just before closing (they seemed a bit short staffed). Thanks Rick! I'll be back soon for all of my camera needs! read more

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

We stopped by on a weekday and were helped by Frank They had a great selection of lenses and he was quite knowledgeable and friendly. There is a selection of new and used lenses. They offer discounts and reasonably priced warranties. The Plaza also has a number of other stores such as a dollar store, etc. read more

I recently called this location about the trading in experience and what that looked like. The man who answered the phone was less than enthusiastic answering how the process went, his response was so bland and sarcastic. I'm surprised this company is still in business. With so many other online retailers and camera companies that offer a pain free and seamless experience with trade ins, I thought I'd give a local company my business. This shirt phone call sealed the deal in never choosing Samy's for anything photography related. I don't understand how companies that have brick and mortar locations hire employees with less than stellar customer service in this environment. read more

From my first time in the store, Samy's Camera left an amazing impression on me. From briefly glancing around I saw a wide selection of services, (from purchasing film and accessories, to a wide selection of cameras and professional photography equipment), and all of the staff is very helpful and friendly! I was looking for a filter and some general advice on my camera and lenses, and all the staff were so kind. Even though I made a small purchase, staff took the time to tell me what they knew about not only my purchase, but also answered questions I had about my lenses and camera. As a beginner they were so helpful and encouraging, and pulled from their broad professional backgrounds to give me advice and tips I hadn't heard elsewhere. Can't wait to come back :) read more

This was my first time visiting Samy's Camera, and the service was amazing! Frank was super helpful and responsive with answering all my questions and helping me get my dream camera! I had been searching for this camera for 10 months, and Frank helped me find one in 3 days (and best of all... at RETAIL PRICE!). 100/10 rating if I could, definitely will be coming back! read more

Samy's is an easy spot to shop for your camera gears. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable. I've been here multiple times to buy & trade. A huge shoutout to Mikel for helping me find the right gear every time. read more

EXTREMELY DISRESPECTFUL!!! As a PAYING customer all you ask for is to be treated kindly & with respect. I had a very bad experience at this store. Started with a phone call asking to see if they had a product available. Was kept on hold for an extended time (which was no problem), when the employee picked up the phone she had a horrible attitude. Didn't seem to want to help or make a sale.... Seemed bothered that I was asking if they had a product in stock. Then, physically at the store was treated so disrespectful & seemed to not want to help me AGAIN ... sending me from one person to another with no one trying to help. Purchased the item needed but I will NEVER return to this establishment again. read more

My husband and I love this place for our camera needs. Frank has always been our go to guy when we need lenses and camera bodies. He takes really good care of us. He always lets us know that he sees us when we walk in when he is with another customer. He takes his time with each of his customers. Recently we purchased a couple of long lenses and the owner was there. She made it happen so that we got our lenses in 10 days and able to get the rebate!! THANK YOU!! read more

Great experience working with the Samy's Rental team in Santa Ana! Rented a ton of gear for a big commercial shoot in Newport Beach for the week, strobe, continuous, a variety of modifiers and grip equipment and everything went perfectly! Nelson was great to work with and had us all set from the word go - great product knowledge and experience! Rolling into town and having everything I needed ready to go made the shoot go off without a hitch! Can't recommend them enough! 10/10 read more

I had such a great experience at Samy's Camera! I called in to check if they had a specific camera in stock and spoke with Frank. He was super friendly and helpful from the start. He told me he would double check inventory and get back to me and he called me back the same day to let me know they had it. I came in the next day to pick it up and he made the whole process easy and stress-free. He answered all my questions, was patient, and just had really good customer service overall. He knows what he's doing and you'll be in good hands! read more

First-time buyer. I had an old Nikon D90 that had been with me for years, and didn't know if it was any good. Rick was amazing and so helpful. He helped me get credit for my old gear and assisted in finding a great used Fuji camera I love. He spent a great deal of time explaining the different options and even offered to give me some tips if I ever needed them. Overall, I will be coming back and continue to recommend Samy's to anyone who needs camera help or is a beginner like me. Special thanks to Bill also as he was very kind with his help. Thank You Rick and team! read more

This review is a shoutout to (I believe her name is Sara!) who is always working the film develop/drop off part of the store. Every time I go in to drop off some film, she is above and beyond friendly, helpful, and just goes out of her way to connect with you as a human. Always makes my day! read more

First time visiting this store I had buy some accessories for my new camera and Rick directed me in the right direction. Store full of photography knowledge read more

I would not go back. I walked in, there were about a dozen employees all behind the counter - not helping anyone. We interacted with three different employees. We were not able to get any answers to our questions. We did got some attitude from one person and dismissed By another. Went to a different camera shop in the same city. They were so knowledgeable and so friendly. read more

My girlfriend recently got me a film camera for Christmas and wanted to get it dialed in before I started using it. Thankfully one of the associates Preston was super helpful, he helped me walk through how to operate and use it properly. Will definitely be coming back! read more

I needed training on my Sony A6600 camera and Rode wireless mic kit. Jose is a fantastic trainer! He is extremely knowledgeable. He guided me through set-up steps with clear and thorough explanations. He is patient and very nice. I left the appointment without any question as to how to operate my equipment. Jose even taught me a couple of things about the equipment that went beyond what I "thought" I needed to know. I could tell he enjoys teaching and helping people. If you need to know how your stuff works, get in touch with him. Highly recommended. read more

my first time visiting this location to ask questions about a camera I had purchased in their LA store. The staff was accommodating and helpful so I will be back! read more