BetterPhoto Q&A
Category: New Answers

Photography Question 

Andrew Laverghetta
 

Ordering a Digital SLR...By Phone


Hi all. I've convinced my parents to consider buying a digital camera for me for Christmas and right now they are more seriously considering the Canon Digital Rebel. I tried it out in the camera store and I loved how it felt and everything. The salesperson also mentioned (but didn't stress buying) the 10D. As of right now, I definily like the idea of the 10D better mostly because of the construction. I have heard of somebody actually dropping their 10D and it was fine but the DRebel probably wouldn't have survived it well because of the plastic construction. Also, the faster frames per second appeals to me since I have used my camera and sporting events and want to be able to get "the moment" as best as I can. I heard about it being more resistant to weather than the DRebel. Wouldn't it be better to spend more money on the 10D if I can so I wouldn't just waste time and money eventually using the DRebel as a step-up to something like the 10D?
The situation that I'm in is definitly one that can be constricted by money at this point as I am not the one buying the camera but my parents. I have seen that many places advertise the DRebel for $999 or $899 without the lens. Also, in some magazines I have seen that Broadway Photo in Brooklyn is currently selling the camera without the lens for $629.99. Is this a fair deal? I have noticed in an earlier issue of the magazine that the prices were up around 900 and 1000. I also noticed that the 10D was on sale for $1049.99. That definitly appears appealing but has anybody had any experience with ordering from Broadway Photo before? Thanks to all who reply!


To love this question, log in above
October 13, 2004

 

Andrew Laverghetta
  From Andrew:

I also wanted to add that I do things or would like to get into things like portraits, sports, macro and landscapes. I definitly like portraits the most so far. I've gotten a few lights and 250W bulbs for a hotlight setup so I can get started with my 35mm Rebel GII before Christmas comes.


To love this comment, log in above
October 13, 2004

 

Jon Close
  Re Broadway Photo, see http://www.resellerratings.com/seller1995.html. I personally would not buy from any retailer rated lower than the average, and prefer B&H Photo(http://www.resellerratings.com/seller1914.html).

Beware "bait and switch" tactics. If the price is too good to be true, you're right. A common tactic used by retailers advertising a super low price is the price includes the camera body only, without the warranty, manuals, editing software, battery and charger that the manufacturer includes with it. Then they try to sell you these needed items separately at inflated prices.


To love this comment, log in above
October 14, 2004

 

Mellanie
  Hey Andrew, I actually bought my digital rebel from Broadway Photo....They advertised one price, I ordered on line, and had to call (or they call you) to confirm order. I asked about battery, etc...They said that didn't come with it, but I could buy one for $99. I passed on that because I know you can get them cheaper! So then he said, 'Do you want the USA or imported camera' No US canon warranty with the imported! So to get the camera it was $150 more than they advertised. I got the one with the lens and paid $850, but he had knocked $50 off since I was a repeat customer (had no problems with them the first time around except having to confirm order). So with a lens, it's about $900 from Broadway. B&H has it for about the same...I actually think they are cheaper than that now. So...if you don't want the hassle go with B&H. They are professional, courteous, and ship that day most of the time. Good Luck!


To love this comment, log in above
October 15, 2004

 

Andrew Laverghetta
  From Andrew:

Yeah, I don't need to worry about the lens because I already have two from my other canon 35mm. I guess I'd need a battery and charger for $60 somewhere I think is the lower price right? I've got a neckstrap. I might need some kind of software that I expect to be with it for the USB but I have photoshop 7.0 so I don't need that. Can't you get manuals from online somewhere? That or I could fiddle around like I have with everything else. I guess a warranty is a good thing but I've never used it on anything else. Oh well, if I get it for Christmas they'll probably end up buying it from a local camera shop. Thanks!


To love this comment, log in above
October 15, 2004

 

Bill OKeefe
  Hey Andrew:
I am a new Digital SLR buyer and looked all around. I purchased a Nikon D-70 with Nikon lenes Nikon Flash etc. from Cameta Camera in NY over the phone. They were great to buy from the price was very good, the help was great (not pushy- no up selling). They are a Nikon dealer and only sell USA camera's with full factory warranties. The camera came with 1 lens-battery charger all papers etc. I order the camera on a Tuesday late in the day- they told me it would ship Thursday and I should have it Friday. Thursday morning rec'd e-mail confirming it was shipped with the UPS tracking # & Friday afternoon UPS showed up with the entire package. They also sell Cannon and several other brands as well. I priced it all out on their web site before I called and when I called to purchase it the price was the same to the penny. Cameta Camera is great company to buy from.
Bill


To love this comment, log in above
October 18, 2004

 
This old forum is now archived. Use improved Forum here

Report this Thread