the fantasy does not always match the reality of supporting small family camera stores ,,,,

I like the idea of supporting small mom and pop businesses as much as anyone but the realities don't always match the fantasies.

When it comes to small camera stores I have found that very often  it just is not worth it.

several reasons :

1) Many times they don't have the same return policies as Amazon or large electronic chain stores.

2) If they do take returns many times they have large restocking fees.

3) Many times they don't have the best models in stock or are the last to get them

4) Many times they only deal with a few brands and will poo poo anything they dont sell

5) They make the hugest deal about offing any discount claiming that the manufacture wont allow it - yet Best Buy manages to have the item on sale with full warranty

6) Many times they don't seem to know about rebates that are being offered and you then have to haggle with them - " hey BH has it on sale - why cant you ? "

7) When it comes time to sell they often try to fleece you and on the reverse when you buy used equipment from them they try to high ball you

8) They often take advantage of newbies by doing things such as telling the customer that they have no idea of the shutter actuations on a camera - claiming " its just not that important "

9) Many times each salesman is a fan of a particular brand and will only push his or hers favorite brand

10) many times they will lag in lead times telling folks that film development or printing times will be weeks when you could have them in days on line