The Photo Shop — Local services in San Luis Obispo

I want to write this review to let others know that they will most likely have a better experience developing film elsewhere. I am relatively new to the area (a one-year resident) and have been shooting 35mm film for five years. I love supporting local shops, which is why I’ve given this place two chances. Unfortunately, both experiences left me disappointed. First, their film prices are about three to six dollars higher than B&H Photo, so you can save money by purchasing elsewhere. My main concern, however, is their inconsistency and lack of communication regarding developing times. I was told the turnaround time for developing would be 7–10 days, but it actually took more than 25 days with no updates. I’ve called politely to check on the status, not to be bothersome, and each time I was told it would be ready “this week,” with the explanation that there might be a delay in shipping it elsewhere for processing. I had no prior knowledge that they outsource their developing. For comparison, you could send your film to most online developers and have it back often in a few days, and at a lower cost. Further more I kindly asked for a discount and was told that they would not be able to give me any type of compensation. I don’t like leaving bad reviews, and I’m genuinely sad that I will no longer be doing business with my local photo shop. But I hope sharing my experience helps others make an...

What a treat to visit an independent camera store! The internet & mass merchants have made it difficult for small specialty shops to survive. This shop has carved out a special niche with its combination of new and pre owned camera equipment and photo supplies along with kind, knowledgeable staff to support their personalized service. I stumbled in there last week to browse as I was passing through town, but plan to return this coming week to hopefully buy some gear. My appreciation goes to the owner & staff for bucking the trend and keeping a local camera shop available to us photo enthusiasts. 👍

UPDATE: I did return and purchased a camera & lens at a very fair price. It was honestly represented and an enjoyable buying experience. Even their after sales service was amazing. They do care about their customers. Thanks again - I'll see you whenever I'm on the...

Long story short: pretty pricey film and the guy in the corner was condescending.

Buying 400 fujifilm 35mm/36 shots here was $17.50. at a similar store such as freestyle photography the same film goes for 8.99.

As for the guy in the corner watching youtube. He was condensing when it comes to looking at a camera. Looking for a CCD camera, And asked if they had one. They said “No” but infact after further looking around they did have one.

We asked to look at it and asked a few basic questions. Such as what’s the image count and does it fully work. These two questions came with a harsh tone. He said he couldn’t tell the frame count and then explains how to do it after? But still does not check it. And after asking if it was in working order he seemed to take offense and stated he wouldn’t sell it if...