A Visit to a Local Camera Shop

Earlier this year, I was devastated to learn that my local camera shop, Penn Camera, had closed half of their stores including the one within driving distance of my home.  Local to me is within 10 miles.  They were a true camera shop where they provided all types of services:  camera & lens rental, photo processing, and classes.  Besides cameras they sold a limited supply of bags, refurbished and used cameras/lenses, offered an array of studio products, and some unique photography accessories.  I enjoyed spending time at their shop.  Their sales personnel were very knowledgeable and often spent time answering my questions.  I purchased my DSLRs from them.  

Recently, I had the chance to visit another camera shop, Ace Photo.  I had read their ads and visited their website a few times.  I thought this shop would be similar to Penn.  Was I wrong!  As I walked inside this shop, I was immediately drawn into the nostalgia feeling.  The shop had a "mom and pop" feeling.  Nothing fancy, except they had a lot to offer for a photographer.  They carried the latest camera models as well as used/refurbished and vintage cameras.  

I spent quite a bit of time at this shop.  I met a very knowledgeable sales person who answered all my questions.  Ace Photo is now my favorite camera shop.  Their inventory is probably the best I've seen for a brick and mortar store.  Their selection is better than B&H Photo Video in NYC.  

One area of the shop that really intrigued me was their camera bags.  They carried a big selection of Tamrac, Lowepro, Think Tank, Kata, Domke, JillE, Tenba, Crumpler, Canon, Nikon, Bower, Vanguard, Clikelite, etc.  I'm sure there were a few others I might have missed.  

Camera bags galore!  (Picture by Ace Photo)

Yes, I did spend some wonderful time here.  Time well spent.