Thanks everyone for all the great information. Will pass it along. Wish I had a camera store nearby but the closest one is over 200 miles away so I trust BandH for all my photo equipment. My friend in VA wants a place he can go to for help if needed.
Another good one is Allen's Camera in Levittown PA
I live in the greater DC area and fully agree that both Ace and District Photo are well run, reliable stores. I would not hesitate to buy from them. If you live anywhere close and are looking for a well stocked, old fashioned photography store, I highly recommend both of them.
I agree with Norm, about supporting local. However, here in Southern Oregon my closest ‘local’ is 145 miles north. So my best way to support them is to do my “scratch n sniff” at Best Buy, Costco, or wherever, then call them and order over phone. This has worked well for me so far, and I intend to visit next month when I upgrade to a FF Sony.
cjc2
Loc: Hellertown PA
I am a B&H fan and I use a few others who are of similar caliber like Adorama and Roberts. My preferred dealer is local (sort of), Allen's Camera in Levittown, just outside of Phila. Best of luck.
NormanTheGr8 wrote:
Why not support local , with Nikon,Canon and everyone else setting the price ,there is no $$ advantage .
Nothing beats holding it in your hands ,seeing how it feels, and supporting a local business
No shit? All you need is a local camera store. Which we haven't had for 20 years. I'd have to drive an hour to pick up a camera.
I have been dealing with B&H since 1972. The only time I deal elsewhere is with Best Buy if they have something in stock that I need. If you buy from Amazon they have a number of dealers but you don't get the service you get from B&H.
That's how they do it. The camera store "blue book" is the harsh reality. They have to sell it, give a warranty, deal with buyers remorse, take a credit card, etc. AND make a profit. It may sit, at their expense, for weeks or more unsold.
Go look at "SOLD" cameras of your exact type via the eBay advanced search. That will give you a pretty good idea of the current market value.
B & H, used them for years and never had a problem.
Mikeazz
Loc: I live in Northport, NY
Hunt's is very reputable and is the largest ( I believe) camera retailer in New England.
Camera Land, in Bethpage, Long Island, is also very good, and very helpful. Good inventory, prices, and they give a lot of free classes, offer a free photo challenge and critique, programs. They've been around since the late 50's. Originally was in NYC, and then moved to Long Island, several years ago.
Hope this helps.
Even in smaller and mid-sized towns, the local camera store is sadly GONE.
d56flash wrote:
Wish I had a camera store nearby but the closest one is over 200 miles away so I trust BandH for all my photo equipment.
KeEdNel wrote:
I have been dealing with B&H since 1972.
Micdaro wrote:
B & H, used them for years and never had a problem.
Thank you. Very gratifying.
d56flash wrote:
Though I prefer BandH for my camera needs, a friend asked me to check out the following camera dealers. What better place then here? Has anyone had any experience or knowledge of these stores: Ace Photo, Ashburn, VA, McClanahan Photo, Warrenton, VA, or Tri State Camera, Brooklyn, NY? Thanks for any help you can give.
I second what Gene says about Tri-State. Stay away from them. Same with Abe's of Maine. Both use bait and switch tactics, remove items that are normally included with the camera, sell grey market gear, etc.
I don't know anything about the other vendors you mentioned. Besides B&H and Adorama, there is Cameta Camera, Hunt's Photo, Robert's, and Allen's Camera in PA. Other Hogs may know others that are reputable as well. There is also UHH user MT Shooter who owns Carter's Camera Cottage in Montana.
sbohne wrote:
No shit? All you need is a local camera store. Which we haven't had for 20 years. I'd have to drive an hour to pick up a camera.
Registered snivel? LOL
I'd drive 2 hours one way for good reliable service, and do! Anywhere in Los Angeles is now a 2 hour drive!
I use B&H, Adorama, but usually use Samy's Camera in Pasadena (Jason) as they meet any B&H or others prices no question.
d56flash wrote:
Though I prefer BandH for my camera needs, a friend asked me to check out the following camera dealers. What better place then here? Has anyone had any experience or knowledge of these stores: Ace Photo, Ashburn, VA, McClanahan Photo, Warrenton, VA, or Tri State Camera, Brooklyn, NY? Thanks for any help you can give.
Ace Photo is top notch. Great inventory, service and knowledgeable staff. They often have dealer reps from the major camera makers in the store. About twice a year they have store-wide sales. I’m fortunate to live close and it’s my go to store and I have never been disappointed. Follow their Facebook page for the latest.
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