Where to buy?

[ColleenG]

I have decided on an SLR, the Canon Rebel XSi. Costco has a pretty good package deal with 2 lens, gadget bag, SD card and some informational stuff. Is it better to get it at Costco or the local photo shop that has been around since 1977? The photo shop said they would match Costco's deal. The only advantage at this point for me would be the photo shop because they have lay away and will give me the promo price now and keep it at that even if I don't have it paid off by the end date of the promo.

Any thoughts, or does it really matter?

 

[fitzperry]

Personally I'd much prefer to support a local business, and you're likely to get better support from them as well. As long as they are reputable (which seems likely given that they've been in business 30+ years) I'd buy it there, especially since they are willing to match the Costco deal.

Incidentally, Costco used to have an unbelievably generous return policy, which might have been a reason to favor them. I once roller-bladed over my cell phone, and they gave me a full refund But I believe the policy has changed with regard to electronics (cameras included). Might have something to do with the fact they were handing out refunds on things like pulverized cell phones?

 

[oregondaddyof2]

I bought my D60 from Costco last year when they had the same kinda deal on them... As a matter of fact, I think they had both the D60 and the XSi and it was hard for me to choose which one I wanted.... Anyways, after a couple of months my flash stopped working for some reason... I couldn't figure it out, and was very frustrated knowing I was going to have to deal with the store for a return/repair ordeal... I brought it back to Costco and told them it stopped working, and they not only exchanged it for a brand new one without hesitation, but the camera was an additional $50 cheaper, and they gave me the difference back in cash... I love Costco, and so for that reason, i would probably choose them, but if the photo shop is willing to match their price and give you everything you are getting at Costco, I don't think you can make a bad choice...

 

[YesDear]

IF I had a local photo dealer willing to match a Costco deal I would do it with them. While my wife would say I could live at Costco, you ask a lot of great questions and seem very interested in learning. I doubt you will get much photography knowledge from the sales people at Costco. Having a friend at the photo dealer is going to be invaluable in the learning process. They can give you hands on help.

Costco is great, and I usually follow the money, but this seems like a win win to me!

 

[jann1033]

although i have never been to a costco so don't know what i am missing( sil practically lives there as well) i'd support the camera store if only because they will be more able to help you if you need something special or need help later. and if they match the price ,good for them. my local-ish one( ie 1/2 an hr drive) is ok for accessories but their bodies and lenses are just way to high priced but they are willing to order stuff if i can't find it and will look at my camera for free to see what they think is wrong etc. i wish i could support them more but i am usually squeezing out every last cent )

 

[bob100]

I have decided on an SLR, the Canon Rebel XSi. Costco has a pretty good package deal with 2 lens, gadget bag, SD card and some informational stuff. Is it better to get it at Costco or the local photo shop that has been around since 1977? The photo shop said they would match Costco's deal. The only advantage at this point for me would be the photo shop because they have lay away and will give me the promo price now and keep it at that even if I don't have it paid off by the end date of the promo.

Any thoughts, or does it really matter?

I'm a Costco fan but if the local shop will match their price that's good too, be sure to also check reputable online sites like Adorama and B&H