Let's endorse our Local Camera Store!
Mar 11, 2018 10:16:11 #
It's about an hour from me, but I like ProCam in Livonia, MI. Good service, worth the drive.
Mar 11, 2018 11:01:01 #
My local store was a father & son shop that was part of a six store mini mall, they lost their shop along with two other shops in a fire some years ago.
Mar 11, 2018 11:26:59 #
Picture Taker
Loc: Michigan Thumb
I travel about 2 hrs to the "Local" store. I think nit is worth my time to help them out. I will not buy a car without a test drive and I won't buy camera equipment with out the "feel" of it. The camera is in my hand for hours at a time and it has to be comfortable.
Mar 11, 2018 11:48:15 #
Mar 11, 2018 12:12:51 #
Pro Photo Supply, Portland, Oregon. Only in business 35 years, but they have a huge inventory for all aspects of photography, rental dept, used sales, photo lab, etc., also frequent demos, events and contests. The staff actually know what they're doing. I love being able to try equipment hands on. Best of all, when I go in for a $10 wrist strap they give me the same attention as when I buy a $3K body. 
Mar 11, 2018 12:36:32 #
mizzee
Loc: Boston,Ma
Hunt's Photo and Video in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine, Hartford, CT. They offer great service, broad selection and competitive prices; plus, they offer an extensive list of photowalks, workshops, and photo excursions (multi-day and international). They are an excellent resource and won't blow smoke up your whatever when you're buying gear and ask for advice. Can't ask for much more than that!
Mar 11, 2018 14:33:54 #
Never had much luck at Schillers or Creve Couer for that matter. Both stores have just left me cold and inspired me to shop online for my needs. CC's expos can be okay if you attend, Schiller's I have given several tries over the years and pretty much get a cold shoulder from the staff or screwed in pricing on their "special" developing deals. If they work for you or others that's great, but I don't see the need to set foot in their door.
Mar 11, 2018 15:06:13 #
CarolinaLiz wrote:
Take a look at this from our only independent camera store in Wilmington NC. Heartbreaking.
https://www.facebook.com/SoutheasternCamera/posts/1696591280379851
https://www.facebook.com/SoutheasternCamera/posts/1696591280379851
Our town is not large enough to support a Camera Store. That is why shop on the net. There is Walmart and Target which would be to much competition. :-(((((
Mar 11, 2018 21:36:59 #
I just looked up prices on a Canon 5D Mk IV on the websites of our two local camera stores.
One recently moved into a brand new, contemporary store, and when I've been in the store, was completely ignored until I found what I wanted and took it to the register to check out. They have a fair number of accessories but I believe they often have to order whatever body or lens you would like to purchase, very little is actually on display. Their price on the body only: $3499 (plus tax, of course)
The other did speak to me when I was there and gave me some decent advice, but the place is so overcrowded I could never find anything on my own. I looked at their website before buying a PIXMA printer but it was a couple of hundred more than I could get it online. Their price for the 5D IV: $3299 plus tax.
Canon's price from the website: $3299.
I'd love to support these local guys but they have to meet me halfway...I need either some competent, friendly assistance while I'm there or a decent price (or God forbid, both!)
One recently moved into a brand new, contemporary store, and when I've been in the store, was completely ignored until I found what I wanted and took it to the register to check out. They have a fair number of accessories but I believe they often have to order whatever body or lens you would like to purchase, very little is actually on display. Their price on the body only: $3499 (plus tax, of course)
The other did speak to me when I was there and gave me some decent advice, but the place is so overcrowded I could never find anything on my own. I looked at their website before buying a PIXMA printer but it was a couple of hundred more than I could get it online. Their price for the 5D IV: $3299 plus tax.
Canon's price from the website: $3299.
I'd love to support these local guys but they have to meet me halfway...I need either some competent, friendly assistance while I'm there or a decent price (or God forbid, both!)
Mar 11, 2018 21:37:46 #
Southeastern Camera in Raleigh, NC is alive and well! Great selection of both new and used equipment, fair prices and trade-ins and a professional and friendly staff - highly recommended if you’re in the area.
Mar 11, 2018 22:12:36 #
OddJobber wrote:
Pro Photo Supply, Portland, Oregon. Only in business 35 years, but they have a huge inventory for all aspects of photography, rental dept, used sales, photo lab, etc., also frequent demos, events and contests. The staff actually know what they're doing. I love being able to try equipment hands on. Best of all, when I go in for a $10 wrist strap they give me the same attention as when I buy a $3K body.
Another vote for Pro Photo Supply. They will also special order stuff. I’ve purchased new and used without issues. They also consign used gear holding it the required time to check theft reports. Of course, if you bought it there, it can hit the shelves immediately.
Mar 12, 2018 05:38:30 #
Mar 12, 2018 06:01:48 #
Procam in Aurora Illinois. A very knowledgeable staff. Full service in house printing, classes, repair. Plus they carry everything you want.
Mar 12, 2018 06:16:04 #
elliott937 wrote:
There are, without a doubt, excellent camera store... (show quote)
I do all my business with Campus Camera in Kent Ohio. Always been treated well and they have a very knowledgeable staff.
Mar 12, 2018 06:17:37 #
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