I buy off the internet for the most part. When you really need to see it and hold it before deciding to buy it, an in-person experience cannot be beat by a doubleclick and a thumbnail picture. That was the case with a camera bag decision I faced. These guys were the only ones in town to have both bags I was considering. They were patient and thoughtful as we discussed which would be best for my needs. After I made my conclusion, sure I could have walked out and bought on the net, but that wouldn't have been fair to Fireside. Besides, their prices were cheeper than other SF storefronts and only a few bucks more expensive that the best price I could have found online -- I'd much rather do my part to keep a quality local business going.
Pros: Walking distance, friendly, fair
Cons: Medium-sized shop cannot hold every piece of equipment you might need
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