A lot of people fancy themselves to be photographers, and that is alright. Photography is an art form that was made to be more accessible to people, but it does tend to cost a good chunk of money. For those who want more than just an entry level point-and-shoot digital camera, then you will want an actual DSLR (Digital Single-Lens Reflex) camera that professionals use. Since it is available in the consumer market, you can take a crack at it as well and learn how to be a better photographer, but you will need some tips for buying a DSLR camera in the Philippines.
Start from your level of skills
Take note that most people who aspire to own a DSLR camera are amateur photographers who take it up as a hobby. With that said, it is best to start off with a more beginner-friendly DSLR that does not kick you in the pants with how much it costs. Thus, consider your starting budget and list down the things you need from having your own DSLR camera. The less you need to buy accessories, the more money you get to spend on your camera.
Using a DSLR camera requires a good amount of skill, so you might want to brush up on your knowledge about the device. Nothing irritates actual photographers more than people who use DSLR for the most trivial of things in the most improper of ways. The best tip in buying a DSLR camera is to actually be serious about photography before you get your hands on one. Few things are sadder than the sight of a DSLR gathering dust in some attic.
Buying your very own DSLR camera
If you are living in Metro Manila, you may want to check out a particular place in Quiapo known as Hidalgo Street, which is famous for their stores that sell everything related to photography. The people here are well-versed in photography and prices are very competitive, so you are sure to get most of what you need from this place. If what you’re looking for is not in this place, then you will have to look for it online.
Online shopping
Online items will be more expensive due to various issues like currency exchange rates and shipping costs. However, it is a great source for all thing rare and obscure. If you are really into photography and you want a piece of hardware that you can’t find in any corner of the Philippines, then you might as well seek it online. However, this is only for those who are really hell-bent on getting something very rare. It is not recommended to buy anything online in the Philippines because it really costs that much more than getting it from a shop.
However, you can try online classifieds where people sell second hand goods, including DSLR cameras. While there is a bit of risk involved, the savings you may get for cameras and accessories may be worth your time here. Most of the people selling DSLR cameras here are fellow photographers, so they do not want to scam as much as you do not want to get scammed.
Writing for almost a decade, Kristel Cuenta is one of the contributors of BusinessTips.Ph. She took up Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Secondary Education Major in Literature in college. She has practiced teaching English subject in a secondary school until she decided to use her writing skills and passion for generating an income. Follow Kristel on Twitter @kristelcuenta
Just wish to share some stories. DLSR in Philippines is quite costly because it starts about 30k. Some take advantage of the foreign trip to buy one at a lesser cost, e.g. in Malaysia they could but one at P20k for P38k worth in the Phils.