Why you should buy your equipment from an independent camera shop.
This is the era of the internet; everything is bought and sold online, cutting out the middle man. I’ve watched this trend grow and I decided I wanted to write a piece outlining the benefits of walking into an independent camera shop, conversing with a real human being and having actual human interaction.
First and foremost, the owner of an independent camera shop can give you expert advice. You ask a question, you get an answer. You’ll benefit from the wisdom of photography experts who really know their stuff and are impartial. If you tell them your specific needs they’ll find the right camera equipment tailored to you and to what you’re trying to achieve.
“This sort of advice and guidance is gold.”
You will find that independent retailers are shrines to customer service. They’re not bland or the faceless internet, which can get a bit depressing after a while. These individuals have respect for the goods on sale, for the people who made them, and for photography – past, present and future. It’s refreshing to have someone show an interest in what you’re doing and help you find the right lens or filter.
“Price”
We assume that you get a better price online, but these days price is comparable between the online shops and the independent camera store. The majority of independents will have an online presence, and if their prices are marginally better online, then you can at least try the product instore, and you can be happy in the knowledge that you’re buying from the person who has given you good advice. A lot of independent shops will offer price matching, however, I’d say it’s worth spending a few quid more to go independent.
“Where ?”
Buying from an independent camera store, gives you a different experience altogether. There might be events held in the shop that could be useful and informative, and hands-on demonstrations of the newest equipment.
I am not affiliated to any particular independent camera shop, but I have received excellent service from the following shops, don’t forget to tell them I sent you.