Leica Store and Gallery Los Angeles — Attraction in West Hollywood

I visited the Leica store today to purchase the newly released camera. After hearing that the awaited product had arrived, I made a reservation and waited. While waiting for my contact who was on a call, a petite older woman approached me. I felt extremely uncomfortable and rude vibes from her behavior, expressions, and gaze, which were clearly indicative of racial discrimination. Despite my attempts to request additional purchases, she ignored me and proceeded to the checkout counter with a dismissive attitude. This is not the first time I've encountered her; she previously ignored my inquiries and instead approached her own customers, neglecting my presence. Today, I realized her discriminatory actions, and her expressions and gestures confirmed my suspicions. Despite paying the same price for Leica cameras as everyone else, her uniquely poor treatment makes me feel disheartened. I'll have to revisit this store for additional purchases, but the thought of encountering that woman again is disheartening. I hope she refrains from discriminating against people of Asian descent.

Additional note: When I initially wrote this review, I couldn't address certain aspects due to significant discomfort and feelings of disrespect towards a specific female staff member. The employee who actually helped me was John. He listened to all my questions about the camera and did his best to explain everything he knew. For areas where verbal explanations fell short, he went to the back of the store himself to bring out samples. John always made an effort to listen during our conversations and didn't forget to provide detailed advice on using the camera, such as initial setup, focusing, and various accessories. I was feeling quite hurt by the female staff here, but John's attentiveness eased my feelings. Honestly, I don't want to revisit this store, but since the Leica store is the only one in LA where I reside, if I do return, I will definitely...

I went to gallery showing of 4 5maybe six wonderful photographers. A director I work for has been exhibiting his work here in Europe, New York.

He’s doing what’s called now: street photography. Black and white. The show was outstanding. I went with a friend on a Saturday. Maybe four people were there.

20 minutes into it, it dawned on me that I was in that exact space in the early 90s when it was there’s happening Restaurant.

Like the gallery, it was two stories. The same staircase. The back walls, both upstairs and downstairs were pushed further back. The way it laid out now makes the entire environment personal.

It’s all allows you to have a personal experience as opposed to being in, what it used to be, when it gave the feeling of being a cavernous room.

The photography was upstairs. There is a nice leather bench. Late 50s 60s design.

Downstairs are the great cameras. From the moment you walk in, a man opens the glass door you step in everything is aligned. Everything has a purpose. It’s all done in a very clear straight lines. Nothing ostentatious.

It’s on Beverly Boulevard 45 to 60 feet east of Robertson Boulevard on the north side of the street. It has a very convenient parking area. No meters no valet you park your own car.

Regardless of what (shew) is being presented going there as a first stop before lunch or before another part of the adventure of your day that would be a great...

I was lucky enough to have Chern answer the phone at the Leica Store when I called in late 2024 looking to purchase a new M11. I had shot an M6 many years ago but hadn't picked up a Leica rangefinder since. Chern was knowledgeable, kind, understanding and extremely helpful. Not only that, but he's a professional working photographer and actually uses the cameras he sells.

I came to the store the next day and walked out with a new M11-P and two lenses. Chern took the time to help me unbox the camera, register my warranty and made sure I understood how everything worked and that I felt comfortable with my new gear. Having purchased more cameras and gear from Chern since, and seeing him at the wonderful and numerous events hosted at the Leica Gallery, I happily now consider him a friend, as well.

Leica makes the best cameras in the world and their sales staff and experience should live up to that standard. I can happily say that Chern, Michael, London and the rest of the wonderful staff at Leica Store Los Angeles does and I wouldn't hesitate to make another purchase from them again...