Camera House West

I am sad Camera House West is closed. I didn't go there as often as I would have liked because I lived too far away, but whenever I was in the area I went in to browse. The owner was always very nice and helpful, giving me advice about developers, darkroom supplies, etc. He even burned me a CD full of developing techniques and instructions when he found out I was attempting to develop my own black and white film. Others have complained that it was more expensive than buying online. To that I say...well, DUH. It's always cheaper to buy online because websites don't have as many overhead costs. It wasn't that much more, maybe an extra dollar for every roll of film. I was happy to pay a little extra to keep the place in business, since there are no physical locations in or around Joliet where you can just walk in and buy supplies for analog photography. Everything is primarily concerned with digital and is a big chain like Best Buy. I chose to support a local business. Anyway, once he found out I was a film enthusiast he was always offering me darkroom stuff for cheap. Yes, even cheaper than I could get the same stuff online. So it usually balanced out. I am very sorry to hear he is battling cancer and was forced to close the business. Now I don't know of any place I can go to buy chemicals and film short of traveling all the way to Chicago.

This store is only good if you are looking for certain types of film & darkroom supplies. Prices were a bit expensive. Store is never open according to it's hours posted.So it's a hit or miss when you go. Attitude & service from the store owner was very poor & rude. As a paying customer I was treated with disrespect and was not able to have my questions answered. I would not recommend this store to my friends due to the poor quality of the service, especially from the store owner. It's easier & cheaper just to order your supplies online.

The owner is very knowledgable and has years of experience with photography. I am thrilled to find a small store that still offers film cameras and darkroom supplies.

I was there browsing just checking the place out and the entire I was there the employee or owner of the place was holding a personal conversation for about 5minutes still no customer service no greeting I got sick of it and I leave as I was walking out the door he finally acknowledges me and asked if I had a quick question some customer service