What a disappointment!! Very poor costumer service!! I used to buy here before but last time I bought a camera gear for an upcoming event but I had to return it because it wasnt compatible with my other gear, when I paid for the item I asked the sales person if could pay with cash and she said its fine, but to my surprise when I showed up next day to make the return they said since I paid with cash they were unable to refund me the money as the dont keep much cash at the store and that was their policy, but the problem was that nobody explained that to me before they took my money, they should do so, if they have an issue with cash then they shouldnt take it at all, the only solution they gave me was to write me a check that could take up to six weeks to get it, and by the way, they only give you 10 days to make a return, not matter how expensive it is is it fails at day 11 you wont be able to make a return. Wow!! If thats how they treat their costumers then I dont want anything to do with them. From now on Ill buy anywhere else but Dodd, Amazon has better prices and ample time to return without the hassle.

Great store with great people--they have an extensive selection of rental equipment (lighting, audio, video). The studio space for rent is clean and adequate for almost anything you throw at it. Definitely worth a visit 8f you need something or want to talk shop.

It was great! The young lady that Assisted me was very Nice, she had a Sweet disposition, Professional and very helpful.

Do not go here if you want your money to disappear and they have no way to check where it went!! $1000 of my money gone and there is nothing they can do! Horrible horrible customer service from Francis and Allison. Do not rent from this place, zero stars.

Excellent store, very friendly and helpful staff, specially Jennifer who assisted me and was very patient. I definitely recommend this store for both professional and amateur photographers.

My experience at Dodd Camera was wholly positive, even though Id read some reviews that were less than that. Highly recommend.After two+ decades away from photography, Im making the leap from a 1980s-era analog Nikon and my old manual-focus lenses, skipping entirely the DSLR decades, and going straight into a new mirrorless camera--a Nikon Z6 II with interchangeable lenses. I needed some add-on equipment and some information.I received both from Dodd Camera.It was quiet when I arrived mid-afternoon. Unlike most big box stores I was not accosted by a sales person saying, Can I help you? when I came in. Sort of refreshing. I could only see one person, who was working quietly at the rental counter. No one was at the sales desk, but I heard voices in back. Okay, I thought. Theyre busy. No biggie.After walking the store for a few minutes to get the layout, I walked back to the counter. Now there were about five people chatting and two of them worked for Dodd.Sales person Taylor was ready immediately to answer my questions and provide advice, based on her knowledge as a photographer, with recommendations I found helpful. I ended up with the equipment I needed, including a much-longed for new tripod; I got advice on repairing my old analog camera; I got a ready smile and good-natured attitude that befits a sales person at a small retail outfit.In short, a great experience. I will definitely go back if I need more equipment.

A well equipped store. You can find the gear you need for your work.

It was great! I ordered a lens and I wasnt happy with it and they ordered me another lens. The service woman said well keep ordering lenses until we get it right. I love that!!

The only place of cameras that I know and they are so nice and helpful

The staff is knowledgeable of the products and o love the rental process and price. It’s seamless and gives the customer the opportunity to try before you buy approach.

First time here and they have all the equipment I would normally buy online. Its close to my house so the convenience great. The staff is very knowledgeable

Have been shopping here for years to buy backdrop stands, paper roll backdrops, gaffers tape (although sometimes I go to Barbizon for tape because it’s cheaper there), and recently bought a new Canon Pro camera from the store. I have always had great experiences with all this and also renting equipment. It’s really a great local store. The younger folks who work here are extremely nice and knowledgeable too!However I recently called in to ask some questions about renting equipment (they have a Saturday walk-in special where you can rent lenses and cameras etc at half price). The gentleman who answered the phone had an attitude with me which I found quite off putting. I am a non confrontational person but the way he was talking to me just left me feeling sour.

Its easy to shop online these days, but just a reminder to never forget the local brick & mortar shops. Especially if service is important to you!

One of the last brick and mortar camera stores in Chicago. Staff is very knowledgeable. #1 for me for photography gear.

Ryan was the most helpful gem. I had all of the questions & Ryan had all the answers plus insightful advice. So patient, thorough, & knowledgeable. I was deciding between several different cameras & accessories & Ryan made the process so smooth. Thank you Ryan! Support local camera stores everybody.

Great place for gear rentals!

Great customer service. The people here know how to help you out. The answer all of your questions and dont push products like some other places do. they definitely make commission so be careful. But every experience Ive had has been educational and helpful. I end up spending a lot of money anyway.

Great customer service! They werent pushy but did check in occasionally to see if I had any questions. I needed something they didnt have, so they found it online and arranged a special order for me.

Friendly and always willing to help out . Very professional camera store. I definitely would shop there

Amazing customer service! I go to them for all my camera needs and fixes

Great staff—very knowledgeable. Prices are fair but not cheap.

Great Experience! Super Helpful Staff, And I Would Suggest Any Of My Friends Looking To Get Photo or Video Equipment.

Helpful/friendly staff. Nice to have a local place to rent buy camera gear/accessories.

They have a great selection of Panasonic cameras at this store!

Excellent customer service.

This place is the best. Staff is top notch, super friendly and helpful. That makes all the difference.

Good prices and great customer service.

Im almost certain Dodd Camera is the last legitimate brick and mortar photography store in the city of Chicago.A couple things that would not be typical of a company that has somewhat of a monopoly:1. Their shelves are fully stocked with the latest and greatest in technology.2. Their staff is incredibly professional, knowledgable, and ready to help.Ive purchased a few items from Allison specifically but also worked with her colleagues. Whether its email, a phone call, or stopping by the store, and no matter who you talk to you you can always expect:1. Upfront answers and staff that is not afraid to say Im not sure let me go find out for you2. The best price, even going up against online competitors3. If something is outstanding, they will get back to you as opposed to you having to follow-up.4. As mentioned above, a general feeling like these folks want to be there and are happy to listen, educate, and problem solve.Its such a breath of fresh air to work with a group in the photography industry like Dodd Camera, Allison, and her colleageus.

The folks here are honestly like an extended family. Great variety of well-priced items and way too many fantastic options in the used department. I trust Dodd with all of my camera services and needs

Very helpful. Im a complete novice who bought an old cannon EOS Rebel. Needed a good compact flash card. A nice woman helped me and knew that sometimes larger capacity cards are rejected by older cameras. She made sure it worked then showed me how to use the camera for sports since I bought it to take pictures of my son. She was great.

Helpful!! Love this place!

Friendly staff and a modest selection of gear. Not as large as Central Camera, but Im happy I found this store on Google Maps. My only regret was coming in an hour before closing because I definitely needed more time to browse and chat.

Poor customer service!!!No deals no discounts, they treat you like amateur, higher taxes in store than buying online, no price match, I will keep using B&H New York or Adorama, taxes are cheaper and better deals from their sales persons when you call them and requested, for sure BH and Adorama are more reliable...

Very knowledgeable and great staff, so was very pleased. Could possibly have a larger selection but it had almost everything I needed!

Got a nice used lens, a Fuji 27 f2.8 here last year for half its retail price and it works well. Called to ask if they had a used Fuji 35mm f1.4 and within a week they had gotten one shipped from Cleveland. high price so i didn’t buy it, but it’s hard to find used Fuji lenses at many places besides online.

Friendly and knowledgeable staff, plus they gave my dog a treat.

Took a damaged lens there. They told me that the damage was not that bad it was functioning fine. Did not try to convince to repair or buy a new lens. Were very nice and attentive.

Knowledgeable, helpful staff. Focused towards professionals, but dont simply tolerate the average photographer. Parking available, but not clearly marked. Phone service is very good.

Friendly staff, always helpful!

Excellent service and professional that I bought profoto B1X from Dodd Camera via Amazon that has defect I just called Dodd the service guy just asked me come to make exchage.

Great place, it’s a photographers candy store. Really nice employees

Over priced and the camera I bought I was promised there was ample return policy because I am new. They said I couldnt return, But they offered to buy it back from me for 50% of what I paid, even though I used it once for 20min. No doubt to turn around and sell it for 75% more. I know they have to run a business but didnt seem to care at all about customers - or keeping them.

Dodd camera has been an invaluable asset in launching my photography career over the past year. Graham in particular has been incredibly helpful not just in setting up rentals but in helping me find the perfect tools for each job. They say fake it till you make it, but the knowledgeable staff at Dodd camera will give you the tips and tools you need to feel prepared for whatever comes your way.10 out of 10 can not recommend emphatically enough to anyone interested in or beginning a career in photographyAttached below are photographs taken using equipment rented from Dodd Camera

Ace was extremely helpful and everyone was knowledgeable. Thanks

Fantastic store. Staff was very helpful

Very good worker, helpful, caring. They have a lot of photo and video equipment and stuff. Often have some event, in last I have been: meeting with nice ambassador Fujifilm, who answered all the questions. And give to try all lens from Fujifilm.

Rude and dismissive. Ive never seen a person so disinterested in doing their very easy job. And if youre at work sick, wiping your nose with your hand prior to handling a Patrons camera gear is NEVER acceptable. Ill be a gentleman and not use his name. This is why brick and mortar stores #fail.

My go-to place for photography, equipment, and advice...and dreaming about where I would spend ridiculous amounts of money if I won the lottery.

Always love going here. Super friendly staff. Incredibly helpful and knowledgeable. Willing to suggest other places if they arent able to provide the service you need. This is definitely my first stop in the city for photo gear, rental or purchase.

I recently rented a camera and lenses from Dodd and had a fantastic experience. I consider myself an amateur professional and fully admit that I dont have all the technical knowledge of more experienced pro photographers. The folks at Dodd were so helpful and patient with all my questions and concerns, and did everything they could to be sure I had the right information and the right equipment to make my shoot a success. Could not have been more pleased and am so happy I found them!

Amazing photography all stop shop. I sold my Nikon D810 after switching over to the Sony body. Great service, very knowledgeable staff and I am please with the price they offered to buy my gear. Highly recommended.

Very friendly and knowledgeable staff. They took the time to teach me how to properly clean my camera lenses and suggested a DYI repair process on a used lens I bought that had dust in it. Very knowledgeable. Their store had a strong selection of Nikon and Canon products. Parking was very easy, they have a lot.

Nice store, great cameras and lenses.. and good guys at the counter.

Dont buy at this store! They will charge you a way higher tax than if you buy online or somewhere else. Even buying on their own website is cheaper than buying at the store. I called and they said that is because an additional county tax. I learned the hard way, payed almost double the tax on my GM Lens.

Very friendly, special ordered an item, and they lended me the rental unit until my purchased one arrived. Saved my photoshoot, cant thank them enough. Will definitely be visiting again!

June 1, 2018:With so many brick and mortar retailers disappearing, it is heartwarming to have returned home, and, being able patronize a real photographic equipment supplier.Dodd Camera is a professional caliber supplier. The sales associate was patient, and, quickly and efficiently assisted me with my equipment needs.Highly Recommended!Regards,Nathaniel Clark, Jr.LensIIKameraWerks,Inc.Jackson, MS

I went in for a few low budget items and was treated with same respect as some more serious spenders. They answered all of my questions and were helpful and patient. They recently moved next door to a roomier lighter space. If they dont have what you need, they will help you find it. Hoping to continue my relationship as a patron and bump this up to a 5-star rating!

I found a wonderful selection of Fujifilm equipment here. While I was there I tried out the X-T1 with various lenses, they had them all. It also seemed that they had just as large of a collection of Sony, Canon, and Nikon equipment. I was very impressed by the amount of production tools for sale as well. By far one of the best stocked stores in the city. I will be making many return trips as for my work and personal use.

They had what I wanted! I didnt have to wait on a delivery person, so Im satisfied!

I stopped by that store because I needed a Canon flash for my new Canon camera. After I bought it for several hundred dollars I went back after a couple weeks to ask some questions about the flash & they refused to explain anything about the flash. They were very rude & said they had no time to explain anything. At this point I told them I would not ever return to that store. Now I go to the one by the airport...much friendlier!

This is my local camera shop and they are pretty knowledgeable they’re service is pretty good. They rent current equipment but they don’t have rental insurance and you need a credit limit to cover cost of any damages. You can rent time in their studio. They will set you up with any equipment you need.

I found the service here to be superb! I found exactly what I needed. Got my questions answered. And went home with the camera I wanted as well as all the accessories I needed.

First time in here to return a rental they fed to my usual go-to shop. These guys are a little closer geographically and a little less behind-the-scenes which makes me feel some type of way. Anyway, Nathan immediately exuded knowledge and I will definitely find a reason to go back and see all that gear again! If you need something, or want to try something, check with Dodd!

We have been using Dodds rental equipment for years, weve never purchased equipment from them. So this review is based on the rental side.I cant speak for everyone, but for us they have done nothing but exceed our expectations for every encounter weve ever had there. They are always working hard to see whats available and are honest about product. I feel like when sometimes I know I am wasting their time with questions about equipment they are patient and always go beyond what they need to do to make sure I am being accommodated. They are always punctual about calling back if they dont know an answer to a question right away. If something we need isnt in Chicago they are always checking to see if something is in other locations. Even though we know they have other clients that spend a lot more than we do, they still treat us like we are important too. We had a shoot postponed until the next day because of a blizzard and when we called, they just moved the rental to the next day without a charge. Luckily, the rental gear wasnt being used that next day. We will always rent from Dodd.

They have earned my trust. As an amateur photographer my questions are answered without the feeling of being talked down to.They primarily rent and service professional equipment.

Super helpful, has what I need most of the time.

Impressive knowledge of equipment, understood what I needed and worked multiple options to find a solution within my budget. Fantastic customer service.... recommended to me by multiple pros..now I know why. Thank you!

I have been in the store several times. Sometimes to buy, other times to rent a piece of gear, other times to check something out. The people are always very helpful and courteous. They try to make a customer, not a sale. These days you can get a camera anywhere from Walmart to Costco to the Apple store. Because of a legal problem (which was eliminated by the Supreme Court last year) state and local sales taxes killed most high end camera retailers in the US, and there are very few left in Chicago. So if you want to be able to put your hands on a high-end pro camera before buying it, support your Chicago camera store.

Great camera store !Located in the city and a great selection of everything camera related. Rental department and a rental studio available. Friendly and knowledgeable staff

I usually write reviews about food and drinking, but I feel compelled to give a glowing five-star review to Dodd and the entire team there—thank you for such excellent service on even the most basic of purchases. I went in to purchase a new E-mount 50mm prime, and was given extraordinary attention and even directed to look at a used option which was in excellent condition, which I purchased. They match the same prices youll find on B&H and Adorama—if youre in town, support this shop! I will be back for many more purchases.

The staff is attentive and knowledgeable. They have so many different cameras and bags, lots of equipment and they even rent equipment and have studio space that they rent out. Awesome place if you ask me.

Great experience! The staff was extremely helpful. I made a few purchases the very day I walked in. I had to bring a wrist strap because I use a battery grip and it did not fit. They took it back no questions asked. Ill be there again!

For the most pasty the services offered and prices are alright. But the service is actually terrible. The workers do not treat every customer the same. All they try to do is get you to buy the most expensive and don’t have good insight on affordable items. There film developing service is the main thing I used but whenever I’d come back they’d always forget who I was and would often charge me without my 20% discount.

I love this shop. The guys are always helpful, and they keep their gear pretty up to date. Theyve got a nice range of stuff for photo or video in my experience.

Great Place to shop & rent photographic equipment. Great deals and very helpful staff with many years of experience.

I went there to pick up a lens today and the worker who helped me was super helpful, friendly and down to earth.

They know their stuff. And have all of the best gear. Go here instead of Best Buy.

I’ve spent a lot of money at this camera shop but it’s time to take my business elsewhere judging from customer experience. I’m really disappointed on how Graham, one of the sales guys, handled my call when I called back to inquire about a manfrotto tripod. I did not feel as a valued customer who have spent money and is actually in their database. I’m disgusted by his attitude so I’ll take my business elsewhere. Besides their prices are overpriced.

The staff at Dodd camera truly went above and beyond to help us out in many ways. They will definitely be our first choice for any future lens rentals!

These guys always help me find solutions to my photography needs. Very helpful and resourceful. One of the only professional camera stores left in Chicago.

Amazing array of photography equipment, in a very welcoming space, with amazingly knowledgeable staff who really want you to enjoy your experience in the store & with their equipment.

I stopped in to check out a lens that I was considering ordering online. Ivan was super helpful and answered all of my questions-super knowledgeable and a cool guy. I ended up buying it and the experience couldnt have been better. Thanks!

The staff are very helpful and know about the gear they sell. When they dont know, they are willing to call a product Rep or check Google.

I will NEVER shop here again. Ive been here about 7 times over the past year purchasing gear and simple accessories. out of that experience Ive only had one Older gentle really treat me like a customer with respect. everyone else seemed too and busy and too pretentious to properly assist....Ive never shop at a place where employees offer you equipment that you never asked for, cant find the equipment you came in for after admitting the computer showed 4 in stock. lastly every time I been in this store and had a simple question about some new tech, most respond to me with Oh, that is expensive . which is what lead me here. I rarely write reviews, however I felt it was necessary this time because I felt insulted. I feel your workers think Im a 24 year old film school kid because I look young for my age. Im38 and have a degree in Animation. I am a Artist by profession. I will never spend another dime there because of these awkward encounters. Truthful, I feel Im treated this way because I look black and I look young based on how your employees have always treated me while in your store. Dodd Camera you need to have a team meeting about how you treat people. my experience has been offensive 6 out of 7 times Ive shop there. love my products but Im done with your store. Funny thing is your never knew or cared I shopped there anyway so Im sure I wont be missed.CiaoQuori Senyon

We just rented gear for the first time. The staff was friendly and helpful. They had exactly what I was looking for (Nikon D600, lens, audio recorder, etc.). The equipment was top notch and really well-priced. Couldnt have had a better experience.

Very helpful people. Loved the well informed advice. Will be back there soon.

Very helpful store to have nearby. I broke my tripod head while visiting Chicago, and employee Ryan L was very helpful in selecting a new one and installing it for me while I lacked the proper tools.

There was an issue of them managing to submit a check twice, physically and then electronic. DOOD got paid on it twiceStill has not been resolved and this has caused a HUGE financial mess, including me returning the camera I initially bought. But I still havent gotten a refund from the double dip.I can no longer do business with this company

Well,I Just Bought this small Camera from Amazon so I went to dodds Camera for some Basic Information on this Camera & Upon walking in I ask for the Basic Functions of this Camera.The Individual who helped me SaidYou want me to help you for free on how to work this Camera??? Keep in Mind,Im not Computer/or Tech Savy,So he tells me A few things I Already knew.So what I received from Dodd Camera in this visit was I may not be able to connect to my Phone and the guilt of Having to Pay $5.00 for Basic Information!!! So Any exchange of Information,Be ready to tip the Dodd Attendant $$$ Money for Basic Information!!!!!!!!!!!

I have rented equipment here quite a few times and they always have what Im looking for. The staff is very knowledgeable and friendly. Always answering my questions and providing suggestions when needed.

I stoped by the store to buy a sling day bag and Aaron was extremely helpfull. I chose the best and I absolutely love it! I will be back to this store becasue I liked the vibe.

David was great with answering questions that I had.

Staff was super friendly and helpful! Will do business again. And they have just about EVERYTHING, accept bad attitudes. A joy!

I have been renting from here for years. Very knowledgeable staff and my orders were always ready for pick up.

Probably its a nice store but not the help in there. I was looking for a camera but thanks to the service at this place I ordered at ebay. You are not the only one dodd.Educate your personal to give service.

I worked with Joey on finding some Canon gear, and was impressed with the customer service and knowledge base of the staff at Dodd. This is the place to go for rentals if you can get there easily. Would recommend!

Best customer service will work with you well and awesome shopping experience . Im very happy with this shop and looking to do more business with them .

Ive always had flawless experiences renting camera equipment from Dodd. Friendly and helpful staff and the equipment has always been in perfect condition. Definitely recommend!

Great service! Knowledgeable staff

Bought some cleaning cloth for my lens... good price... buy two get third free. They also have film for 35 and 120 cameras.