Where to purchase first camera and warranty questions
Nov 12, 2013 21:08:21 #
K_Karen
Loc: New Jersey
Hello. I want to thank everyone that contributes to this site. There is so much wonderful information! I am looking to purchase my first digital SLR camera and, after researching my options, I am seriously considering the Nikon D3200 with the 18-55 mm lens. I think I talked my husband into purchasing it for me for Christmas and I would like to take advantage of Black Friday or Cyber Monday deals. I have been tracking the price and there are a few websites pricing the camera at $499. Does anyone have any thoughts on the best way to choose a seller? Also, should I consider purchasing a warranty? Thank you in advance for your input! -Karen
Nov 12, 2013 21:15:01 #
Hello, K_Karen. There are many fine vendors but I have used B&H Photovideo in NYC for many years and have had an excellent overall experience with them. They are at bhphotovideo.com. I particularly appreciate the wealth of information on their site and the fact that they do NOT censor negative customer comments about equipment. I hope this is helpful for you.
Nov 12, 2013 21:23:58 #
As Sunwriter said B & H is good. So are Cameta Camera & Adorama. Best Buy will have a Canon & Nikon on sale Black Friday as well. if you time it right you might be able to get a 5 year warranty thru Nikon if they decide to do it again this year like they did on the D3000 last year.
Nov 12, 2013 21:32:03 #
The vendors already mentioned so far are trustworthy. The D3200 is a great entry level DSLR.
Nov 12, 2013 21:33:25 #
Nov 12, 2013 21:34:44 #
Wabbit
Loc: Arizona Desert
K_Karen wrote:
Hello. I want to thank everyone that contributes ... (show quote)
Hey Doc ..... B&H Camera ..... you can't go wrong
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/856058-REG/Nikon_25496_D3200_DSLR_Camera_With.html
Nov 12, 2013 21:47:06 #
Welcome to the forum, Karen.
Good camera and lens choice.
Nikon controls pricing from authorized dealers. If you find a real bargain on price, there's probably a problem.
As mentioned, B&H, also Adorama, Cameta, Amazon, even WalMart will have similar pricing. Couple of things to look at, what do they include in the package (B & H currently offers a free SD card with purchase)? What's their return policy (that's why I mention WalMart)?
Good camera and lens choice.
Nikon controls pricing from authorized dealers. If you find a real bargain on price, there's probably a problem.
As mentioned, B&H, also Adorama, Cameta, Amazon, even WalMart will have similar pricing. Couple of things to look at, what do they include in the package (B & H currently offers a free SD card with purchase)? What's their return policy (that's why I mention WalMart)?
Nov 12, 2013 21:49:50 #
OddJobber makes a very important point. Beware of "great prices." They might bring you great grief instead. Best to find a dealer with a good rep and then stick with them.
Nov 12, 2013 22:07:38 #
As long as you purchase through a reputable dealer there are warranty's you get through either Nikon or Canon. If you want to purchase an extra warranty through the place that you buy it from that is completely up to you. I would imagine that each place has their own kind of warranty to sell you and it would cover different things so you would have to check out the stores for that.
Nov 12, 2013 22:11:29 #
p.s. - "In Hiding" is OK when you start, but no one here will stalk you and you won't get any spam from here. We're assuming you're in the States, right?
Nov 12, 2013 22:31:08 #
The D3200 is a great first DLSR option. Only buy from an "authorized" Nikon dealer. There will likely be some great buying options on Black Friday from many of the sellers already mentioned.
I am a fan of extended warranties. All it takes is one drop to kill a camera, which under most extended plans would be replaced.
I am a fan of extended warranties. All it takes is one drop to kill a camera, which under most extended plans would be replaced.
Nov 12, 2013 22:45:51 #
olcoach
Loc: Oregon
Welcome toUHH Karen. I don't know about your camera as I shoot canon's but the vendors mentioned are good. Be careful of deals that sound too good as there are some bad folks out there selling photo stuff. I deal with B&H, Adorama and KEH as I know if something isn't right they will take care of the problem. Have fun and keep shootin'. Mike
Nov 12, 2013 22:52:09 #
Hi Karen. Welcome to the Hog. As stated the D3200 is a great starter camera. I've done business with both B & H and Cameta. Both are reputable and a good choice.
Nov 13, 2013 01:15:12 #
Nov 13, 2013 06:28:02 #
Since all authorized dealers will probably offer the same price, also consider supporting your local independent "brick-and-mortar" camera store (if you have one). They also often have staff that are encyclopedias of information, offer educational workshops, and can be available for drop-in Q&A's. On the other hand - since all authorized dealers will sell at the MSRP, consider other things, like what benefits are offered - B&H offers a 4% credit towards future purchases. And for now, ordering from out-of-state online avoids sales tax.
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