Category: | Photo Shop |
Address: | 618 Forest St, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA |
Phone: | +1 434-979-1915 |
Site: | procameraus.com |
Rating: | 4.8 |
Working: | 9AM–5:30PM 9AM–5:30PM 9AM–5:30PM 9AM–5:30PM 9AM–5:30PM 10AM–1PM Closed |
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Charles McAnany
Short version: A great store suited for enthusiasts and professionals. Super-knowledgeable staff. Richmond Camera is friendlier towards beginners, but has more limited stock. I consider myself a regular at this store now, and Ive had the most peculiar experiences here. Sometimes the staff is super-helpful and nice and sometimes they look at you like youre trespassing as soon as you walk in the store. It helps to remember that the staff here are experienced photographers, and my best experiences have been when I come in with an idea I want to explore and use the staffs expertise to guide me in selecting the appropriate equipment. You can always count on the staff being very knowledgeable and Ive always gotten great advice here. They dont try to upsell you to the fanciest product, they consider your needs and try to find the best gear for your situation. No online store will ever say "you really dont need that", and here its the norm. This applies in particular to used equipment. If you need a UV filter, theyll happily find a used one that suits your needs for a fifth the price of a new one. If you need a $75, optically-perfect, super-duper-multi-coated filter, they have those in stock, too. They have a great selection of used gear and while their prices are a bit above eBay, Im confident the people here would never try to sell me junk, and anything I get has been carefully inspected and found to work as it should. Ive never needed to return anything Ive purchased here. Visiting Pro Camera is always a kid-in-a-candy-store experience, the place is packed with beautiful classic cameras next to the latest and greatest technology. The "$10, no returns" lens bin is always fun to browse, and Ive actually been very happy with a 135/2.8 lens I got from this bin. Also take a gander at the beautiful 8x10 view camera with the 300/5.6 lens. Refreshingly, they dont play cheesy music in the store, you can explore at peace with your own thoughts. They do a great job developing film, though the turnaround times are a bit on the long side for E-6 process film. They also have a nice variety of films in stock. Overall, other than the occasionally gruff service, Ive found this to be a great source for my photographic needs. For a professional or serious amateur, this is a great store. The other store in town in Richmond Camera. They are friendlier, but their stock is more limited. Richmond camera is wonderful for beginners.
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Joe Y
Great collection of film cameras BUT one member of staff was rude to me, she was rushing me through the film processing service and made me feel like I was asking stupid questions as if she had no time for me. But the other staff member was really friendly and made time to talk to me about the 35mm cameras in store. After picking up my films I was going to buy more 35mm film but upon arrival a different member of staff was pretty rude to me too! Im not usually easily offended!
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William Guilford
This is the only place I will buy a camera. The staff are knowledgeable and helpful, and they have a surprisingly good selection of new cameras for such a small place. Their selection of used and vintage equipment is amazing! I only wish their hours were longer; its difficult to shop there given that they open after Im already at work, and close before I get off.
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Kreela Moore
I purchased a used fujifilm x-e2 from Procamera... I was shown how to use it before i left the store, and i was able to try it out first... I returned for another camera but it was not in stock... Later I received a followup phone call explaining why they did not carry it... He also gave me suggestions on where to lokk for it... Awesome service.
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Paul Zayas
I had one experience and I have to say it was pretty awesome. Turnaround times on camera fixes are crazy fast and their prices are perfect. I just wish I lived a little closer. If you have any camera issues do not hesitate to give them a call. They are now my official camera repair shop.
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Jay B
I went here for a simple adapter for my DSLR. The man that greeted me had the adapter on hand, showed me how to adjust it, cleaned my lens and shutter for free, and showed me some of his personal lenses. Excellent service, and a must go A+++.
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Serena Jae
Pro Camera is amazing and I would highly recommend this place for anyone looking to purchase a camera, film, or get repairs. Bill is extremely knowledgable and will take great care of you!
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michaelandcarina bethea
Just an amazing place. Bill and his staff are so experienced and so patient, kind and always on top of things. The only place that will service my cameras!
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Alan H
I just had 6 24"x36" prints made on their new Epson printer. I am a tough customer and I thought the results were flawless. Superb job!
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Williams Photography
Pretty helpful for an old camera well out of Nikon servicing. Am sending another item up for repair.
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Sam Moye
Great place to find any type of camera gear in charlottesville! Helpful friendly staff!
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Nancy Finn
Staff was very patient and answered all questions. .