Reviews of Nicholas Cameras. (Computer Store) in London (London).

Nicholas Cameras

186 Reviews

107 Comments

Computer store

Camera store

15 Camden High St, London NW1 7JE, United Kingdom

Description

Information of Nicholas Cameras, Computer store in London (London)

On this page you’ll find the address, open hours, more popular times, the contact, photos and real reviews of this business.

This business has received very good reviews from their customers, so probably it’s a place you should try if you are looking for this kind of services.

Map

Open hours of Nicholas Cameras

Reviews of Nicholas Cameras

L. S.

This shop is amazing. It has a touch of the 1970s and I say that as a compliment . The world we live in is very rushed and computer orientated. It is so refreshing to be greeted with a helpful attitude, willing to slow down and really explain plus advise the correct camera needs ( especially for someone starting out on their photography journey).I highly recommended and am glad to shout out that I will be back and shan't shop anywhere else, so I hope that Nicholas Cameras are there for another 50 years plus.

B. H.

Being a foreigner, they were so kind and far beyond my expectations. I got a stand, they recommended a level for my camera, and threw in a bag for the stand. Very knowledgeable but more importantly took the time to help me. Simply Outstanding !

B. S.

Nicholas Cameras is a shop that priorities their relationship with customers, and the fact that they are still in business after 5 decades proves that. Passionate about photography and treating customers with hospitality is what I would describe them. I came here as a person who knows almost nothing about analogue photography and trying to get a film camera to get into it. The staff in the shop were super kind and patient in explaining everything I need to know, not only giving information on the camera but also the historical context to it. Since I live near the shop, I came here every Saturday for three weeks consecutively and each time wanting to look at a new camera. Despite I left the shop each time not making a decision, they were understanding and did not force me into any decision. In the end, I decided not to purchase a camera at all due to personal reasons and to my surprise, there was no negative reaction from the members at all. We even had a chat and became friends in the end. Their cameras are of great quality as they demonstrate and I would definitely return if I need any photography equipments.

G. N.

Stunning collection of amazingly rare cameras. The staff were very kind and found me the filter, lens hood and tripod I was looking for. A rare gem in this internet obsessed world. You may actually buy something you didn’t know about already if you enter with an open mind. I can’t believe other reviews encouraging customers to come into the shop, google online prices and even ebay. What planet are you from ? Do you understand margins and how business works. No wonder the poor owner gets stressed out. Thanks for all your help, George

C.

Very kind and helpful staff, who clearly take great care when it comes to helping people find the right camera for them. I've been to the shop twice and have felt very comfortable as someone who's a novice when it comes to film photography! Would recommend to a friend!

F.

I’m very new to the world of photography. John and lashe were no-judgemental, patient and friendly. They took their time to educate me and my partner on the different cameras types, lens and accessories. I purchased a Olympus OMD from this store which is great and my first picture came out great for a rookie. I highly recommend this store 5/5 Femi

T. A.

A very fine experience with the people at Nicholas cameras company. I don’t normally write reviews but you should definitely visit the store for knowledge on cameras & the best specs. You’ll be greeted by John. This man is a very distinguished gentleman, yes yes. Ask the right questions & you’ll get the right but most interesting & knowledgeable responses. ( John if you’re reading this, do get into voice acting. ) Then you’ve got Max. A cool and refined lad, who knows about the subject he’s talking on & you can hire him too for private lessons. Lastly, you’ve got Lashe. He’s the 6ft+ lad who I advised to get into modelling but still thinks he’s not ready. He’s the quite guy but he’s always keeping his eyes open & knows what he’s talking about… Moreover, even if you aren’t into cameras visit the store & be around great people. - FREDD

A.

Phoned on a friday afternoon just before closing time and person searched high and low and was most helpful in trying to locate an obscure power adaptor I was looking for. Very helpful and recommended.

B. S.

Nicholas Cameras is the kind of place that's so good you almost don't want to tell anybody. But it's surely better to. I've been looking for old lenses to use with modern cameras. They've got a lot of gear there and John is enthusiastic and deeply knowledgable. And there's no hurry. These are old school values which have largely disappeared and perhaps were never that widespread in reality. And guess what? It's not even expensive. I've checked the prices against the net. Not that different. Plus you get to handle the kit then and there. I'll be back.

N. M.

The shop owner is super knowledgeable about cameras and camera history and he was very patient and willing to answer any questions I had. I came in looking for a camera lens for my film camera and he made sure to let me try out multiple different lenses to really get a feeling for which one would suit me best. He also offered me grapes the first time I visited the shop which I thought was funny/sweet. So far the lens I purchased seems like just what I was looking for and I can't wait to see my pictures!

R. M.

Amazing camera shop! Very knowledgeable and friendly staff, very helpful in guiding you to find your perfect gear. The shop itself it's a gem! A huge collection of old and new cameras and lens. Highly recommended!

菅.

My UV lens is broken. When I first stepped into the store, Nicholas welcomed me. He is so kind and patient about my questions. It only took couple of minutes for the staff to fix the lens, which is very efficient!!!

B. O.

I have seen so many bad comments but I cannot figure out how it’s even possible. I have been received by a lovely man called John, this man is truly passionate and is such a nice person. I was with my friends and we stayed there for almost two hours just talking photography and more... This store has everything you want, believe me, EVERYTHING ! Thx so much from four French teenagers to John and his young colleague for such a memorable experience in London. Definitely go there it’s “da best”

Z. A.

I went there yesterday with my little brother to find a film camera. I'm new to all of this and they were incredibly kind and patient with me giving me a whole tutorial on how to change film and offering to do it for me. They answered all of my questions(even the dumb ones) and provided me with all the things I would need (i.e a case, strap, batteries). Would definitely recommend!

L. R.

Highly recommended! I came in for a diagnosis on a fault with my camera and they were super helpful and got my camera working. Very friendly expert bunch thanks 😊

J. D.

Visited Nicolas Cameras today to get some parts and see lenses for my SLR. I couldn't recommend the service enough - the staff are friendly and can talk about almost any camera; however I would not recommend buying old parts from here, unless you're after something very specific or don't want to search online. Better prices can be had elsewhere, especially on some of their vintage gear.

b.

Popped in on the advice of a shop assistant in Park Cameras and was told to ask for John, tell him our budget and needs and he would do the rest. Both john and his assistant were polite and helpful in the extreme and we walked out happily with our ‘new’ cameras. Will definitely be back in the future!

D. S.

My camera was dropped Christmas Day and upon inspection it turned out that the bayonet lens mount of my 16-50mm lens had cracked. Google search on how to fix it was unhelpful, as it just gave me step by step instructions on how to superglue the broken bits is back on. I took it apart and realised I needed a whole new bayonet replacement part, which I ordered and received. But one of the screws (next to the digital connectors) seemed to be glued down. So I contacted the Fujifilm service centre (who asked for £100), several camera repair shops that said they wouldn’t touch it and then finally Nicholas cameras in Camden, who offered me a used lens in exchange for £80 and my broken lens. Bargain. Done. Customer Service at its best.

J. Y.

super nice! they checked both of my cameras for free and gave me many advices; could not recommend more. thank you so much

M. W.

Stopped by to get some advice on a film camera I had no idea how to work. The gentleman was really friendly and took his time to explain how to work the camera. Considering the camera wasn’t actually bought from the shop, I was surprised at how willing he was to help. Will definitely return when buying camera equipment in the future.

N. F.

Incredibly kind, knowledgeable and thoughtful staff. My point and shoot had stopped working after an exploded battery and they immediately fixed the problem, free of charge, and gave me excellent advice on another camera of mine. Honestly can’t thank them enough.

R. R.

Possiblly one of the best experiences I've ever had in a camera shop. Highly recommend

A. D.

Visited Nicolas Camera shop just over a week ago & couldn’t recommend them enough! The staff were friendly & helpful, kindly cleaning my camera too. Also bought a camera at a great price 😊

V. P.

I can only assume the people who gave this shop a bad review were either having a bad day or didn't get what they wanted, but they are irrisponsible and almost stopped me getting incredible service and a wealth of knowledge I received today. Ignore the bad reviews

T. D.

Loved the staff! Loved the vibe of the shop. I bought a nice point and shoot camera and a lens and to my surprise we were able to negotiate a very good deal! The guy who is behind the counter definitely, knows his stuff. He spent an HOUR talking with me and walking me through all the options. I already saw my next purchase, and I will be coming back there very soon!

S. C.

John and his assistant were really helpful in finding us a reasonably priced point and shoot film camera, and helped with explaining all the features and differences between the ranges they carry. Left with a nice little Fujifilm and a wrist strap thrown in for free.

R. D.

Really brilliant place! So few shops like this now. Popped in to buy some very reasonably priced film. Not a huge place but packed to the rafters with amazing analogue cameras of all flavours. The guy behind the counter was a real gent and really knows his stuff. I'd Highly recommend popping in even if its just for a peep and some sound advice!

R. B.

Found this shop by pure accident, what a gem it is. Full of charm and every film camera you could ever think of. Was planning to buy a Nikon F5 on ebay from Japan, saw one in the window, and after some top advice and interesting insight from the owners, bought it that very day. Rare to be able to view, hold and compare film cameras anywhere these days. A real one of a kind!

H. T.

Had a really great experience here. The staff are all very knowledgeable and helped us find the perfect camera for my girlfriend. Really great camera and very well priced.

M. U.

Awesome service. John took all the time to explain to me differences between lenses and how to take care of them. Also gave me advice and other advice related to cameras. Besides, he allowed me to try the lenses and if I was not completely satisfied wth the product to change for other. Could not be more grateful!

A. D. C.

I found the staff extremely kind, professional and available, they take all the time to help each client. The shop is incredible! I will definitely go back for any repair or new purchase.

U. B.

Quite the cornucopia of camera bits and pieces. The chaps were really very helpful solving a charging issue with my Panasonic tz100 and didn't even charge me for the service. Great to have a proper enthusiasts' shop like this surviving on the high street!

J. B.

This is the best camera shop in London. The most knowledgeable and the most honest. The only place I'd go for advice or to buy. I can't recommend them enough.

M. H.

The customer service was excellent, the advisor was superbly knowledgable, he was very patient and spent the time to advise me on some technical aspects regarding lens. I’m highly appreciative, he steeled in the right direction. High recommendable,

R. L.

Visited this place because I needed a camera on a budget for the weekend (I'd forgotten to bring my digital). I knew exactly what I wanted, how much I had to spend and the gentleman owner helped me walk out with a bargain. We had a great time while we were at it! I know some reviewers have complained about his manner but I would suggest they perhaps haven't afforded him the respect he deserves. This guy knows his cameras and will give advice based on your needs. If you go in expecting to pay £20 for a mint condition Minolta x500 then you'll probably not be taken seriously while we were in there a number of people came in asking specific questions and were given sound advice. If you want a 35mm camera, or something older, or a lens, this is the shop for you. I found the owner to be knowledgeable, accommodating, honest and kind. And I've got a brilliant Olympus 35rc that saved my memories for me in London!

B. M.

The owner of this shop is one of the most unique and wonderful human beings I have ever met. He's clearly completely mad, but if you afford him the respect and patience he deserves you will be rewarded. Reading these reviews its strange that so many photographers who see the beauty in the world around them can be blind to the charm of this shop. Enjoy your time at Currys.

w.

The last camera shop in London. An amazing place a real Aladdin’s cave - such knowledgable guys and very helpful - you can find almost anything you need. They are very happy to take the time - prices are very

E. J.

I've popped in before and although the last manager was very knowledgable, he wasn't always the friendliest. New management could not be more friendly and helpful. There aren't many shops like this around anymore and I'd 100% recommend this one.

B. T.

Really great shop, I know nothing about cameras and he gave me non bias advice and talked me out of buying one of his own cameras. Non condescending and friendly service

J. H.

Today ultimately was a life affirming visit. It was just so fantastic how quickly my camera issue was solved and how kindly I was dealt with. I’ve never experienced such personable service anywhere, ever. This is a gem of a store. Visit immediately if you have any interest in cameras and I assure you you will not be disappointed. Absolute magic.

Y. Z.

Old school camera shop Probably the best in London! ! !.The owner is very friendly and knowledgeable. Not to be missed whether you are a camera enthusiast or just a beginner want to learn more about cameras and photography.

T. A.

Very extensive range and great knowledge by the store manager - always incredibly helpful and has helped a lot in finding the fight fit for the camera that you need.

G. A.

I bought my first camera from Nicholas, a charming kind soul with an extensive knowledge that surpasses every shop in London! I can guarantee it. A charming location in Camden, they have everything I need for my kit and more, my first camera that I bought second hand 8 years ago from here is still working perfectly. Ever grateful for this gem!

J. S.

Lovely place - found an old school camera as a present that was extremely well priced. Genuinely nice people behind the counter who seem to love photography.

A. H.

I was actually warned that the owner was super rude but he was just really, really NICE and lovely. He checked my camera for free and told me about all the options I had without trying to sell something. I can only recommend this shop as I he really knows what he is talking about.

T. J.

I wanted to get into film photography and wanted a decent camera tgat I could get on the cheaper side. I met with an older gentleman who worked with me for the better part of an hour explaining the differences between camera types, what was available at my price range and what I could get if I lowered or raised that a bit. Then, when I did decide on one that seemed simple enough for me to use, he walked me through what all of the switches and toggles did and how to use it, going as far to show me how to load the film which I had also bought from them. Exceptional knowledge, selection, and care to their craft and the customer.

A. H.

Came in for a quick look around and ended up staying for an hour! For any film camera enthusiast this is candy for your eyes, the guy I spoke to was full of energy and a laugh and a half. Unfortunately not having what I need it looks like I'll be returning again! Certainly a shop you MUST visit!!

B. E.

Its a old school camera shop. So nice. Yea of course you could go online...but this place got me all set and the fun experience looking and talking was worth it. 15 euros more than amazon...but thats the cost of the entertainment and help. Just go and get your camera ready!

L. K.

I stumbled upon Nicholas Cameras on my way to the underground when their impressive selection of TLR's caught my eye. I inquired about the price of said cameras, even atter being warned the store was closing in 5 minutes and the gentleman working could not sell me anything so close to closing time. I told him I was just visiting and wouldn't be able to make it back before I had to go back home to Canada. I begged him to help me find one in my price range. He called me "American Girl" the entire time, but he raked through his collection and helped me walk away with a stellar piece with a hell of a good deal. I just developed my first roll of medium format and it's perfect - I couldn't be happier! 10/10 would recommend. I love this place.

F. H.

Absolutely fantastic service - Friendly, knowledgeable and clearly passionate about cameras. There's a whole Aladdin's cave of stock, if you need anything camera related give it a try!

B. B.

Brought nearly all my video, 35mm, Medium Format camera equipment from there and have revised incredible advice about photography, all very professional. Most of these bad reviews are from hack photographers or amateurs/googlers posing as professionals. I've been a working professional for well over 6 years. I'm sure he'd help anyone who is honest about what they need, don't try bulls**t him, he knows it all, so why would you. You can't learn everything from the internet, especially in regards to cameras. If you want advice, this is one of the last places servicing really passionate photographers and filmakers. Incredible selection of stock, beyond your wildest dreams if you love photography, don't assume.

K. W.

I am actually surprised with all those bad reviews. Last week I went there to buy EOS to 4/3 adapter so I could use my EF-S lens on Lumix G7. The young guy was friendly and knowledgeable. I got what I wanted for slightly higher than ebay price and this little piece of gear delivers exactly the same results as I was told. As a matter of fact I am planning to visit them again as they have amazing choice of different bits and pieces through which I'd be happy to browse for hours...

E. P.

I went to Nicholas Cameras on Saturday as I needed advise on my camera and to purchase a new lens. I was very impressed by the level of personal customer service, something that seems to be missing from big shops, and the very attentive staff. Thank you for the advice and recommendations. I shall be coming back soon for the other apparatus I need to update.

M. C.

I guess I caught the old man on a good day? He was super friendly and knew exactly what to look for when I inquired about a certain metal hood for a fifty year old lens. Sold me an old polaroid pack film back for a forty year old camera for a reasonable price. Will definitely return for more parts and cameras.

J. B.

It has taken me two years to track down the bulb for a Kodak Ektalite Slide Projector, two years that included going to shops, trying the internet, all sorts. And then I stumbled upon Nicholas Cameras. The guy couldn't have been more charming and helpful. This man doesn't just sell projector bulbs. He unlocks memories. Now at last, I can have the slide show I wanted to have two years ago, and my brother and I can take that trip back in time to when we were boys. Well worth lugging a heavy projector across London for.

M. C.

I've been coming to Nicholas Camers for years because they have quite possibly the largest range in London. Since the new young man has taken over I have seen a marked difference in the store and the level of customer service, he was polite and had good all round product knowledge so it is now a pleasure to shop for my lenses etc.

T. W.

This is the best camera shop in the world for me. On account of the amazing owner. Shop has been here 42 years and the current owner a mere 27 years. Got my first camera from him and great to see he is still here.

M. P.

Really knowledgable staff who were very helpful in explaining the differences between lenses and didn’t push me to buy the more expensive items. Would definitely recommend and come here again.

S. K.

This shop is a rare treasure. The owner is oldschool and knows his stuff very well. I have seen many complains about him on the internet, but in my opinion they are wrong and misguiding. There are several reasons of why people might feel that they had been treated badly. Most likely they dont know how to deal with an older man coming from a different culture. If you show respect and if you are patient you will get exactly what you wantand more. If you have paid too much for an item you should have done your homework in advance and say what you are willinfg to pay. However, if you think you will get Ebay prices in a shop that is located on a London highstreet you are a fool. No shop can surfive by offering ebay prices. This shop delivers quality customer service. If you are looking for rare collector items, newe SLR or medium format cameras, or second hand studio lighting you are at the perfect place. If you find it difficlut to deal with people and are expecting a corporate smile, then I suggest you go to Calumet or Jessops and pay more money. Yes, items are sometimes not in the shop but if you can wait one or two days he will get it for you and you can play around with it before you buy. If he feels you are just waisting his time, are asking tons of questions, and are touching everything then dont be surprised that he will loose his patience. I would ask you to leave the shop as well lol. It is never a mistake to go to Nicholas Cameras to find what you are looking fort. I am going there since I started photography and he has always been very helpfull. I hope this helps.

A. B.

Been to the store today as I was hunting around for a vintage lens, left empty-handed and a little nonplussed. To their credit, the store looks like a potential motherlode of old gear and the young guy who helped me was very polite and patient while I slowly sifted through a big crate of Soviet and DDR lenses. They definitely had some interesting stuff in there and given that some of it was in average to poor condition (dirty elements, jammed filters, no caps, dings and scratches) I was hoping to grab a bargain - eventually however I did not buy anything as the price quoted for the items I chose was way over the top... even after the guy offered to knock a little bit off the initial quote, it was still almost double the average price on Ebay for the same gear in mint condition. I worked retail myself and understand there are running costs associated with having store premises and what not but I felt that bordered on profiteering. Shame, as the place definitely has potential. My actual vote would be 2.5 out of 5 but I'll round it up as the guy was nothing but helpful even when I made it clear I wouldn't buy anything.

M. W.

First time here. My Nikon wasn't working. They looked at it, did a couple things, fixed it and didn't charge me. I tried to give them £20 toward their lunch. They wouldn't take it. I'll definitely come back.

G. L. M.

Excellent service. Very efficient. Will totally recommend.

C. B.

Walked in and was greeted by a friendly, witty, older gentleman who completely knew what he was talking about with absolute certainty. He was incredibly warm and helpful, he solved our problem in a flash, explained exactly what we should do next and the shop is possibly the coolest place I've seen in London

U. V.

Unlike the reviews Which gives a negative impression, I had a positive experience in selling my Nikon lens. It was swift and I chatted with the owner about lenses and photography for 10 minutes.

R. E.

Had a memorable visit to this Aladdin's cave of a camera shop. Solved my problem after I thought my old ciné projector was doomed. I could not have had more charming, helpful and knowledgeable service.

S. T.

Love that place! The vibe of the shop is really authentic, I highly recommend you should just go and have a look. There are some nice deals there. The staff members are very kind and very educated in the area.

M. L.

The coolest camera shop in London! Some really impressive stock and friendly staff.

P. F.

Got already 3 lenses from him and never had issues, He knows a lot, perhaps you can find better prices on eBay or Amazon ( I Prefer to buy directly ), but this place has everything you need, If you pay peanuts, you get monkeys !

N. N.

Wanted extra lens for my camera. I am not very knowledgeable photography wise. I was given lots of advice and served with smile.

C. C.

I'm not sure why, I just really love this shop. It has such stock dating back years that gives such a great sense of nostalgia. A unqiue shop, the staff had good product knowledge and didnt pressure me to buy so I will be back next time I'm in Camden.

N. W.

Incredible customer service from John- professional, wide ranging, helpful and very highly recommended! Even if they don't have what you might be looking for, you won't regret just enquiring!

C. R.

Great help for a beginner like me, they didn’t push me into buying something I don’t need Thanks again to John and his coworkers !!

F. H.

Brilliant service. Seems like a very genuine, honest guy who just wants to help people with their camera needs.

W. M.

Probably the most interesting camera shop in London. Aesthetically really cool but would not buy a camera from there due to the mess and clutter, camera’s are just thrown in boxes on top of each other.

k. “. b.

Great store, very nice crew, great choice of camera and lens

O. A.

friendly and knowledgable staff helped me pick an excellent camera for a great price. thank you!

A. G.

Brought my girlfriends camera here... Really nice young lad helped me, knew loads about the camera and offered a one month guarantee on a 40 year old camera. So glad to help a local business!!!!

T. D.

The staff are amazing, they are helpful and knowledgeable, really good prices, an amazing shop

S. N.

I've been here twice and I'm very satisfied with the customer service! (I went in for some tips, I didn't actually buy anything -_-) but that didn't matter to them, they were very friendly.

J. K.

Super helpful, really friendly great place

P. W.

Very helpful team - know all there is to know about film cameras. Recommend

J. M.

Happy to use Nicholas Camera again, good pricing, great camera quality. I will definitely be purchasing from them again.

L. G.

I was served by a lovely young man, knew what he was talking about. So I would go back however I find the prices too high and the website shocking and the owner incredibly rude!

Y. P.

Get a warranty, know what you're doing, don't waste the guy's time and you'll have a wonderful experience at Nicholas camera

S. B. M.

I’m a loyal customer the owner is very kind and helpful I am a camera collector and this is my place to buy

a.

Friendly knowledgeable, be careful you'll get stuck there talking to him for hours. Great range.

R. R.

Ended up having a very simple issue but nevertheless the man was very helpful and through

R. W.

Knowledgeable curators of an aladin's cave of vintage cameras, lens, and everything in between!

F. R. (.

There is a huge choice, lot of cameras, lenses etc., but the place is terribly dirty.

M. d.

Brilliant - all sort of second hand cameras, with great service

j. n.

Lovely man and really helpful

J. J.

Great experience, got what I needed, recommend you check out

M. H.

They we're a great help! Will visit again 😊

K. R.

Old school with real characters serving behind the counter a Mecca for camera old school collectors.

a. a.

Super helpful and friendly staff

E. R.

my go to camera shop

R. D. R.

lovely and helpful!

R. H.

The last great analog camera shop in the U.K.

K. K.

Good

T. G.

Alladins cave

S. P.

(Translated) I can't understand the bad reviews regarding friendliness. I bought a camera there today and got great advice. Can only recommend this store (Original) Ich kann die schlechten Bewertungen bezüglich Freundlichkeit nicht nachvollziehen. Habe heute dort eine Kamera gekauft, bin super beraten worden. Kann diesen Laden nur empfehlen

일.

(Translated) They were really kind. If you come back to London, I definitely want to visit again! (Original) 정말 친절한 두 사람이었습니다. 런던에 다시 온다면 꼭 재방문 하고 싶어요!

R. Ś.

(Translated) Ok good service (Original) Ok dobra obsluga

I. M.

E. A.

l. a.

D. V.

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