Southeastern Camera — Local services in Carrboro

Great store for equipment but not a super welcoming staff. I feel like the prices for developing film were not clear until I got there, and expensive if you ask me, I paid $58 for two rolls of film to be developed and scanned in. When I looked online it said $8 per roll, well I guess I didn’t read enough because they charge separately for developing them and scanning them and then making prints which I do not understand as a photographer who used to develop my own photos. It is one process to develop the negatives into photos. There may be multiple steps but that is one thing. And scanning in digitally is extra. I expected to pay some more maybe on top of that for shipping or something but not almost $30 a roll. When I was there I was asked if I wanted digital scans sent to me and I said no, that’s okay (I could do this myself) but then was told scanning them digitally was mandatory which was an extra $20 for both rolls. Why even ask? And I prepaid which I have not had to do at other places even CVS as they usually let you review the photos and only pay for the prints you take. Then when I came to pick them up they charged me an extra $5 because “the film was harder to develop” I am not sure why. An extra dip in the chemicals? It makes no sense. Either way I expected to pay about $20-30 for two rolls to be developed (I also thought they did this in house but they send it off) and ended up paying $63 total. And my prints do not look good. My digital scans look great but my prints are matte which I don’t know why, I didn’t request that, and they are very dark. Like I said I’m happy with my digital scans so I just don’t know why the prints, the whole point, didn’t turn out well. I’m just disappointed. I am living in poverty and $63 is a lot of money to me. I know it’s a more expensive hobby and maybe prices have just adjusted with inflation but I...

An iconic Carrboro business that takes the hassle out of making important decisions about your camera needs. The advice has always been exactly what I was seeking and the prices have always been lower than both local big box stores and on-line discounters, which is surprising to many. Though the quintessential photog destination in this region, they seem to somehow have everything for every age and kind of photographer. The people behind the counter are all pros and enthusiasts who can compare any two cameras in their own head and tell you which is better for your needs. Because they are enthusiasts first, they don't seem to mind if they don't carry the model that works best for you and you need to go elsewhere. That said, they seem to have almost everything and I haven't had to do that. They are also happy to order something they don't have in stock if you are willing to wait a few days. This is the kind of store people reminisce about and mourn when they are lost to a community. This place does everything right and deserves my money more than anywhere else. I'd be glad to pay a premium for their products. Fortunately, that is...

Chris and Dennis at Southeastern Camera Carrboro are truly helpful and knowledgeable especially for the pro shooter. The team offers technical advice on equipment from high-end, new technology like mirrorless systems to mechanical solutions for a studio like light mounting systems. These pros take the time to keep up to date so my team can spend more time and energy creating artful imagery for our clients.

Additionally, SEC rents equipment which is an important aspect of any smartly managed studio. The pricing is fair and the equipment is reliable, clean, and comes with a carrying case (usually a hip belt case for lenses). Plus, the used equipment is priced to sell and, if the Carrboro store doesn’t have it, you can almost always head to the Raleigh store where Tony probably does have what you’re looking to buy.

One thing that I believe is important is SEC gets the same deals as the “out of town”, jumbo camera stores and will match prices. You get the same price, no delivery fees, and a knowledgeable person all while supporting a local business. I’m a 20+ year customer. 5-stars for our local, friendly camera...