Profotica Reviews 

I am extremely dissatisfied with the way this store conducts business. I don’t understand why they advertise and sell items on Catawiki if they have no intention of actually completing the sale when the final bid doesn’t meet their expectations.

A few days ago, I won and paid for a lens at auction. Before I even made the payment, the seller assured me it was in mint condition and came with a two-year warranty. So I went ahead and completed the purchase through Catawiki.

However, yesterday I was told that after testing, the lens was found to have defects and had been sent for servicing. In theory, that’s possible — but then why is the exact same lens still listed on their own website for double the price I won it for on Catawiki? We all know why: the lens is perfectly fine and was never sent anywhere for repair.

How do I know it’s the same one? Because the photos used in both listings are identical.

It’s disappointing to see a seller using an auction platform, only to back out when the final price doesn’t suit them. And judging by the feedback on Catawiki, this isn’t the first time something like this has happened.

Great guys, true Amsterdammers! Honest, to the point, no bullshit - you can get a great deal, but you do have to negotiate! They have been there forever, I used to live on the same street 35 years ago - they were there then too!

I was in Amsterdam on 24, April, 2026 and lost the hot shoe to my camera. I just happened to stop in Profotica, which had a sign for canon and leica, to see if they had a hot shoe for my camera for purchase. The owner, Ivo, handed me a hot shoe and said "it's a gift". During this short exchange I could tell Ivo was just happy to help a fellow photography enthusiast..Ivo, thank you sir!

Profotica is by far my favourite photo shop in Amsterdam. They treat every client with attention and eager to help, no matter if you buy a simple strap or a full gear. Extremely knowledgeable, with sound advise, I always trust that I’m gonna get the best service. Conveniently located in the very centre, is also super easy to access. I want to thank all the guys there but particularly Michael, who calmly listens to my chaotic rants and patiently offers the best solutions.

This was my first time using them, but they were dishonest and the service was the worst I've ever received from a store. I will never purchase from them again.
This is an unreliable store. Please be careful.

I bought a Practica Super TL2 from them and they were so so helpful and their cameras are in beautiful condition. They made me a very good deal which included a camera lens and the original accessories of the camera. This is a very great store to buy a vintage film camera or digital camera. The camera works perfectly and is in amazing condition. Would highly recommend them!