When asking yourself about something to do near me in San Diego with a group of friends or family, consider
Nelson Photo & Video
Why Nelson Photo & Video is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Nelson Photo & Video, located at 3625 Midway Dr Ste J in San Diego, CA, is a beloved photography destination for both amateurs and professionals. This well-rounded establishment offers a comprehensive range of services including film development, photo printing, camera equipment rentals, repairs, and video transfers. Whether you are looking to develop 35mm or sheet film, produce high-quality prints, or rent state-of-the-art photographic gear, Nelson Photo & Video provides expert solutions to suit your needs. The store also hosts photography classes and events, making it a vibrant community hub for learning and creative growth. Their photo lab promises a quick turnaround of about 36 hours, ensuring your images are ready promptly. Visitor convenience is a priority, with wheelchair accessibility, multiple payment options including Apple Pay, private lot parking, bike parking, and EV charging stations available. The friendly and knowledgeable staff, such as Sayra at the development center, contribute to a welcoming atmosphere where customers feel personally attended to. From film enthusiasts seeking development services to hobbyists looking for rentals or prints, Nelson Photo & Video offers an inviting and well-equipped environment perfect for catching up with friends or pursuing creative passions.
Here's what people think of Nelson Photo & Video
As of recent, Nelson Photo & Video holds a 4.3-star rating based on 359 reviews.
Customer reviews for Nelson Photo & Video highlight the store’s friendly and knowledgeable staff as a standout aspect, with many patrons specifically praising employees like Sayra who provide exceptional and personalized service. Positive feedback focuses on the quality of their film development and printing services, complimenting the professional results and timely turnaround. Customers also appreciate the welcoming atmosphere and the sense of community fostered by Nelson’s events and classes. Additionally, patrons find the convenient location and amenities such as wheelchair accessibility and ample parking to be valuable. On the downside, some negative reviews mention occasional delays in service or equipment availability during peak times and note that pricing for some rental equipment or services can be higher compared to competitors. However, these criticisms are relatively infrequent and are often balanced by the excellent customer support and professionalism experienced by most visitors. Overall, the general consensus from reviews is that Nelson Photo & Video is a reliable and friendly establishment that caters well to a diverse range of photography needs, making it a trusted choice for the San Diego community and beyond.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Azra Tucakovic
We ordered our Canon G7X Mark II digital camera from the Nelson Photo & Video website and we are so happy! We emailed the website to see if our purchase can any come faster, as we are leaving on a trip in less than a week. We got a very quick response back from Adam stating that the camera will arrive soon and it came super fast (less than 3 business days!) The package also came with cool stickers and a personalized note. We will definitely be doing business again with Nelson! Awesome customer service and super quick shipping! We LOVE our new camera!
Alexis Guzman
this was the only shop that had the power shot sx740 hs that was reasonably priced for being new. they restocked pretty quick too! everything came in perfectly with no issues! would buy from this store again :)
Marc Morris
Great crew. Beautiful store with good selection. Accessible parking, too, which can be tough to find at some camera stores. If you're in and around San Diego, Nelson's Photo is absolutely worth your time.
Alex Lepe
I had a great experience with Nelson Photo & Video. I ordered a Fujifilm X100VI camera which is really hard to get since it's sold out everywhere but the order didn't go through since it was oversold, Eric let me know right away it was out of stock but would be back in a week. I told him I had a trip coming up, and he made sure I got it in time. He kept his word and went above and beyond, thank you, Eric!
Jaceil Daguison
I don’t recommend Nelson’s for film development. They’re consistently late on their quoted turnaround times, and when you respectfully hold them accountable they get annoyed and hang up on you. I recommend going to Total Photo. We just dropped off 2 rolls of film this week, and not only are they cheaper, they also turnaround photos the next business day as an STANDARD (not paid) offering.
How to reach Nelson Photo & Video
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Website: None
Why Nelson Photo & Video may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at this place with your friends?
Nelson Photo & Video in San Diego offers a unique and inviting space that goes beyond just being a photography store—it's a gathering spot for creativity and connection. With a solid 4.3-star rating based on 359 reviews, this venue has earned the trust and appreciation of a diverse clientele. Friends looking for a memorable meetup spot will appreciate the friendly and knowledgeable staff who create a warm atmosphere that welcomes everyone, from seasoned photographers to amateur enthusiasts. The personalized service, especially from attentive team members like Sayra, ensures every visitor feels supported and inspired. Beyond the excellent customer care, the store's range of services—from camera sales to film development and photo printing—provides fun, interactive activities that engage groups in shared interests. Accessibility is well thought out, with wheelchair access, ample parking including EV charging, and bike parking, inviting everyone to join easily. The combination of creative stimulation, helpful staff, and patient guidance makes Nelson Photo & Video an excellent place to rally with friends, sparking conversations and collaborative exploration into the art of photography.
What activities can you enjoy at Nelson Photo & Video and why is it perfect for a group meetup?
Nelson Photo & Video offers a rich variety of photography-related activities that make it ideal for groups. The core attraction is their wide selection of cameras, lenses, and accessories, including high-end options like Leica and Fujifilm, allowing visitors to explore and compare equipment firsthand. Friends can bond over testing different camera models, sharing advice, and learning about the latest technology. For those interested in nostalgia or classic photography, the film development service adds a tactile, hands-on experience rarely found online, where you can bring old rolls of film and watch them come to life in print. This process can be a fascinating group activity, igniting storytelling and memories. Photographers in the group can collaborate on mini photo shoots using studio equipment available for rent, then print their work in-store with professional-grade quality. These tangible results become instant keepsakes or conversation starters. The venue regularly hosts photography events like Creator Fest, providing additional group-friendly programming focused on learning and creativity, perfect for meetups where the goal is to inspire and grow skills together.
How does Nelson Photo & Video cater to beginners and experienced photographers alike?
One of the standout features of Nelson Photo & Video is its inclusive environment where customers of all skill levels feel comfortable. For beginners, the knowledgeable staff act as personal guides — offering tailored advice on camera selection, photography basics, and technical questions. This supportive approach reduces the intimidation factor common in photography stores and promotes confidence building within the group. Meanwhile, experienced photographers benefit from access to cutting-edge gear, specialty lenses, and studio equipment, enabling serious creative work. The staff’s expertise means even complex questions receive thoughtful answers, facilitating learning and experimentation. This dual focus means your meetup group can include a wide range of experience and still have a fulfilling, enjoyable visit. Whether a few members want to explore new cameras while others dive deeper into film development or studio lighting rental, Nelson Photo & Video has resources to meet everyone’s needs in one welcoming location.
What amenities enhance the group meetup experience at Nelson Photo & Video?
Nelson Photo & Video is designed with thoughtful amenities to ensure a smooth and inviting visit for all guests. The store hours from 10 AM to 6 PM Monday through Saturday (and shorter hours on Sunday) provide ample opportunity for planning group visits during the day or early evening. The venue is wheelchair accessible, with accessible parking and bike parking, making it easy for all friends and family members to join without hassle. Visitors appreciate the convenience of multiple payment options including credit cards and Apple Pay, allowing quick transactions as you browse and make purchases. Private lot parking and EV charging stations add to the comfort and practicality of the location. These practical amenities remove common barriers and allow your group to focus fully on enjoying photography, socializing, and discovering new creative possibilities together in a relaxed setting.
What makes Nelson Photo & Video’s customer service exceptional for group visits?
At the heart of Nelson Photo & Video’s appeal is its outstanding customer service, consistently praised by many reviewers. The staff members are approachable, friendly, and genuinely invested in helping customers have a positive experience. For group meetups, this service translates into an environment where questions are welcomed and personalized assistance goes beyond simple transactions to include demonstrations and detailed explanations. Sayra, specifically mentioned in reviews, epitomizes this level of care by ensuring that visitors understand the processes of film development or camera operation, making complex tasks accessible and enjoyable. This personal attention fosters a sense of community, encouraging groups to stay longer and engage more deeply with photography. Should the group need event advice or support for using studio spaces, the staff are ready to accommodate and facilitate. Such attentive and knowledgeable service turns a routine store visit into an interactive outing that nurtures shared learning and fun.
How does Nelson Photo & Video support creative events and gatherings?
Beyond daily retail and service offerings, Nelson Photo & Video actively supports creative community events that are perfect for group meetups. One example is their Creator Fest—a dedicated event that attracts photography fans for workshops, product demos, and networking activities. These events are ideal for groups who want to learn new skills together or catch up on the latest tech trends in photography and videography. The store’s role as a hub for photography enthusiasts means visitors can connect with like-minded people, making the meetup experience richer and more memorable. Additionally, the availability of studio rentals and professional-grade printing services encourages groups to collaborate on creative projects like photo shoots, portfolio development, or even small exhibitions. The social aspect of meeting others who share a passion for photography blends seamlessly with the hands-on opportunities provided on-site, reinforcing Nelson Photo & Video’s status as more than just a shop—it’s a community center for visual arts.
Why is Nelson Photo & Video especially welcoming to diverse groups?
Nelson Photo & Video stands out for its commitment to accessibility and inclusivity, making it an excellent choice for group meetups that may involve people of differing abilities and backgrounds. The store's wheelchair accessibility and dedicated parking options demonstrate a clear intention to cater to customers with mobility challenges. These features ensure that no one in your group feels excluded or uncomfortable due to physical barriers. Staff training on customer care and the provision of multiple payment methods also contribute to a seamless experience for diverse visitors. Moreover, the location’s welcoming atmosphere means people new to photography or entirely unfamiliar with the equipment are met with patience and encouragement, not judgment. This inclusive environment helps foster a sense of belonging and shared enjoyment, encouraging groups to make Nelson Photo & Video their regular gathering spot where all members feel valued and empowered to participate fully.
What are some unique selling points of Nelson Photo & Video that make it a top choice for meetups?
Several unique features make Nelson Photo & Video a standout venue for hosting meetups with friends or family. First, the combination of high-quality photography equipment sales with in-house film development and photo printing services offers an immersive experience rarely found in typical stores. Visitors can see, try, and learn about cameras, capture moments, then immediately transform those moments into tangible prints, all under one roof. The knowledgeable and passionate staff make this journey seamless and educational, enriching each visit. Additionally, the presence of studio rental equipment encourages creative collaborations that are perfect for group activities like themed photo shoots. The store's accessibility, convenient parking, and extended opening hours provide practical benefits that support easy group logistics. These elements come together to offer a unique blend of shopping, learning, and creative exploration, positioning Nelson Photo & Video as more than just a retail location—it’s a vibrant space for visual storytelling and social connection.
How can Nelson Photo & Video inspire lasting memories for your group?
Visiting Nelson Photo & Video offers more than just practical photography services—it’s an experience that can inspire lasting memories for your group. Engaging together in hands-on activities like testing cameras, developing film, or printing photos creates shared moments of discovery and creativity. The tangible results, such as prints or newly acquired photography gear, serve as mementos that remind your group of the fun and inspiration experienced during the meetup. The supportive environment where questions are met with enthusiasm and assistance encourages individuals to step outside their comfort zones and experiment artistically. This supportive, creative energy helps turn a simple meetup into a memorable event filled with stories, laughter, and new skills gained. For groups passionate about photography or simply looking for a meaningful outing that combines learning, fun, and social bonding, Nelson Photo & Video is a place that delivers experiences worth remembering.