Thank you so much to Matt for helping me fix a minor issue in my film camera and teaching me how to rewind it again! Really appreciate it! Always such a nice team who never hesitate to help you learn! I am still new to manual film cameras so I appreciated it! read more

I had an extremely positive experience at Glass Key Photo! As an absolute film novice, they walked me through everything I needed to know and answered my questions with great detail. They gave me what I thought was a fair price for some old equipment, considering the time and fees associated with selling something online. read more

Super helpful, friendly and knowledgeable staff. So glad to see them handling film cameras and repairs too. Haven't tried their scanning service yet but happy to see they have it and at a very reasonable price read more

Whether you're a pro analog photographer or just a film hobbyist like me, this place has what you need and they've got the knowledge to guide you through the things you might be confused about! I brought in my Canon AE1 program because at low shutter speeds my shutter button wasn't engaging, it took them all of about 30 seconds to figure out that the issue was just a dying battery! I felt pretty silly that I hadn't considered that was the issue, but they were very quick to make me feel justified in my overlooking that. It's a big deal to me when the staff of a place like this is so warm and welcoming, and this shop is an extraordinary example of this type of warmth and kindness. I've been shooting film for about a decade but what I don't know about film still FAR outweighs what I do know, and the people who work here are extremely good at explaining things in a friendly and warm way. Moving on to their selection of films: holy cow! They had SO many different formats. They had a HUGE variety of 35mm films, as well as a selection of 120, 8mm movie film, and 620, and that's just what I was asking about, they've got tons more! I paid way less than I was expecting to for a few rolls of film, since the price of film has risen exponentially in the last few years. This place has a great value for basic 35mm film rolls and a very reasonable price for the specialty stuff. Note* they DO offer developing and the turnaround time is pretty quick, 4-5 days after being sent out to an Oakland based company. That's a fast turnaround time, compared to anything quality in the city! I will be coming back to Glass Key and I'm so excited for my future visits! read more

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Such a nice store. I got a canon FTB at an estate sale and I had no idea what to do with it. They replaced the battery and basically taught me how to use the camera. I know nothing about cameras and they made me feel very comfortable. They have an array of cameras and very cool camera accessories to shop around for, highly highly recommend this shop. read more

Always come here to drop of film to underdog, and buy more film. Staff is nice and helpful. And they always have cool finds for a good price in some of their bins! read more

Analog Lives! This is a film photographers heaven. The staff is both knowledgeable and passionate about all things photography. The store is all about non digital photography. They offer valuable resources. There knowledge and inventory is special. If you're looking for chemistry, alternative process materials ( like cyanotype materials) they have it! The used equipment inventory is great from point and shoot to large format. It's nice to see a niche business working so hard to both survive and give a great service. I found their prices to be very competitive but more so you're getting a lot for what you pay for. You're not just buying a roll of film you're buying the support of this business. Their knowledge they're availability they're stocking stuff you may need spur of the moment. Do business with these people! read more

Emailed them a day prior for a quote on two old cameras with their conditions and received a reply in an hour. Thought the price was great, arrived at opening time the next day, and the testing and transaction went smoothly! Very polite and nice business, and told me of another camera store, Fireside Camera, when I asked for a specific EF-S lens. Also surprised to hear they do APS film developing for $8, as their charts don't even mention developing APS film. Will come back to develop my remaining film, thanks! read more

Absolutely fantastic. Everything you need for film photography is here from chemistry to equipment. It's all super low-key and as photographer who shot film when film was the only option, this shop would easily rank in the top 5 of all time photo supply/equipment stores that I've ever been in. Well done. It was great to see how active the place is, and how many customers were in and out in the short time I was there. They're doing it right. read more

This is the best camera store in San Francisco. Great selection of cameras, lenses, film, and development products. All reasonably priced! Film prices are also at MSRP, or within a dollar. I only buy my film here. They partner with Underdog Film Lab for development, and turn-around is pretty quick (with free drop-off and pickup). I also bought a Leica M6 at this shop. It came CLA'd by one of the top Leica repair guys, with a letter of proof stating what was done to it. read more

REVIEW IS FOR REPAIR SERVICES ONLY They refused to repair my Nikon FG camera. Not sure how their other services are, hence the two stars and not one. Here's the more detailed version of what happened. The light meter of my camera is broken (a common issue), so I took it in to be repaired. I knew the repair that needed to be done (https://www.instructables.com/Fix-Nikon-FG-Blinking-Light-Meter/) but figured it would be better to have a professional do it. Unfortunately, the people at the store didn't even want to look at the solution I found. I explained it to them anyways, but they said their repair guy only likes to fix things "properly", that is by replacing the part. The thing is, doing that would be more expensive than just buying a new camera, and it's not a very good fix for this issue because the problem is with the part--it's known to be flaky. I actually bought this camera just two weeks ago, and when I bought it the light meter worked! So even if I were to buy a new camera, the same issue could occur. Still, they refused to fix the camera, and said their repair guy would just send it back unless I wanted to do the "proper" fix. So if you're coming in for a repair, be warned that something like this may happen to you as well. read more

They are knowledgable and fair. they have contact with many estates so understand how people feel and connect with compassion. Its good to go in with reasonable expectations, some items are valuable others not so when selling. Their selection of cameras and equipment is awesome! I love film and will be back when I need some or developing paper. Go in to see the antiques too! read more

I expected friendly service based on the 5-star reviews, but when I stopped in to have my broken camera looked at, I was surprised by an employee's attitude. He immediately asked, "Did you put a battery in it?" and after a brief inspection, told me, "The camera isn't reading the film," then returned to his computer. When I waited for him to continue, he looked at me silently, prompting me to ask, "Any solutions?" His response was, "Send it back." While I appreciate the diagnosis, his lack of courtesy was disappointing. read more

It's extremely dangerous to live within walking distance from Glass Key Photo. They have everything you need for film photography, at every level. Want to get started? Come here, get a used beginner's camera. Want something really specific? Chances are, they've probably got it. After losing a few eBay items in the mail, or receiving items which were not as described, I've made it a point to stop by and see if Glass Key has what I need. (They usually do) You can also rent film cameras here, and pick up all types of film. As of Feb 2023, masks are still required, which is a huge plus, for someone like me who doesn't think Covid-19 is over, and prefers to do business with Covid-cautious businesses that look out for others, like this one. read more

This is an excellent camera store. All the 135 and 120 film you could ever want. The staff are camera experts, friendly and very helpful. I was looking for a Rolleiflex TLR and they had one in excellent condition at a fair price. Great selection of medium format and 35 mm cameras. Give this business a try, you won't be disappointed. read more

I walked in with an Olympus OM2 that I recently bought. They really helped me think through which lens would be the best one to go with and set me up with all the other basics. Allowed me to take my time, answered all the newbie questions I had without making me feel like I was wasting their time. Great overall service. It's clear that they care for their community. So happy to hear they have started doing film developing and scanning too. Thank you for all the work you do, Glass Key Photo! read more

I've only ever been here to develop my film rolls, and they have a great service. Every time I've dropped off film, they've sent it to the lab in Oakland, processed, and emailed me scans within 2 days. Highly recommend! read more

I get my photos developed here and I am always pleasantly surprised at how fast they do it! Amazing place

My go to spot for restocking on film! They also outsource film processing to Underdog Film Lab, so it's really convenient to drop off and pick up your stuff there. They carry a great selection of film in different formats and there's always really cool new and used gear circulating through there! I've been going to these folks for several years now, even before they moved to their current location on Sutter from the old shop in the Lower Haight! Super nice guys and always helpful when I'm not sure about something and have questions! Highly recommended!! read more

Great selection of film and camera gear mainly of the film type. My choice when trying to find old school lenses/cameras or certain film. Great people with great knowledge. read more

Glass Key Photo - Photography Stores & Services Near Me - San Francisco, California

Went in for a niche battery for my old SLR and a re-stock of film as I needed supplies quick for outbound travel and wanted to avoid the interwebs. Staff was knowledgeable and super helpful. I watched them handle a number of walk-ins (local photographers would seem to know that this is the place to go), and could not help but be impressed by their efficiency. Would recommend for all your film camera needs. read more

i love coming here! this is the best camera shop for all your film needs - from cameras, to lenses, to film itself. i wish i still lived in the city so i could come here more often! Gordon is so knowledgeable and i appreciate his customer service. he consistently checked in with me to see if i had any questions and even put batteries in several film cameras so i could test them out and decide which one i wanted to buy. i took a little bit of time to figure out which one i wanted and did not feel rushed at all. he even gave me recommendations on which film to use for different times of day and events. this is truly a gem of a store and i highly recommend stopping by if you're into film or photography. read more

Glass Key Photo - canon sure shot film camera - Photography Stores & Services Near Me - San Francisco, California

They were easy to work with, finding me a beginner film camera that was fully manual. They replaced the battery, which I realized afterward would be a pain to find, so thanks! They gave me a heads-up about the on/off, a new lens cap and I was on my way. 30 day guarantee if things are not right with it. read more

What an awesome store! I inherited a Canon F-1 for which I had originally gone to another local camera shop to buy a lens cover leash and replacement for the original mercury battery. Pretty quickly, I realized that either the new battery (a Wein cell battery) was dead / defective, or the light meter was broken. I called ahead and the folks here said they'd be able to fix a broken light meter. Fast forward about two hours when I made my way over here. They very quickly evaluated the battery and determined that it was just being wonky, and replaced it with a new one. They also took apart the camera and cleaned out the dust and such that had collected over the years....all free of charge. I feel bad that they did all that for free and wouldn't expect it, but they've definitely earned my loyalty for future film and photo printing paper needs. They also offer really neat-sounding classes that I want to look into more. The shop is cool, the people are friendly...really, a great place to visit for photography needs in SF! read more

Hands down my favorite photography store for the last 3 years and in the distant future. My reasons why: 1. & 2. Owners Matt and Gordon; some real cool dudes. Highly knowledgeable in the hobby with great customer service. Myself among other patrons *used* to nag them for in-house film development and print services. As a testament to them, they delivered on that request with their partnership with Underdog Film Lab. I once purchased rare-film out of what turned out to be a bum-batch, they voluntarily refunded in full without even asking after the fact came to light during drop off for development. 3. They have the best film-stock & development supplies selection in the city. The in-store film fridges are monoliths of photographic glory that you can bask in whenever you approach the front counter to make your selection. I always find myself pruising like a wine-list of what to shoot whenever I'm in. Movie-film and large-format shooters rejoice, this includes you. DIY developers, they carry most chemistry. 4. The expired film jar. Their candy-jar on the counter is always worth a look through, you'll never know what expired film-gem you'll find and the results you can get shooting it. 5. The best film-camera gear selection in the city. Admittedly I've spent too much money at this fine establishment on top-shelf camera gear than I would care to admit to my significant other. The amount possibly being grounds for divorce. No regrets though. If you dont see what you want on display, always ask. They may have it in the back or in stock within their servicing queue. There's nothing too high-end or expensive they can't help you locate. Matt and Gordon have quite the knack for finding this stuff. They also repair/ coordinate repair for your existing gear. If they can't fix it, they don't charge. 6. The bargain table. Just like the film jar, you'll never know what odds and ends you'll find on/ below/ around it. I've found gems and rare/ obscure missing-pieces here. If you're looking for a project, desk/ shelf ornament, or prop. this is where you dig around. read more

I needed to buy a reflector for a photography class I'm taking but wanted to buy ot at an actual physical store. Luckily they had one in stock when I asked the guy at the counter. Only $5 and I bought local. read more

What a great spot for film enthusiasts! Glass is a terrific place to buy film and film cameras and all the stuff you need to process film. Matt & Gordon answer all of my questions and recently filled in the one last hole in their business: processing and scanning film. I stop by on Sunday afternoon's and always learn something whether it's about techniques, lenses, cameras or processing as I'm buying 35mm, 120 or 4x5 film. One last tip: once a month on a Saturday (I think it's 1st Saturday of the Month), they have a "filter guy" come in and sell filters. He has some new, some old and filters that fit all kinds of lenses. Highly recommended! P.S. you can usually get a parking spot in the alley's parallel to Sutter, or on Sutter across Van Ness. read more

It was very difficult for me to go there because I was bringing a good amount of photographic equipment from my father whom we recently lost. I became teary eyed immediately, but Gordon (I believe that is his name) was kind, and paid me a fair amount, and even offered to show me how to close one of the old cameras I kept at home. And, very important: there is a real love for photographic equipment of all types, so I felt good leaving my dad's beloved cameras there. read more

The most friendly, helpful, knowledgable people I could ask for. A very positive experience. I love stepping inside this place. One of a kind. read more

Was finally able to check out Glass Key during a recent trip to San Francisco, and I have been a fan of them online and in the film photo community for a while. Upon entry, I felt like I had walked into a camera shop from Japan or elsewhere where film cameras are still seen a bit more. They had a ton of cameras, and accessories in case and spread throughout the space. They also had a ton of bins and piles of free magazines/books for those who need or want them. I wish that we had something like that back here in Baltimore! The film fridges that had everything from 4X5 to Super 8mm were like a dream come true. That is the most variety of film I've seen in one place so far here in America, most of the time you'd have to order and pay shipping for a lot of these rolls. read more

Film cameras, knowledgeable friendly owners, film, paper, chemicals and accessories. What's not to like.

A lovely photo spot where you can drop off your film for processing (even E6!), buy a film camera, film, photo chemicals, and chat with fellow photographers who seem to love this place. read more

They were pretty cool, purchased some film there and the prices are fair. Would recommend if you are in need film and in San Francisco. read more

Glass Key Photo - 35mm, 120 film. - Photography Stores & Services Near Me - San Francisco, California

Absolute 10/10!! I went in to get my disposable camera processed and if you guys don't know how hard it is to do that nowadays... then it's cause you found this place. They made the process SO easy, and I got disposable camera scans and prints back in just a couple days!! And the scans are great. I usually go to Walgreens but it cost the same and takes 4+ weeks.. never again :) thank you glass key photo! You just earned a loyal customer read more

I purchased a Nikon F at this establishment recently and am very pleased. The camera was very reasonably priced and the owner is extremely knowledgeable. I had all my questions answered and did not feel like I was annoying anyone. All film is kept in a fridge which I have never seen in a camera store. There is a nice selection of quality vintage cameras for sale here. I will be coming here for my next film camera and I would recommend to anyone looking to deal with anything film photography period. read more

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Everyone in this shop is very informative as well as genuine. They have a wide selection of medium format and 35mm cameras / lenses as well as a ton of expired and new film waiting to be shot! This place can be hard to spot though, so keep your eyes open!! read more

Tl;dr - go here. Incredible customer service and such nice guys. I live in Brentwood, which is not close to Glass Key (over an hour drive away). I took Bart all the way out to Glass Key Photo to trade in my old Mamiya C330 and see what other medium format cameras they had. When I arrived at the store, I looked through the cameras and decided on a good ol' Bronica S2. I knew my Mamiya wouldn't be valuable enough for a straight across trade, but I didn't have a lot of money with me either. In a spur-of-the-moment decision, I decided to trade in my pride and joy - a Nikon FA with the prized 50mm f1.4 AI-S lens. As soon as I walked out of the store, I regretted it. I fret about it for over two weeks before calling the store and seeing if they still had the camera. I was delighted to hear they still had it. I had every plan of paying full market price for this camera, but to my delight, they offered to sell it back to me at almost no profit on their end. Moral of the story, these guys are incredible. They love cameras so much, and their customer service is top notch. I will DEFINITELY be back. And I recommend you go there too. read more

This review is extremely overdue. I have had nothing but great experiences at Glass Key Photo, the selection is amazing and the staff is the best. Gordon has been super helpful in my transition from a point-and-shoot into an SLR, answering all of my questions and assisting with any rookie mistakes. I'll be sure to keep bringing my business here and passing along this great location to others! read more

I wish I could give Gordon and Matt 10 stars - this place is amazing. This past weekend I was under the gun time-wise to get my old 4x5 camera looked at for a possible repair before I leave the country for a big trip to Africa and these guys were on it. They were open on Sunday which was a very nice surprise and knowing I was stressed about the timeline they got back to me within a few hours about the repair. That is FAST. The biggest bonus was they had a used 4x5 Crown Graphic camera in excellent condition exactly like my original - so i bought it the next day at a VERY reasonable price - so now I have a killer back-up to bring on my trip. I am thrilled to find an old school camera shop with fresh film, paper and fantastic used equipment. Just what SF needs. Thanks guys : ) read more

Brought my newly-acquired Nikon F2 here to get its light seals repaired and they did a beautiful job for $40. The work looked like the camera had come that way! (I realize I could've done this job at home, but I wanted to start shooting ASAP.) They even got the camera back to me before their projected finish time. I got 10 rolls of Kodak Ektra and Portra for a fair price, as well as a nice container to store them in the refrigerator. So happy this shop is here! They also have loads of vintage cameras, including some medium format darlings that look in near-mint condition. Definitely saving up for one of those. I plan to come back again and again. read more