Foto Faq: Where Should I Buy My Camera?

Best Buy? Craigslist? Amazon? Now that you've determined what kind of a camera you should purchase, the next step is to figure out where you should buy your camera. There are several different options: a local camera shop, mainstream electronic store/department store, online or a local private party and a lot of people are curious as to which vendor is best. Each location has it's pros and cons...I personally prefer to purchase from a reputable online store but I also have purchased a few items off of Craigslist from other photographers. Customer service, price and convenience all play different roles in all of these vendor options...read the list to find out which suits your needs the best.Local Camera Shop

Pros:

• supports a local business
• friendly service with people that actually know what they are talking about
• most local camera stores have a variety of equipment
• take the camera home the same day you make the purchase
• you are purchasing brand new equipment with a manufacturer's warranty
• you have the opportunity to purchase an in-store warranty
• you may have the opportunity to test the camera at the store before buying
• ease with returns (no shipping)

Cons:

• prices may be a little more than on the internet or a big name business
• return policies may vary
• if they don't have the item in stock, you may end up waiting as much as you would if you ordered it online

Mainstream Electronic Store/Department Store

Pros:

• may accept competitive pricing
• there is a good chance of your camera or lens going on sale (especially around Black Friday)
• some stores like Best Buy, have rewards programs where you earn points or can use a coupon towards your purchase
• take the camera home the same day you make the purchase
• you are purchasing brand new equipment with a manufacturer's warranty
• you have the opportunity to purchase an in-store warranty
• you may have the opportunity to test the camera at the store before buying
• you may have the opportunity to test the camera at the store before buying

Cons:

• store workers may not be as familiar with each camera model and features (a lot of them really don't know what they are talking about, unfortunately)
• prices still may not compare to cheaper internet prices
• there is a limited selection in comparison to a local camera shop or what you can find online
• pushy sales people that may be making commission and lead you to a different camera

Examples: Best Buy, Target, Wal-mart, Ritz Camera, Cardinal CameraOnline

Pros:

• huge selection since you can shop multiple stores at once
• prices tend to be the most inexpensive at online websites
• return policies tend to be most lenient since you can't actually hold the camera in person
• some websites partner with Bill Me Later which allows you to make big purchases with 0% interest for (6) months*
• some have camera bundles that include all your needed accessories
• opportunity to buy extended warranty

Cons:

• you pay for shipping (though, most websites offer free standard shipping with big purchases)
• you have to wait for the camera to be delivered
• you can't test out the camera before purchasing

I recommend using Amazon.com, Adorama.com, B&H photo. As for Ebay, I've had friends order off of Ebay with no issue but when it comes to big items, I personally don't feel comfortable making that kind of a purchase online. I've bought a lot of used equipment locally (for the sheer fact that I can actually look at the used gear and assess it) but wouldn't dare buy used gear online unless I knew for a fact it was from a reputable photographer or dealer.Local Private Party

Pro's:

• used equipment generally means cheaper prices
• take the camera home the same day you buy
• sometimes you can buy used equipment that is practically new (the owner may just need quick money or it may be backup equipment a photographer never uses)

Con's:

• it takes time arranging a meeting
• the seller may stand you up/be a no show
• if you don't know much about cameras, you may not be able to assess the correct value of a used camera
• if the deal is too good to be true, it usually is a scam OR if it's legit, many others may also be interested
• no warranty
• you are buying as-is condition
• you don't know the history of the camera or if the owner took good care of it

Examples: Craigslist.com, Bookoo.comLet me just add that my husband and I bought a camera body off another photographer through Craigslist. Upon meeting him, he also threw in a battery grip, additional battery and a top of the line flash (valued at $450!) He was an older man that had a bunch of backup stuff sitting around and so we got an amazing deal! However, I've also dealt with my fair share of flakes that I've arranged meetings with and they never showed up. It's hit or miss but if you do decide to purchase used equipment through a private party dealer, make sure you get the manufacturer's code/number so you can look up the date the camera was made and/or ask for the shutter count so you know how much life the camera has on it left. Be sure to check for scratches, ask if the equipment has ever been dropped, and most importantly, get a bill of sale.What experiences have you had with camera purchases? Is there another store you recommend? Have you had any bad Craigslist experiences?