Help Seawood Photo Recover from Devastating Theft

Unfortunately, what felt like the inevitable has happened. If you are a member of our cherished Bay Area photography community, or have been following the stories of the multiple Bay Area camera stores that have been recently burglarized you know what we mean...

Seawood was broken into and robbed, and we need your help.

Seawood Photo has been a meeting point, educational hub, museum, retail store, and a steward of the history and art of photography since 1947. Almost daily, someone walks in, marveling that a place like Seawood still exists. New photographers find their first cameras here and learn to use them. Lifelong photographers share stories of their first cameras and experiences. Professionals, hobbyists, artists, journalists, dreamers, families of generational photographers, and everyone in between pass through our doors. Let's not forget our shop cat Flash's fan club that come in just for her.

On Monday, March 31st at 2:34 AM, thieves tried multiple times to gain entry into the store, finally driving a car through our front window and ransacking the premises. We are estimating they stole 40-50 thousand dollars of equipment and left behind 10 thousand dollars in repair costs. This comes at a terrible time with a slow start and uncertain year. And just last week, we learned our failed HVAC system will need a total replacement. We are not alone in this, as we are just the most recent victim of a string of these attacks. Our hearts go out to the other businesses that have had to contend with this as well.

While cleaning broken glass and cameras, neighbors, concerned citizens, and nearby high school students stopped by, asking what happened. They expressed love for our store and concern for Flash, the shop cat (she's shaken but fine; she was found hiding and consoled with treats). Many are asking how they can help. That's why we're here.

At this time, any support makes a difference. Stop by to say hi, visit Flash, buy a roll of film or a gift card for your favorite photographer, and if you can and feel compelled, please donate.

We know we're not alone; we couldn't and wouldn't want to do this without our community both near and far. Rest assured, we'll do everything possible to keep this special place alive and well for future generations. Our doors remain open for all of you.

Sincerely,

The Seawood Photo Team