So, by this point you have decided to buy an SLR camera. The question now is which one and where to buy? There are a ton of options out there – major players include Canon, Nikon, Pentax, Olympus, Sony, and others.
You can spend hours researching various tech specs online and in magazines, so I won’t go into an in depth analysis of particular models. But here are some general buying tips to keep money in your pocket and stress out of your life:
1. Do you feel comfortable holding/operating the camera? It’s important to go to your big box retailer or local camera store to actually handle the camera you are interested in. It makes no sense to buy a camera with amazing specs, only to not use it later because you don’t like its ergonomics.
2. Consider the system – The great thing about SLRs is the fact that you can get cool lenses and flashes, and a ton of other things to work with them! Look at the lenses and accessories that the manufacturer offers, and also at the third party stuff that can work with the SLR you are interested in. You’re not buying one camera here - you’re buying a whole system.
3. Buy online. Save money by shopping online at amazon.com, bhphotovideo.com, or adorama.com. I have been very satisfied when ordering through these retailers. Amazon sometimes offers cameras and lenses that are sold by 3rd party dealers, not Amazon itself, so be careful. Resellerratings.com is a good place to research a place you are considering buying from. Personally, I would stick to the three places I have mentioned.
4. Buy used. Buying second hand is a great way to save a lot of money, but as always, be aware of what you are getting into. If you are searching Ebay for deals, make sure that the seller has a good rating. Be certain that all important accessories will be included with the camera. If buying off an internet bulletin board, make sure the user has been an active member of the site (post count and join date are good indicators). While using Craigslist, always meet a person in a public place and try the camera out before exchanging money. KEH.com is a great place to buy used gear online, by the way.
5. Avoid combo deals and kits. These are usually total rip-offs that include low quality filters, cases, flash cards, cleaning tools, and other accessories. Stores make a lot of money off accessories, and you are better off buying the high quality stuff separately.
6. Always use a credit card when possible. This payment method offers a buyer the most protection. Do not send cash, cashier checks, or personal checks unless you are very, very confident about the seller. If the seller accepts PayPal make sure to fund the payment with a credit card and NOT your bank account funds. If the seller for some reason does not deliver your camera, you can perform a “charge back” on your credit card and eventually get your money back. If you fund through a bank account, PayPal will leave you high and dry – good luck on getting your money back. I have had personal experience with this, and believe me USE YOUR CREDIT CARD!
6. If the deal is too good to be true, it usually is.
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