Where to Buy Photography Equipment
The Internet provides countless outlets for buying photography equipment. Here are my recommendations on where to buy your next camera, lens, or other photo gear.
B&H Photo
They are the most well-known and trusted name in photography equipment sales. Prepare to be amazed by their astounding assortment of products. If B&H doesn’t sell it, you probably don’t need it. Orders are prepared for shipment quickly and arrive well packaged.
Amazon.com
There is no place I’d rather shop online than Amazon.com, and that holds true for photography equipment. While they don’t have quite the equipment selection of B&H, their inventory is impressive nonetheless. When contemplating a new photography purchase, I check Amazon first and then go elsewhere if they don’t have it. Why? Price and shipping. Amazon’s prices often are the best and a tad lower than B&H. But, as I wrote earlier, the clincher is Amazon Prime. Shipping is free and my shiny new purchase arrives two days later.
Adorama Camera
Like B&H, Adorama is based out of New York and features an enormous catalog. Their prices are usually identical to B&H, but sometimes they’ll have specific items on special sale. It’s also a great resource if B&H or your favorite store is out of stock.
Craigslist
I’ve found Craigslist to be an excellent resource both for buying and selling used photography equipment. Just be careful. Do your homework and make sure to test any equipment thoroughly before handing over your money.
I’m much more likely to buy a used lens on Craigslist than a camera body. Lenses are made to last a long time and hold their value well. I’ve actually been able to sell lenses for more than I paid for them because or rising equipment prices. Camera bodies, on the other hand, become obsolete and lose their value more quickly. If you decide to buy a used camera body, make sure you’re getting a bargain. Otherwise, the risk isn’t worth it and you’re better off buying new and getting the 1 year warranty and peace of mind.
Other Options
There are many other reputable places to purchase photography equipment, including local establishments. Some additional online stores that come to mind are: J&R, Buy.com, Ritz Camera, and Calumet Photographic.
With patience and research, you’ll find exactly the photo equipment you’re looking for. Buy only from reputable dealers and avoid lesser known sites because the deals they’re offering may be too good to be true.
If you have any questions or would like help selecting what to buy, feel free to contact me. If you’re curious what gear I recommend, read about my photography equipment. Happy shopping!
Helen Oster
Thanks so much for your recommendation for shopping at Adorama Camera.
We have been working exceptionally hard to ensure complete customer satisfaction across every area of our service, as the customer feedback at resellerratings shows:
http://www.resellerratings.com/store/Adorama
Not quite yet a ‘perfect 10′ but headed in the right direction.
If you ever need advice or after-sales support with any order from Adorama Camera, I’m only ever an email away: [email protected]
Helen Oster
Adorama Camera Customer Service Ambassador
photography enthusiast
I’ve used Ebay, Amazon and B&H so far and didn’t have any issues with any of them, although I was impressed at B&H for their selection, prices and fast shipping. Haven’t used Adorama yet, but I’ve only heard great things about them.