As part of Wildfire Preparedness Month, Canon USA has ramped up recovery efforts in southern California, offering direct support to local communities hit by recent wildfires. In partnership with Samy’s Camera, the Los Angeles Times and UCLA’s School of Theater, Film and Television, the imaging giant has rolled out a series of hands-on initiatives including free family portraits, discounted repair services, and camera gear donations.
The campaign kicked off in March with a recovery event hosted at Samy’s Camera in Pasadena, aimed at residents affected by the Eaton Fire. Canon technicians serviced more than 100 Canon cameras and lenses, while families received complimentary portraits and discounted printing. Canon’s US President and CEO, Sammy Kobayashi, visited the site to meet local photographers and assess the community’s needs first-hand.
Canon also extended technical support to photojournalists covering the aftermath. In February, Canon specialists serviced over 100 pieces of gear at the Los Angeles Times, including heavily used equipment from wildfire zones. Staff were also trained in Canon’s Camera Connect App, enabling faster, safer workflows in the field.
Beyond repairs, Canon is investing in the future of storytelling. At UCLA, students have been given access to high-end Canon cameras to document post-wildfire recovery—an initiative designed to empower the next generation of filmmakers.
In a broader show of support, the Canon Group recently donated $1 million to the American Red Cross to assist those affected by wildfires across the region.
“Our efforts are about more than just equipment,” said Mason Olds, EVP of Canon USA. “We’re helping people reclaim their stories and rebuild their lives.”
Canon’s ongoing recovery efforts continue throughout May and reflect the company’s Kyosei philosophy—working together for the common good.
