I am sure everyone is aware by now, but Circuit City is going out of business in the US. Normally, saving a few percent on camera gear at the retail level doesn't really force the avid shooters and professionals to stir that much, but with the closings and heavy discounts currently available, now is a great time to look at improving your equipment set while saving some coin.
Depending on your market, obviously, availability and pricing will differ, but here in central Alabama, there are some very strong deals for those looking to upgrade or add to their gear. Usually I recommend a major online distributor like B&H Photo or Adorama, but some of the prices at Circuit City now equal to or lower than those from these companies.
For example, B&H sells the Nikon D80 (our store does not have the D90) with the 18-135mm lens for $730. Today, Circuit City's price in Montgomery was $720. Taxes and shipping will just about cancel out, making the retail find a good deal. Prices will continue to fall on remaining stock so check your local stores to determine if a deal is nearby. Flashes and lenses here are now about equal to the B&H price or hovering just north of it, but if stock remains available over the coming week, expect further price reductions.
Point-and-shoot cameras are also a good deal right now, including those aimed at a higher level of shooter like the Canon G10 and the Nikon P6000. Both are now $100 off regular retail. That puts the Canon at about only $10 under the online price, but puts the Nikon between $50-100 lower (B&H is offering an instant rebate of $50 on it). All accessories here are 20-30% off so if you need some UV filters, small bags, rechargeable batteries and the like, they are also had at great prices. Beware of the memory card prices though, B&H and Adorama usually have these at the very best deals around - unless you need them immediately.
Be careful and make sure you're still getting a deal though. Not all cameras are less expensive just because they are marked down. Take your iPhone and check the prices against reputable online vendors like those listed above. Also, you should consider, that during this liquidation 'All Sales Are Final.' If you have any reservation about this, you should hold off and acquire your equipment from a source we expect to be around a bit longer.
Until next time, happy shooting and money saving.
- R
I bought a D60 about 8 weeks ago from a closing Circuit City here in Phoenix. I LOVE IT, and I am still learning how to use it well.
ReplyDeleteIs there a recommendation that you'd have for what my first add-on purchase should be? A lens or external flash maybe?
That would mostly depend on what you're shooting and how often. I assume you purchased the kit with an 18-55mm lens. Then next lens choice for most shooters would be the 55-200mm VR. It's not too expensive and works very well. A good flash choice would be the SB-600. Its fairly powerful and versatile and won't break the bank. You really can't go wrong with either choice. Since flash is often a little tougher to get the hang of - even though these new cameras and speedlights are incredibly intelligent - and because most people want the versatility of more focal length, I'd say picking up a good telephoto is a good choice. After all, you have a built in flash, but you don't have more lens reach. Even though the flash is direct only and not as powerful, you still have an option there if needed. I have a D40 as a backup and love it. I'm going to upgrade it eventually to probably a D90 so I can use my non-AFS lenses, but it is stellar for the money. Best of luck!
ReplyDeleteHey Ryan! Loving the informative nature of your blog-thanks for taking the time to do this and share your techniques, ideas and knowledge. I'm enjoying the photography class so much, I wish I could attend class 3 nights a week instead of just Mondays! lol I'm just so impatient to improve my skills and knowledge. Take a look at my blog when you get a chance and give me some feedback-i haven't fixed the exposure of the black backdrop on the pics of the twins but the most recent pics I did of my friends daughter should be corrected. Thanks and see you Monday night!
ReplyDeleteI just want to thank you for sharing your information and your site or blog this is simple but nice article I've ever seen i like it, I learn something today.
ReplyDeleteBest Deals On Cameras