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Camera store
Central Camera Company
230 S Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL 60604
Storied family-owned camera shop selling equipment, film & hard-to-find items since 1899.
What this shop offers
Every line below is evidence-backed — pulled from what customers wrote in their reviews of Central Camera Company, or from the shop's own website. Call ahead if a specific job matters.
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Used gear 6 mentions
“They have a large selection of used cameras and lenses to meet your needs, and the staff is very knowledgeable and friendly.”
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from the business listing
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listed on their own site
What photographers highlight
The themes that come up again and again in reviews of Central Camera Company.
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Film in stock 6 mentions
“They hands down have the best film selection in the city and absolutely love getting prints with my processed film.”
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Deep used selection 4 mentions
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Knowledgeable staff 3 mentions
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A local institution 2 mentions
“The fella that used to teach photography for almost 2 decades has so much passion for it.”
Brands mentioned at Central Camera Company
Photographic brands named on the shop's own site or in customer reviews. Stock moves — call before making a trip for a specific body or lens.
What customers say
Such a great place to go if you're a camera nerd and even if you aren't. Film camera, especially. Everyone was so extremely nice. It was fairly busy when we went, and they still were attentive. I almost felt like I was in a movie about a camera store. Each employee has a great and memorable personality.
Decent shop with decent people. Stopped here for a battery and it turns out my camera was broken. Al and other shop associates were very friendly. The stick selection is solid and they have a variety of film and camera for purchase. I left the shop with 2 rolls of film! I’ll be back for sure.
I’d give 10 stars if it was possible! The store is lovely, with a great selection of cameras, film and accessories. There’s so much to browse, at great quality and reasonable prices. The staff is super knowledgeable, approachable, kind and generous with their advice and time.
Love this store! I’ve stopped in a few times recently for film and camera accessories and everyone is kind and the prices are comparable to what I’ve seen online. I recently stopped in after having an issue with loading my film and Tim went above and beyond to assist.
Hours & location
Opening hours
| Monday | Closed |
| Tuesday | 10 am–5 pm |
| Wednesday | 10 am–5 pm |
| Thursday | 10 am–5 pm |
| Friday | 10 am–3 pm |
| Saturday | 10 am–3 pm |
| Sunday | Closed |
Getting there
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