Dodd Camera

The folks here helped me out off a desperate situation on a tight timeline, for which I am eternally grateful. It’s a big store with good opportunities to get a hands-​on feel for equipment purchases. They have a rental program that offers a steal-​of-​a-​deal on weekend rentals on Saturdays, 50% off morning of (assuming the lens you want is on hand). Conveniently located just outside the main downtown area, it’s easy to get to on Prospect, and has ample off-​street parking so that you don’t have to worry about the meter.

Looking for camera gear. Dreaming about my new lens. They sell used as well as have new equipment ready for you to buy.

What an insane customer service turn around since the last time I came in. Normally I stick with their smaller locations around town and skip the flagship store for that reason – not enough staff to service the guests sufficiently.
I really don’t think the problem is snotty attitude or bad customer service, rather there aren’t enough people there to help all the folks who come in with questions. Chances are, if you’re stopping by Dodd for equipment, you’re going to ask some questions and need some advice. This industry requires a lot of customer service, so Dodd needs to step up the staff.
Contrary to my past experience and other Unilocalers’ reviews, I just came back from one of the best customer experiences I’ve had in a while. Mike, an employee since 2005 and owner of a photography business, helped both my friend and I find just what we were looking for. He took us newbs through tripod 101, lighting, reflectors and refurbished lenses. We took up about an hour of his time and his knowledge was much appreciated. The advice he gave us was priceless and he was just as nice as could be. To whoever owns this place, Mike needs a promotion AND needs to train other Dodd employees how to really help folks.
The prices are high-​ish, but not by much. Sure, you can find cheap alternatives online, but it’s a local company and I don’t mind paying extra for the guidance, service and advice I got there today.
I took home a refurbished lens after all that, with no pressure from Mike to buy the other things we looked at for an hour. I also know when he works now, so I can expect that kind of service whenever I stop by.

Dayton, Ohio Branch
I had a photography business several years ago. Since, I got out of the business but still frequented Dodd Camera (formally Click Camera). A few months ago I took my Nikon D3s to Dodd for cleaning. It was a new D3s with nothing wrong with it but I wanted to get it cleaned out prior to my trip through Europe.
When I got my camera returned, the view finder was full of filth. Since it was not on my mirrors, I took the camera to Europe since I was leaving the next day.
Now every time I look into my viewfinder, I remember the $ 100 that I spent to have this «cleaned» and will never go back again for photography cleaning or equipment.

My wife bought me a tripod online from Shopatron, which ended up being an internet sales vehicle for Dodd Camera. Unfortunately, she purchased the wrong model. Mark and Matthew at Dodd really displayed amazing customer service in helping me fix the problem. They found the model I wanted (which by the way had been discontinued) and made arrangements to have it shipped from Manfrotto in Italy to their Chicago location where I could pick it up and not pay the double shipping costs of the new item and returning the old one. Given the logistics, the exchange took a few weeks. I followed up on the order at least 3 times and every time I called, someone at Dodd researched my order status and ALWAYS called me back the same day with an update. I was able to make a very painless exchange only miles from my house thanks to these guys. Given the fact that my order had already been paid for, they could have been much less helpful. Not the case… their customer service was an A++++++!

While not the cheapest place around it remains an excellent local place for equipment and most importantly knowledge. Since it is Cleveland’s oldest and largest photo equipment store it has a place for area shooters to shop and exchange information. The store also conducts seminars from time to time well worth making time to attend.

This place is old and lame. Not only was I served last even though I got there before the pretty blonde (racist anyone??), but I would advise everyone to steer clear of this place.
I asked to purchase a Canon battery and the owner — I am assuming it was the owner because he was old with a rolex — gave me an off-​brand one. I told him I wanted a Canon OEM battery and he gave me this attitude and said, «Canon is NOT in the battery business!»
Well — neither is a cheaper off-​brand one.
If I want to buy a Canon OEM and pay more money then let me!!!
OH — and btw — since I use to work in electronic distribution, I know that the off-​brand battery had more margin. Thanks, but no thanks Dodd.

I agree that the people working at Dodd have something that can come across as snotty. But that’s just with some of the employees, but they are there for a reason, they know their stuff.
I use the online option to get my images printed which is so helpful and easy. I just upload my images from my own computer and *ta daaaa! Two days later I have images ready and archival quality.
I like that everyone seems to be knowledgeable of photography from all angles. I admit it can come across as intimidating but I know that what I get will be high quality. I used to work a photo places and the difference here is highly noticable. If you want things right… go here.

Attitude and high prices…
THE UP – SIDE: A decent selection of photography gear. It’s nice to be able to hold it in your hand and check it out (before you buy on-​line!)
THE DOWN-​SIDE: The people here are a little too full of themselves for me, and the prices seem a little high. In the old days, before digital photography and the Internet, there really was a place for shops like Dodd’s. However, you can find far better prices and a better selection at quality Internet sites like B&H Photography. You can also get higher quality prints at a fraction of the cost at Costco.
THE SUM-​IT-​UP: Dodd’s is ok, but their superior attitude is unjustified. I’ll stay far away from Dodd’s and continue to do my shopping online.