So sad to have to say this. Whenever I've walked into Fireside I have never felt welcomed in any way. As a beginner, I asked many questions & every response that I got from them was backed with a "well what do you think?" kind of expression. Making a big purchase, such as ones first DSLR, should be easy and sorry to say, but it was not. I understand that making money is an important factor to small businesses, but at least try to hide it with customer service. So disappointed. read more

If I could, I'd give them 0 stars. My husband and I had a TERRIBLE experience with Fireside. We took our memory cards with all of our honeymoon pictures to Fireside Camera to have them transferred onto DVDs. A seemingly simple ask. When I went to pick them up, they gave me back 2 DVDs and assured me that the THOUSANDS of pictures my husband and I had taken in Africa were on them, so I had them delete the pictures from the memory cards, as we had to return them to our friends. When I got home and checked, the DVDs were corrupted, with no pictures to be found. We now have no pictures whatsoever from our honeymoon, and i will never go back to Fireside. I was probably naive to assume that a professional outfit like this would have verified that the pictures had transferred properly before charging me for the service and deleting the pictures from my memory cards, but I am still amazed that they managed to botch such a simple (and important!) process. When I returned to the store to ask them to try to recover my pictures, they were apologetic but the person who I had initially worked with acted as though he didn't remember me. They said that they "normally" verifty that transfers like this have worked properly before giving the DVDs to the customer. Clearly they should be doing this ALL the time! Don't trust Fireside with pictures that you care about! read more

Terrific store that is my "go to" place in San Francisco for camera accessories. My first inclination was to give Fireside four Yelp stars, only because their prices are full retail, versus Internet channels; and the salesmen I've worked with there did not seem inclined to want to "price match" against their Internet competition. Ultimately, I am giving them five stars because they are not at all unreasonably priced for a full service retail store and they can't be faulted for their particular business model. After all, especially with items like lenses or cameras, there is nothing as important to a customer as being able to test the item in actual shooting conditions. No Internet site can provide that. A week ago, I arrived with a severe filter threading issue on my 60mm f/2.8G ED AF-S Micro-Nikkor. No one - and I mean NO ONE - had been able to get these filters off my lens. Within an hour, the staff had manged to get the filters off with zero damage to the actual lens (!). They gave me a discount on the replacement filters I needed to purchase as a result of the repair (the original filters had to be broken to get them off the lens), and did not charge me for the labor (!). That's the kind of in person customer service that cannot be provided on the Internet. So a week later, I went ahead and purchased an AF-S Nikkor 50mm f/1.4G from Fireside at full price. They had allowed me to try it out on my camera first, which made all the difference in helping me decide between that lens and the AF-S Nikkor 35mm F1.8G DX. Product selection and availability is excellent, and I have to believe that the staff at Fireside are among the most knowledgeable in the city. Their style isn't necessarily "warm and fuzzy" but there is a lot of expertise there that they are happy to share. I asked a lot of dumb (newbie) questions, and they were more patient with me than I likely would have been, in their shoes. Will definitely try to continue to support them by returning to Fireside for additional accessories, repair work, etc. read more

I'm looking to make my own left handed camera and am researching prices to find the best deal. This place seemed like it has decent equipment, though its all behind the counter and you cant handle any of it, BUT I'm not going to spend money to be treated like an idiot. Sorry, that's just me. read more

Lifesavers! I discovered my camera was not working 3 days into a vacation. I stopped by this shop in desperation not really expecting an easy solution. Not only did the guy who waited on me quickly diagnose and fix the problem but refused to charge me. Highly recommend! read more

My camera sensor needs to be cleaned. Someone recommended me the store. Walked in and greeted by Spencer. Immediately he helped me. Job was done quickly and was free of charge. Your outstanding service just earned your store a loyal customer. read more

If you're in SF and looking to buy a camera, come to Fireside Camera -- you'll be happy you did. I purchased a Nikon D600, Nikkor 28mm f/1.8, and a TravelPro 10L bag here. The employees at the store helped me choose my gear, threw in some added bonuses (32GB SD card and a 3-month 500px subscription), and provided great advice for lenses. I think the prices are slightly higher than what you can find on Amazon or other online shopping venues, but you pay extra for friendly and great service that ensures you get just what you need. read more

For a small, independent store, the selection is pretty good. But the employees don't seem very knowledgeable, nor did they seem to care about my business. I asked if they had a certain type of lens and the man looked at all the boxes to see what they had. He looked in the binder for the price and offered no background or anything about it (nor the next, or the next). I guess the Internet will be a better friend in this case. read more

I called Fireside Camera because of the very lovely reviews and customer service most people talked about. I wanted to get a camera fixed and when I called I was told they don't do repairs and told me to send it to the manufacturer. So not very helpful....but then I really blame the previous reviews which mislead me into thinking this was a place that fixed cameras. The guy I spoke to at the store via the phone told me they don't. I do have to say he was very polite, so big tick there. But unhelpful.... read more

The team here is always extremely helpful and I feel they are looking out for the customer. From picking up my BorrowLenses rental to purchasing filters from the shop. The team here has always been kind, by going as far as checking the "bargain bin" for a discounted item that I was already going to purchase! Thanks for being awesome and helpful! read more

I was looking for some accessories for my Digital SLR. After reading the positive reviews on this place I was interested to visit and ask their thoughts/experience - I was looking for advice, and then ultimately to purchase. Unfortunately I got no advice at all, and really no help in deciding which product. In the end I decided myself.....not to buy anything. I went online, did some research and ended up buying through a camera site. I'm sure there are great products in this place, and on the right day, great service. I think I just went on the wrong day - and unfortunately for them, I spent my money elsewhere. read more

Drove here all the way from San Jose to buy cameras because of their 63rd-anniversary sale! Ed was very helpful and knowledgeable about the cameras I was looking at. Definitely worth the trip and I would definitely come back here again! read more

This used to be THE place to buy a camera on the north side of town, or anywhere in San Francisco. Unfortunately the Internet forced these folks into a paranoid mindset that made them forget why they opened in the first place. Yes the Internet offers cheaper prices from wholesalers where you cannot touch and feel the camera. Yes the public used these mom and pop camera stores to make buying decisions but ultimately bought on the Internet to save $50 (or less). I bought several cameras at this Chestnut Street store and each time I could have saved money by buying online but I was fortunate to be dealing with the owner. He gave me added value that was worth much more than the $50 I would have saved online. Little things like a camera case, an extra battery, free repairs within the first 12 months. But ultimately I bought there because the buying experience was so pleasant. We talked about the cameras and how they differed; how the technology has changed; tips and tricks to get the best out of certain models. It was the old-school way of buying and you felt yourself get a little excited about taking it home. Unfortunately, if you are the 2 out of 3 folks that walk in the store and are immediately accosted by the surly, rude person behind the counter (not the owner), you'll never get past it. You'll never have the buying experience I just described. Bottom line is: the guys behind the counter are split between their resentment that you CAN come into their store, waste their time and ultimately buy online and the fact that they actually think you're a little stupid if you don't. Fireside's prices are higher than online. It's the only way they can support a brick-and-mortar retail store. I'm willing to pay the extra price for the experience of buying the old-fashioned way. Unfortunately you can't get past the sullen rudeness behind the counter unless you deal with the owner. This will be the death knell for the mom and pop camera store. It's a "Catch 22", sign of the times. While the owner truly loves his store and what he does, he's also been affected by the consumer who uses the store for an "Internet showroom." He didn't treat me with that disdain or suspicion but he must feel it intensely or he wouldn't let his staff be so flagrantly rude. Sorry for this long post but I feel so sad that this is our future. Brick-and-mortar stores will only survive if they keep the consumer happy enough to pay more than they would on the Internet. It's hard to sell the intangible when you don't really believe in it yourself. read more

I went in after seeing the good Yelp reviews to take a look at their gear. While I was there I had my camera and wanted to see if they were able to check my SD card slot since a piece of it got stuck a few years ago. Without any question they took it to the back and told me to give them 30 minutes to check it out. After going around to other shops on Chestnut they had it fixed!! I got quotes at some of the big box chains and it cost a fortune which is why I put up with the nuisance for awhile. It was nice that I didn't feel like a burden to them and they were all so personable. I've been to other places which made me feel like I annoyed them with a simple question. So glad I found this place and will definitely be back to get more lenses for my camera and maybe a few other things as gifts. read more

Very knowledgable staff, and they have been there for many years. I went looking for one camera type (full frame that I was curious about) but they consulted with me on what type of photos I take and how large I print them, and they steered me towards a Micro Four Thirds system. That was pleasant since they put my interests before selling me a more expensive product. (They carry all types such as the new Canon R systems, in case I wanted that) They applied a screen protector for the camera display for me, and you are not likely to get that service from a large chain store. Selection is good for a store this size. They have an arrangement to rent Fuji cameras, in case you want to try before you buy. I believe they do not rent other types though. read more

Based on the positive reviews, I thought this place wouldn't be a snobby camera store. Wrong. Unfortunately had a pretty rude experience with a sales guy there and will take my business elsewhere. I don't want to support a store that isn't kind and helpful to customers. I recommend spending your money and time elsewhere! read more

Disappointed. Might have helped if I had had my camera with me but .... Described the problem I was having and the work around I was using ... Asked if they could repair that. The young man behind the counter basically told me that I was better off using the work around -- essentially telling me that the feature I wanted repaired on my camera wasn't that special. Then told me he would sell me a part that I had just explained to him that I had swapped out and knew wasn't the problem. Clearly wasn't listening, didn't want the business, or didn't know how to fix it. I actually think the camera probably needs a thorough cleaning .... Feel like if I had asked for that he would've said it was better dirty. read more

Soooo helpful over the phone. I dunno about you guys, but phone mannerisms go a loooong way for me! These are my new go-to guys for anything camera related. read more

As a first time camera buyer, these guys were great to inform me on what cameras would suit my needs best. They took their time with me as a customer and I was very happy with their service! They are also located in a great location on Chestnut street in the marina. Bought a Sony alpha nex C3 from this store and couldn't be happier! Thanks Fireside Camera! read more

Fireside Camera is the only place I would go to for cameras and gear. The service is excellent, their prices are competitive, and the staff's knowledge is unmatched. In all honesty, the majority of shoppers do not know enough about cameras. Sometimes you can buy something you do not need or an inferior product. The guys at Fireside always set me up with the camera or lens that suits my needs and their prices are competitive with shopping on the internet. After buying what I thought was a steal of a deal on an amazing camera and having it turn out to be a pretty crappy camera, I'll stick with Fireside. read more

My wife and I found Fireside to be a great place for two people that know nothing about cameras. We wanted to purchase an entry level SLR and didn't want to just rely CNET and user reviews for an expensive purchase. The staff was very helpful and really listened to what we wanted. We were only shown the entry level cameras and never were pressured to purchase a more advanced camera. We are totally satisfied with our purchase and will continue to frequent Fireside. read more

I'm not the one to write reviews but feel like this has to be told, I recently had taken my Canon EF 50mm f/1.2L USM Lens to send it to canon through Fireside camera, they ended up lying to me about sending in the lens to canon and charged me $699 for fixing the lens, I payed the full amount, later I realized that they didn't fix the lens and it's still not working properly, they said they had the whole lens element replaced which I don't believe, I'm a freelance photographer and make my living taking pictures, just don't want this happen to anyone in the future, don't think the people that work there have any idea about how camera works, I've learned my lesson and won't be ever returning. Thank you for killing my soul Fireside! Please don't do this to anyone read more

I just upgraded my Nikon that I bought here a coupla years ago. This family-owned joint still rocks with service & selection. I'm now the happy owner of a new Nikon dSLR that also shoots 24fps 720p HD video! read more

I happened to be in the city for an appointment and I also needed to purchase a camera bag and strap for the new Fuji X-T2 I recently acquired. Since I don't live in the city any more I had to rely on Yelp to find a camera store. That led me to Fireside Camera in the Marina, and an excellent salesman named James at the store. He saw me looking at bags and immediately offered his assistance. I was thoroughly impressed with his willingness to help and with his knowledge of product. He was able to immediately locate two or three bags that he thought I would be interested in and he gave me a hands on demo of each using a Fuji X-T2 that they had in the store. He was able to point out all the pluses and minuses of each bag, which was very helpful since I know nothing about camera bags. I would contrast that with some other shopping experiences I have had with other local camera stores where they just point you towards where you can self help but don't offer much specific product information. James was also very knowledgeable about camera straps, and was actually very excited about showing me how great one particular strap by BlackRapid was. I could tell he really cared about what he was doing and took pride in the merchandise the store offered. It's a small store but they surprisingly have a lot of stuff, maybe because they only carry things that are useful and cool :) Thank you James, for the time that you put in. read more

In this age of "buy everything online,' these kind of full service camera stores are becoming quite rare. Fireside Camera proves the value of a brick and mortar camera buying experience. Staff are friendly, experienced and knowledgeable. There is a complete selection here, from cheap point and shoots to drool-worthy Leicas. Prices meet or beat online vendors based upon my research. Well worth a visit. read more

Always wonderful to do business with this camera shop. They have the best trade in values of anyone and are always there to help with any kind of photographic equipment problem. read more

LOVE this place! The staff is so friendly and helpful. They've come through for me time and time again - whether it's a replacement battery, camera charger or memory cards - they've got it all. For such a small store, I'm always surprised at their stocked inventory. They have never not had something I've been looking for. Come here instead of Best Buy...you'll be so happy you did. read more

This isn't a pro shop, so its not a place I would go normally. I did happen to need something and didn't feel like going out to Calumet and they happen to have it (only one left... just in time). But, they were nice, so I would say you're better off here than someplace like Wolf Camera where most of the people are clueless and could care less. read more

I dropped my camera on ground and as the result the lens cover i put on my lens broke! without it, my lens would have been broke for sure. Anyway the rim of the lens were bent and I cannot take the broken lens cover off, so I called Fireside Camera and Tyler said he can take if off within an hour or two depends on how busy he is. So i dropped it off and within an hour he called me and said the lens cover were off but he couldn't repair the dented lens but he referred me to another shop in the city that could do the job. Overall a great experience here and all staff were friendly and helpful. read more

I had pics on my iPhone I wanted printed and framed. All I had to do was download a Kodak app and then the guys walk you through a simple process. 15 minutes later I had my pics printed, framed and paid for. Very easy, good service and fair pricing. Definitely coming back! read more

The best camera store, knowledgeable staff, great explanations, great range of price points, and undivided attention.....this is the place to go for a camera read more

Great place - they got the knowledge, and they're nice and the prices are more than the dodgy ebay places, but not by much, and you know what you're getting (and you can take it back). read more

Very small store, but a good selection of bags (what I bought today) and small digital cameras served by intelligent, helpful salespeople. Definately recommended. read more

I have nothing to complain about with Fireside Camera. Maybe it could have been better if I had stumbled in there during a huge sale, or had a fat coupon to use, but alas, this was not the case. We walked over the Pacific Heights hill down to the Marina for a joint Apple and Fireside Camera shopping venture. I was pleased to find they are right next to each other on Chestnut. Now, I already have a very nice Nikon SLR that I am very happy with, except that it is too big, heavy, bulky and intimidating for certain scenarios so I was in the market for a sub-compact digital camera to fit in the palm of my hand. I haven't owned a non-SLR camera in ten years but had already done some research. When I went in the guy who helped me was very friendly and not pushy at all. He offered tips on how we could save money by buying or not buying brand names on accessories and other things. He offered what seemed to me, the truth about quality and price. They didn't have an extra battery for the camera I choose but offered to order it for me first thing on Monday, and he would give me a call when they got it in. This was a much better experience then some other camera shops, both independent and chains, that I have been to. I will definitely go there again! read more

Ed and Tyler went out of their way to help me right just passed closing time. Now granted, I knew exactly what I wanted, they gave me no attitude, were happy with the sale, and were both still super nice enough to chat me up a bit. I can totally see why they sell lot's of Canon's. Fair prices, knowledgeable, and customer service oriented. read more

Fireside camera has always provided me with great cameras and great service. Purchased a wonderful camera here 3 years ago; it was lost, and we got a replacement here - great new camera, demonstrated how to use it, at a better price. Then, a week later, the original camera was recovered -- and Fireside let me return the new camera, no restocking fee, no problem. Amazing. We will always purchase all our equipment here. read more

Great service and guidence. The prices are as good as any website and the old fashion Style gives a great experience shopping there

Yeah, this is a great place - friendly, helpful staff, somewhat limited but discerning selection, great service, and often some of the best local prices for cameras. read more

Can't say enough good things about this place. Just moved and in the shuffle I lost the cord that connects my camera to my computer so I can download my pictures. First went to RadioShack. I told them what I needed and the make/brand of my camera and they sold me a cord. TWICE I brought it back because the cord didn't fit. The third time, I brought in my actual camera. When the salesperson saw it she said 'Oh you need one of THOSE! We don't sell those.' WHA? So what had they been selling me this whole time? 'Usb cords usually used for cell phones.' What a complete waste of time and energy. Next day, I call up Fireside. Again I tell the guy exactly what I need and the type of camera I have. Not only do they have the cord, and reasonably priced too, but the guy was very knowledgeable about it and gave me several different options. In a couple of minutes, I was walking into their shop on a cute, bustling street in the Marina. Couple seconds later, I was walking out the door with exactly what I needed. Worked great. Should have just started with them. If you need accessories for your camera and you're not sure what you need, I would go here because they know what they're talking about. Going to the 'big brand' stores where the employees know nothing was a huge waste of time and the prices were actually higher. read more

Even though this store is small, they have so much. The guys who work there are all really nice and knowledgeable. I came in there today looking to buy a Panasonic and ended up with an Olympus because once I held it and put it through its paces,I found it worked better for me. You can't do that on Amazon, so I think it's way worth it to go to Fireside. read more