Pro Photo Connection is one of those rare stores where you feel welcome as soon as you step in the door. I've been getting film developed here for the last year exclusively and John makes sure everything goes quickly and smoothly. These guys really are pro, but that doesn't mean that they only cater to professionals. They are willing to help anyone from students to hobbyists with the same passion they help the pros with. read more

Hours are not updated on yelp. Not sure why but they close at 3pm on Saturday. Feeling frustrated because drove all the way here to make a timely purchase for a gig and low and behold closed :( Lesson learned: always call first ! read more

Love this place! Its a smaller shop that does almost every thing you want. Because of the smallness of the shop they wont have every camera in the world you want to look at or test out like Samy's or B and H. But They offer better service and cheaper prices. The lab for instance is awesome. They will process 35mm film for $3.50 and charge another $3.50 to scan. The scanning usually takes longer than a week but they only have one person doing it so I understand and for the price, I'm willing to wait. I got my first roll of film back from them and they look pretty good the colors are well balanced and didn't find too much dust on the files. I did get the higher quality scans (medium) and it was a bit more ($7) but the files are bigger and I thought it was wroth it since I make bigger prints. The camera shop guys are really helpful even though I didn't buy anything and they have a pretty decent consignment proram where they sell your used gear for you for a piece of the profit. Which is fair and so much better than selling on E-bay. This is my Goto lab in OC and they also process E6 which no one does anymore and even 4x5 (only for E6) C41 they only do up to 120 since they don't use a dip and dunk. The largest prints they can make are 36 inches for C-prints and digital they can print 64 inches. Over all Its a great little camera store that could be a one stop shop for all your photographic needs. with nice friendly people. read more

The best place in town for film, processing and prints. John is such a great and helpful guy there.

I have to admit that my first few visits to their shop wasn't very pleasant. Dealing with an unfriendly and down right rude sales associate who couldn't answer some of my questions and felt the need to be condescending. But I'm happy to say that the rude lady (seriously, they all knew who I was talking about when I mentioned this to them) has been let go (has been for a while now) and now receive the best customer service and care for my film and scanning. Ask for Jon if he's available. He's down right friendly and knowledgeable! I love that they now offer custom scan profiles so my images come back to me looking just how I like them. If you've had a bad experience in the past , I urge you to go back now and give them another chance. They've taken these reviews seriously and have worked hard to up their game and keep their customers happy! read more

I just want to say John is the man!!! I had a stuck lens filter- I tried EVERY trick in the book (aka the Interwebz) to get the damn thing off my lens and nothing worked. Even wasted $10 on filter wrenches that didn't do jack squat. Finally brought the lens here with the hope that they had some ancient secret to take it off. I don't know, but John had the magic touch and got the filter off in less than 10 seconds. My jaw dropped. I had nothing but praise and admiration for the guy, because my buddy and I had been using silicone mats, rubber pads, and elbow grease for a week without moving the filter a millimeter. Best part is, it didn't cost me a dime! Thank you again, John!!! read more

totally a mess... why is it so hard to notify costumers first when their film has a problem?? I had to call them and was told my film was wet after my order's due date (ended up it was someone else's film, BUMMER) and found out the film was not mine after I sent it to another lab. When I went back with the wrong film and wanted them to find mine, the man with glasses was being super passive aggressive and was like "how do you know the other lab didn't switch rolls?" "did someone else borrow your camera"(I wish I can post the recordings, he sounds like I'am stupid) and guess what, I didn't even get a single apology. The whole process was also really slow, (not even surprised because their staff is indolent) but at least John is nice and he found my film eventually, and FYI, it took 1 month to get my photos! :) read more

I have been going to these guys for lens rentals and photo prints for quite some time. Their prints are OK. However, last time I was there waiting in line the sales guy looks right over me and started talking to the guy behind me answering questions. I thought it would be brief, but this guy carries on explaining different kinds of papers and prints and options and volunteers to walk to a different section of the shop, without even a courtesy "I will be with you in a minute". The customer in front of me who had already been served was looking at me with a quizzical look, like I can't believe what this guy is doing. At that point I remarked that the concept of a line is probably new to these folks and left. I had had it. Not going back there. Plenty of places in and around Irvine which would be eager to do business and do a better job with the prints. read more

I do a lot of 35mm black and white photography but my least favorite part is processing. So I bring my film here to be processed. They are super fast and it's not super expensive. One time I had tried out a new camera that turned out had a broken shutter. They processed the roll I brought in and showed me that the film hadn't been exposed at all. They didn't even charge me for it! Great selection of supplies and old cameras and such. read more

Old, dilapidated rental equipment with softboxes that are literally falling apart. Customer service is a joke. I haven't been talked to in such a passive aggressive condescending manner since I was in a fight with an ex way back in high school. I wish I could like these guys, but my three visits here were all strikes. I won't be coming back. read more

Pro Photo Connection, YOU GUYS ROCK! I write Yelp reviews to make sure companies like you receive the praise you deserve. Companies that have helped me succeed in my career and make sure others find their way here as well! (restaurants in the same respect, cept they don't necessarily feed my career hehe). I've been going to Pro Photo Connection since I was a freshman in college at UC Irvine. This was when they were in their previous location.. it was smaller and not as... bright? (It's not like it was a terrible location, prob just too small for them). And I STILL come here, as a working professional in the Visual marketing production industry. I rent lenses from here ALL the time. I wouldn't hesitate to rent bodies either. Their main focus is photo. So, for a photo rental house, they're perfect. But if you're branching out to video... they're not as thorough as Samy's in that sense. But, you shouldn't expect them to be, they deliver what they promise! And that's respectable. Gunther is a great rental manager. He respects and expects you to respect the camera gear... and in return, we all should respect his respect. ;) If they ever get a studio together in the back, I'd love to work in the space if it's anywhere near the satisfaction I've had with their rentals. And also, their complimentary warm beverage brewing machine is PERFECT. It's EXACTLY what I need while I pick up my lens and prepare for my next project. read more

turnaround process is way too long for a roll of c41 film compared to other places like the photo lab in costa mesa. i noticed water spots on most of my pictures which was so unpleasant :( read more

I had my film developed and scanned here. They get the work done in a timely manner. Took a little over a week to receive my pics via email. For some reason I didn't receive the WeTransfer link by the end of the day I was supposed to so I called the next day and they sent it again right way. Great customer service! I'll definitely be using them for my next films :) read more

I came here to get all my supplies and my camera for my photography class I was taking at IVC. This was the closest place to my house to go to. I bought an older Cannon AE-1 film camera that was on consignment here for a pretty good price. It ended up being an excellent camera for my class. I got all my supplies here too (photo paper, film, etc). My teacher always wanted us to use a different type of film for every assignment we had (really annoying). Some of the films I was assigned to get aren't even made anymore, hard to find, or sold out because every IVC photo student comes here (way to go professor, get up to date). So I just bought a film that they said was similar to the one I was assigned and it ended up being the perfect film every time. The guys that work here can be a little grumpy at times, throw a smile on guys :) Other than that they are always helpful, I'm in photo class for a reason.. I know nothing about film photography haha. They also give a student discount if you have your school ID card, I think its only 10% but photo class can get expensive so its better than nothing! I'm a fan because they always have everything I need for my black and white photo class, or something similar. Good place to go for your photo needs. read more

These guys have been taking care of me for years and I only go to other places if they are closed and Im in a bind. Richard, John, Jim & Gunther are always there to help me out with anything I need. From prints to software advice to rentals to buying gear & accessories. They can answer all my silly questions. I've bought both new and used gear here and have brought friends here to purchase entirely new camera systems. Family takes care of each other and Im grateful to have them in town. read more

Pro Photo is one of the best, and closest, photography shops around. Supply-wise, they have a huge and relatively competitively priced selection. Of course, online is cheaper, but with fragile and heat/light sensitive items such as film and camera accessories it's more reliable to come to a brick and mortar shop. They had everything I needed for both my high school and college level photography classes. The printing department is wonderful and the staff there does a really great job producing high quality prints. They are one of the few photo development places that process black and white film. If you're falling behind in your class, getting your film developed here can be a life saver! They always do great work with my negatives. The staff, while being very knowledgeable and talented, do seem a bit judgemental and did talk down to me when I was a wide-eyed little 'black and white photography' student. If you go near closing and have a bunch of questions, don't expect to be greeted with the best attitude. However, overall, the staff is more on the friendly side and know all the basics. All in all, great shop, great folks, and great selection. read more

You'd be hard pressed to find a better specialty photo store in OC than Pro Photo Connection in Irvine. Under one roof Pro Photo Connection offers top-of-the-line service, photo finishing, sales and rentals on professional camera equipment. It's just the best resource for amateurs and serious photographers. Pro Photo offers a great selection, good pricing on new and high quality consigned equipment, and expert service--they can solve problems like no other. I refer to it as the "Cheers" of camera shops, where everyone knows your name. And as soon as you go a few times, you'll have your faves, too. You'll love Richard (the sales guru), Big John (store manager), and Jim (purchasing pro). Owner Cornelius Schorle is a world-famous panoramicist (you can purchase his work here too). Open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday. read more

I'm a photo student at OCC and I think that this is probably the most affordable place to shop at for a student. The student discounts here are wonderful! For example, today I bought some Kodak 400 film from a camera store in Huntington Beach and the price was $5.68 with student discount. At Pro Photo, I got the same exact film for $3.94. I know that's not much of a difference but I'm a poor student so I like to save as much money as possible. As for service, I find the staff to be nice. Every time I visit the place, I go away with a good experience. read more

I've been renting here for a little over a year now. Prices are very affordable (for those of you renting expensive equipment frequently, you understand) Jim is usually the one to help me. He is very informative and always answers my photography questions with ease. It's nice being able to ask questions regarding Photography without the judgemental "you don't know what you're doing" stare. The rental department has always been neat and organized. When I place an "order" for my rentals, they have always been ready and accurate. The thing I love most about this rental is that they don't require some crazy expensive "down payment" to rent their equipment. Example: I rented equipment from another source one time and they held 6k on my credit card and I couldn't use it the entire weekend. Pro Photo Connection Rental Department is a one fee pay at pick up deal and its amazing. So glad to have found them. read more

Pro Photo is great. They take really good care of me and my images. The staff always takes the time to help me with all my crazy requests. Thanks John & Jim - I appreciate all you do for me. Love the new location makes it easier to shop. read more

Limited selection, but better pricing than that 'other place' a couple of miles around the corner. Example: That 'other place' was having one of their No Sales Tax weekend things. I mulled over buying an item there because of that sale and after much debating, decided against it. I went to ProPhoto and that same item was about $15-20 cheaper. Even though I paid tax on it, it was still cheaper. Sometimes I need certain things but don't want to spend a lot of money on it because it won't be used a lot. ProPhoto usually carries a cheaper alternative to what I'm looking for. Service is okay. Never had a problem with them. read more

In regards to other stores in the area these guys are top of the line in customer service and selection! I went in on Saturday to get my photo class supplies and although they are a bit disorganized I was greeted almost right away and asked if I needed any assistance. Both gentlemen helped me at some point during my time in the store. I was in an out in a matter of 10 minutes. My only disappointment was they were out of the film I needed for my first project and they wouldn't be getting any more in until today (Tuesday) and my assignment is due tomorrow. So I snagged a couple roles from another store (Calument - don't go!) to tide me over until I go back to get the rest of my film here. I don't have a student ID But they gave me my discount with viewing my syllabus. I will be back for any additional class supply needs!!! Prices: Moderate. Film isn't cheap! Service: Great!! Selection: Good but hard to find at times. Just ask for help!! read more

This was a VERY last minute project for my boss. I dropped off a custom canvas piece and they were able to mount it onto a wooden frame, stretched and everything within 2 hours! Michael's said it would be 10-12 days and $410.00 more. Customer service was awesome, friendly and they're open until 6. Thanks guys!! read more

I live in New York but I read great reviews of Pro Photo for film developing so I sent out some rolls and I couldn't have been more pleased! The negatives looked great. I scanned them myself and I was very happy with the results! Plus the pricing in very reasonable. Just sent out some more rolls and I look forward to getting the negatives in the mail soon. read more

Pro Photo Connection - Scans from the negatives developed at Pro Photo Connection. - Photography Stores & Services Near Me - Irvine, California

John & Richard knocked the chip off my shoulder about 10 years ago when I walked in with attitude. I enjoy the kidding around, Nicole's dry sense of humor and everyone's years of experience and knowledge. You would do well to go pick a few of their brains. So all you people who expect kowtow customer service, get over it. Not going to happen. If you want expert advice, great printing and a huge selection of bags, cameras, paper, lenses etc I would recommend checking them out. They have the best large format printers and lab people. Walk up to the counter to ask for help and info, the guys will happily supply you with more then you need. Note to Pity D, enjoy your cheap, dull, filters, you hope they never have to save your camera lens someday and I am glad you are not taking up counter time at PPC. I can not stand waiting my turn behind a IAADPR... read more

I came here to buy a white studio backdrop and decided to ask one of the sales reps for advice on using lighting equipment (I'm new to strobing). He was super nice and gave me a bunch of tips on how to set up my shot with whatever I had. The environment was friendly and the rep didn't try to push products into my face. It's nice to know that you can go to a camera store, pick up what you need, have a conversation, and leave without feeling pressured to buy a million things. Minus one star only because when i called in to check for an item, I literally got switched between 3 sales reps and put on hold for quite awhile. Other than that, great store! read more

This review is for the customer service as I went in for information on products. A colleague of mine recommended this place to me. I spoke with Richard and discussed my intent to purchase a camera and why I would be purchasing and getting into the art of photography. Richard listened and showed me a product line-up of the cameras that met my criteria. He explained each camera without making me feel too much of a newbie and did a comparison of each. Thanks Richard! :) Richard really took customer service to the next level by taking his time to listen to me and showed me his choices. Now, I'm armed with information and now I can make a more informative decision on which camera to purchase. I will surely come back! Thanks Richard! read more

I initially liked this place because they seemed nice. However, they don't stick to deadlines which is not great for photographers who also have their own deadlines. read more

WOW. I can't believe I've been printing photos at CVS for all these years. I needed to print a few of my photos that were larger (8x10, 11x14) as well as some smaller prints. Pro Photo Connection did a great job, I was really impressed with the quality. It doesn't even compare to CVS/Walgreens, etc. I'll never print anywhere else again. The customer service was awesome too!! read more

Pro Photo Connection is the best! I love to get my film developed here and they are super efficient and friendly.

My go to spot for buying film, processing and scans. John is the best man to deal with and is very knowledgable with anything film related.

This is to review their Rental Department, which I've used with my photographers several times. I got exactly what I needed from a passive/friendly guy for the shoot since my other lens broke. Now that I'm shopping for a new lens the older sales guy that I had in the morning was nice and informative. But on another visit another 2 guys were not as friendly so I can see how the points from the prior negative reviews. (personally I have a feeling not to buy from them...sorry) As for rentals, I have to use them because my other location closed down so this is by default. Even though they're selection is less than their competitors, they are a bit cheaper and open much earlier. Which is the reason I'll be coming to them 1st for my local 1 day rentals needs. read more

Updated and downgraded: Due to rigid, arcane return policies and a less than pleasing customer service experience, my original impression of Pro Photo has changed. Pro Photo Connection does not do returns after 7 days and will only give store credit during the 7 day return period. I purchased a tool that cost around $20 but it did not work. I could not make it back to Pro Photo within the 7 day return period that I was unaware of. When I did return, I planned on purchasing a few items totaling nearly $200 and using my return as credit for these new purchases. The owner charged me a 20% restocking fee on the returned item totaling just over $3 in spite of the fact that I was about to give him over $170 more to purchase the new items. When I said that I was hoping he would overlook the fact that I was a week past the 7 day return period and give me full credit, he explained the concept of a restocking fee to me and then said that he just helped me find the items I was looking for and that that had to be worth something in its own (I guess he feels that he should charge for customer service). While he was helping me find my items, he was mildly rude and impatient. Needless to say this didn't sit well with me and I went back to Pro Photo Connection the very next day to return most of my purchases. I was working on a project on my downtime and was not sure that I would need every item I purchased from Pro Photo to complete the project. Remembering that I only had 7 days to return, I decided better to take the items back and not get stuck with something I didn't need. At this point I was unaware of the store credit only policy. They offered me store credit and showed my the sign stating the stores policies. I'm giving two stars because it's my fault I didn't see the sign sooner. Also most of the staff is helpful and pleasant. In the future, I will not be returning to Pro Photo Connection for my photographic needs or those of my clients. Samy's is just down the street. Surprisingly, they are more flexible with their policies and offer a better customer service experience. I am leaving my original review and first impression of Pro Photo. Started buying at Pro Photo Connection about a year ago when I started a job in the City of Orange. This is a great little store with a big inventory and a very friendly, helpful and knowledgeable staff. It always feels good to support the little guy rather than run to Samy's every time I need a piece of equipment or some supplies. And it ends up being a much more pleasant experience too. Because Pro Photo is a smaller store, I feel as though they value their customers just a little bit more than some of their bigger competitors who know that they will generate sales no matter how unhelpful they may be. The only reason I didn't give four stars is becuase they sometimes do not have the selection of some of the bigger stores, however they always have offered to order anything they don't have in stock. read more

I've used been using pro photo for more than a decade and even though I recently moved over an hour from them I still only go here. John always entertains with a quick wit and is very knowledgeable about film. It's always a pleasure going here. I can't wait to see what the place will be like after the remodel! read more

These guys are helpful, easy to work with and able to rent you things when you need them. It is a small store though and one problem here is that they often get busy and usually only have a few people working. They give you pretty good personal attention but that also means a wait when you were best there. As a videographer I know the need to get equipment for any type of job on-the-go. When I really need a big selection in OC I turn to Samy's camera by South Coast which carries for modern video needs such as GH4's and more. Samy's also has a lottttt of people on hand ready to help so there is never a time somebody can't help me usually or the wait is greatly reduced if it's rather specific. Pro photo is good for rentals but only for industry standard but not high tech items. They mostly have Canon DSLR style camera and lens rentals although there may be a few other brands. Don't come here if your looking to rent things like GH4 or Sony lenses that may be more unique. I am not sure if Samy's does rent those but at least they sell them! Anyways i do like this store and it close proximity to my headquarters but for a slightly further drive into official Costa Mesa I can get s larger selection and more staff ready to help. read more

What a terrific resource! While some reviews mention John being a bit grumpy, he's an absolute pro...He'll make sure your prints are perfect, on time and at a great price. He'll also advise you of the specific process and paper your particular image should be printed on. Their prints are 25% of those at Samy's and they're far superior. read more

I always leave this place with a smile! Their prints are great and the whole staff is so fun and kind... and I mean not just to me, but everyone! They do a great job at getting the prints done in a timely manner and they follow up as well. I'm committed to this place being my only print shop all because of JON! (Forgive my spelling). That guy has such a great sense of humor and EXCELLENT rapport! Great prices & great prints! read more

One time they processed my E6 slide film same day. Since then, this is where I go to get my film processed in OC.

Pro Photo saved the day! My client had received a poor quality order of photos from another professional print lab and we needed the photos reprinted asap. John at pro photo was incredibly helpful and detailed. We are changing to Pro Photo from now on. Thanks again! Plus they do process film! read more

Great place to rent from! They make the rental process easy, simple, and affordable! They give you ample amount of time to rent with letting you pick up day before for no extra charge. read more