Purchasing a camera can be a big investment. Digital cameras and all of the equipment can be expensive, so you’ll want to spend your money at a great camera store. How do you know which camera stores are better than others? For starters, they should be well-staffed and well-stocked. Check out these three important things that every great camera store should have.

1. The staff is knowledgeable and helpful.
   The staff of a camera store can greatly impact your buying experience. No matter if you are purchasing your first of fiftieth camera, a staff member should be able to assist you every step of the way and give important advice and information about digital cameras.
   If you are a beginner, a good camera store will have a staff member on hand to answer any and all of your questions. They?ll know the difference between the types of cameras and educate you on how to use them. Most importantly, they?ll be honest with you. You?ll want them to show you the best types of cameras for beginner photography and not try to sell you the most expensive model on the floor.
   
   If you?re an advanced hobbyist or professional photographer, the staff should have extensive knowledge of photography and know the ins-and-outs of the best brands for professional results.
2. They carry a variety of products.
   The best camera stores will have a variety of products from which you can choose. They will have more than just digital cameras, but film cameras as well.
   Be sure that they carry the different types of digital cameras so you can find one that fits your needs. They should have basic point and shoot digital cameras to more complex DSLR cameras. DSLR cameras are comprised of two parts: the body and the lens. When shopping for this type of camera, you?ll want to consider the different types of interchangeable lenses depending on the results you desire. Make sure your specialty camera store carries a vast variety for all your picture taking needs.
3. They allow you to test the merchandise.
   Buying a camera can be a big investment, and you?ll probably want to try out a camera before you buy it. There are so many different features and settings on cameras. Each camera has different photo taking options and you should be able to have a little bit of practice with them in the store. Ask a staff member if you can take a couple pictures in the store to test out all of the different settings. They shouldn?t have a problem with you testing a camera (actually, they should encourage it).

No matter which camera you choose to take home, your camera buying experience should be fun. If you find a great store with a great staff, you’ll surely leave a satisfied customer.