Buying something has become so easy, you just open Amazon, read a few reviews, then click “Buy it Now.” You can get practically anything from them now, I think that they even sell books. Making major purchases online is so common place that folks are buying cars and even homes off websites. That being said, let me tell why I decided to purchase my newest camera from our local photography store, ASAP Photo and Camera. In fact, not only did I buy my new D850 from them, I have bought ALL of my camera gear from them, going back as far as the days of film.
Besides the obvious reasons of supporting the local economy, the biggest reason that I return time and time again to ASAP is for their knowledge. Everyone that works there loves this art form as much, or more, than their customers. Not only do they know their stuff about the gear, but over the years they have gotten to know me. They know what I like to shoot, where I shoot, and have more than once steered me away from an item towards something that is better suited to ME and my needs. In fact, on a couple of occasions, they have convinced me to buy less expensive items than I had intended to purchase. Don’t get me wrong, I still read my fair share of online reviews and watch way too many Youtube videos, but I never forget the fact that the people writing those reviews and posting those videos may or may not be an expert.
Although it used to be cheaper to buy camera equipment from the major suppliers like Abe’s, Adorama, and B&H, that is no longer the case. It is true that sales tax will be applied, but in most cases that is offset by the savings on shipping cost. This is especially true if you are one of the unfortunate few that gets a defective item, you just return it to the store and get a new one. So much simpler than shipping it back to some warehouse, hoping for a quick turnaround.
If you are thinking of buying someone a camera or related gear for Christmas (or buying for yourself), please check out my fiends at ASAP Photo and Camera (www.asapphoto.com/) , or your locally owned camera store (if you are fortunate enough to still have one!)
