Can Prices of Nikon or Canon Cameras Be Negotiated with Dealers?
Looking to buy a Nikon or Canon camera at the best possible price? You might wonder if it's worth the effort to negotiate with local dealers. While there is no guarantee of success, this article will guide you through the process, offering tips and insights that could help you get the best deal.
Why Negotiate?
Several years ago, I encountered a frustrating experience when a lens I purchased developed a focus locking issue. Despite the lens being under warranty, I had to send it back and received a replacement after a lengthy process. However, my local camera store, which I've been a loyal customer of for years, made my life easier. They replaced the faulty lens with a new one, significantly reducing my inconvenience.
Being a regular and long-term customer often means that local stores are willing to go the extra mile to keep you as a customer. They can sometimes be more accommodating in terms of repairs, returns, and even price negotiations. Knowing this, it's worth the effort to try negotiating the prices of your desired Nikon or Canon cameras with your local dealer.
How to Negotiate Effectively
The first step is to compare prices. Search for the camera you want on major online retailers such as BH Photo Equipment. This will give you a benchmark against which you can compare your local dealer's pricing. Make sure to check the total cost, including lenses, memory cards, and any other accessories.
Once you have the benchmark price, visit your local camera store and ask them if they can match the online price. If they agree, consider making a purchase at their store. However, it's also a good idea to discuss with them the terms and conditions of the price match. For instance, some stores may require a minimum purchase or have certain limitations.
Even if the dealer doesn't offer to match the price, you can still negotiate other aspects of the deal. You might be able to get a discount on shipping, accessories, or even a future purchase. Additionally, if you're a long-term customer, they might offer some perks such as a discount on upgrades or additional services.
Dealing with Unreasonable Pricing
Local dealerships sometimes inflate prices, especially for high-end items like cameras. In such cases, you'll need to be vigilant and do your research. Here's a real-world example: I was shopping for a small Lowepro camera bag for my Olympus Mirrorless camera and found a local store that had it for $109.00. Upon closer inspection, I compared prices on BH Photo Equipment, where the same bag was priced at $42.00. This discrepancy is a common issue, and by comparing prices, you can often find significant savings.
It's also important to note that some local dealers may not inform you of these price differences. By regularly comparing prices and talking to multiple local stores, you can gradually build a database of local pricing, which will empower you to negotiate better deals and make informed purchasing decisions.
Fair Market Negotiations
In a free market economy, the principle of negotiation applies to almost any item or service. While you might not always succeed, the worst you can expect is a refusal. Companies understand that maintaining customer satisfaction is key to long-term success. Therefore, it's always worth trying to negotiate a better price. Even if the deal you get isn't as good as the online price, the quality of customer service and the overall experience might be worth the effort.
Whether you're negotiating for a Nikon, Canon, or any other camera, the key is to be informed and prepared. Do your research, compare prices, and be polite but firm in your negotiations. Building a relationship with your local dealer can go a long way in ensuring you get the best deal possible.
Conclusion
Negotiating prices for your Nikon or Canon cameras can be a rewarding experience. By comparing prices, keeping a close eye on local dealer practices, and building a relationship with your local store, you can often secure a better deal. While there is no guarantee of success, the effort may well pay off, giving you the best possible price and the best possible customer service.