Wilson Camera — Local services in Scottsdale

Be aware, NO RETURNS, NO REFUNDS, NO EXCHANGES!!! ALL SALES ARE FINAL!!! I needed a camera for work to take pictures of sports events. I sought out Wilson Camera because they were locally owned and I like to support the community. They were very informative and patient with my questions, and had somewhat comparable prices to larger retailers. However, I ultimately choose Wilson to purchase my camera from because their deal, although it was $50 more, came with free cleanings, free classes, lifetime support for use of the camera and they threw in an SD card to go with my purchase. I decided on a $1300 camera and an additional $600 lens. I paid a deposit because they said they needed to order it because they didn't have any in stock, but they NEVER mentioned that ALL SALES were FINAL before or after taking my deposit and handing me my receipt. As I drove home, I decided it was too much for me to spend so I called as soon as I got home and they easily took off the additional lens and NEVER mentioned anything about ALL SALES being FINAL. They called 5 days later and told me my camera was in stock. When I went to pick it up, they were again, very friendly and started to take the camera and all the parts out of the box to show me, but I was in a bit of a rush so I said I didn't have time to look at each part right then. When I handed over my credit card for the remaining part of the balance, I asked about their return policy. Finally, that is when the sales guy said they DON'T TAKE RETURNS but they had a consignment program and could resell my camera at HALF its value. (So, it isn't even out of the store, still in its box, I haven't even touched it, nor has he handed me the receipt and the guy tells me, with a smirk no less, that it isn't even worth what I paid 30 seconds prior. Sweet.) I asked what happens if the camera is somehow defective or worse and I want it replaced. I was told they would NOT replace it, but they could probably diagnosis/fix whatever the issue is (for a fee), or I would need to contact the manufacturer. I was dumbfounded...I had NO IDEA I just purchased a $1300 camera; sight unseen and I could not get it fixed for free, return it/exchange it/get store credit, nothing. I felt like I was going to throw up because I was so upset. To make matters worse, I found out on the way home from the store, I no longer needed to take pictures for my job...I called the store again, begging a possible return, and they said they couldn't do anything. I called again the next day (Saturday) to talk to the owner/manager and the guy that answered said he had to call his manager because she was not there, but that they have it posted on the wall that ALL SALES ARE FINAL and pointed out that it was on my receipt, in super small print, at the bottom as well (the first time I had seen it.) The guy called back several hours later and said his manager said they would NOT take it back and that they had to stick by their NO RETURN policy no matter what. They also didn't give me the SD card they promised. I am a novice camera user. I previously had a point and shoot camera but mostly used my iphone and this was my first purchase of a nice DSLR, and I am hating every minute of it. I haven't opened the box. I have no clue if they sold me some used camera they had in the back. There was no security seal or manufacturer seal on it at all. It could be totally broken and I can do nothing about it. DO NOT GO TO THIS STORE. THIS IS THE WORST experience I...

Dear Wilson Camera Team,

It is with a heavy heart that I write this message, as I have long wished to support and help build our local film community. Regrettably, after numerous visits and opportunities given to address previous concerns, I find myself unable to recommend your store due to consistently disappointing experiences.

While your pricing is reasonable and competitive for a local business, my concerns stem from the interactions and overall treatment I've received during my visits. The film community is generally a positive and welcoming environment, but unfortunately, Wilson Camera has not upheld these standards for all its clients.

From my first visit, I encountered a lack of transparency and a sense of unwelcomeness. During my initial interaction, I asked several questions which were mostly answered. However, while examining a camera, a staff member took it out of my hand without asking, which felt discourteous. It appeared that my inquiries were perhaps unwelcome, as I was disregarded once another customer entered.

In another instance, I dropped off a roll of film to test your service. I found the communication about the longevity of the scan links unclear, as the link expired in 7 days, which is quite short compared to the standard 14 days offered by most places. While I was satisfied with the C-41 development and scans, the overall experience left me with a poor impression.

Hoping to give Wilson Camera another chance, I returned with my partner to utilize your 110 film development and scan service. Unfortunately, this visit was also marred by unprofessional behavior. A staff member demonstrated something by waving a stick near me and then joked about it, which felt inappropriate for a customer interaction.

Further, I encountered issues with pricing transparency. I purchased film at what I believed was a great price, only to find out at checkout that the price was different, and the displayed prices were subsequently removed.

The final issue arose with the development and scanning of ECN-2 film. Your website listed the service at $15, but I was charged an additional $10 for high-resolution scanning. The website has since been updated. When I received the scans, they had visible lines, and upon questioning, the staff attributed this to the ramjet layer, a claim that contradicted information I found online to confirm my own scanning and developing process, suggesting mishandling as the cause. The dismissive response I received—essentially telling me to take my business elsewhere—was particularly off-putting.

In conclusion, while I appreciate the efforts of some of your staff, it is evident that there are gaps in knowledge and customer service that need addressing. I sincerely hope Wilson Camera can improve these aspects to better serve and grow our local film community. Regrettably, I will not be returning, and I hope no one else has to endure similar experiences.

Thank you for your time and attention. You will not be receiving any more of...

I have had nothing but fantastic experiences at Wilson. As someone who has shot film for upwards of 15 years, I’ve used loads of different film labs all across the country and Wilson continues to be my top choice.

My best friend and I stumbled on Wilson about a year and a half ago when we were searching for some used film cameras and it instantly became our go to (even for me, who lives in Nashville, TN).

The staff has always been insanely nice and helpful with any questions I may have and unlike other labs they don’t ever talk down on you or make you feel like you don’t know what you’re talking about (as a woman in the photography world, shooting film - this happens a lot). They really do get to know you and your work which is something I haven’t had at any other film lab.

I can’t even count how many rolls I’ve gotten developed here over the last year and a half. They have a very fast turnaround time with very transparent pricing and amazing quality. There’s only been one time where my scans didn’t come back perfect (which was in their transition to having a second location). The staff was quick to respond and hop on a call with me to dial in those scans and make them perfect for med no extra charge and was done within a day.

Overall a very considerate and knowledgeable staff that will continue to be my number one choice for a film lab. 1000/10 recommend them to anyone looking for a...