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Best Camera Shops In DFW

Listen up shutterbugs, May is National Photography Month. Are you camera ready for the occasion? Whether you're in the market for a new DSLR, a used point-and-shoot, rental equipment or even a cool vintage Polaroid, these metroplex camera shops offer an awesome collection of photographic gear for savvy snappers, photography enthusiasts, and consummate photo pros.
Competitive Cameras
2025 Irving Blvd.
Dallas, TX 75207
(214) 744-5511
www.competitivecameras.com

Not only is Competitive Cameras the largest camera shop in the metroplex, it's also the best, according to pro photographer Peter Poulides, owner of Dallas Center for Photography. Poulides has been purchasing his cameras, lenses, tripods and assorted photography paraphernalia from the store for decades, and it's the place he sends all of his students and clients. The family-owned operation stocks its 5,000-square-foot store with everything any photography geek would want and for the same, or even lower prices, than most online dealers offer. The store provides the best array of rental gear and accessories in town. Most of all, father and son owners, Ramsey and Eugene deliver customers the knowledgeable and personal service that can't be found from any online or big box store.

Don's Photo Equipment
2731 Irving Blvd.
Dallas, TX 75207
(214) 630-4062
www.donsphotoequipment.com

Need some film for that old 35mm camera in the attic? How about a like-new Canon 5D Mark II? Not a problem. Don's Photo Equipment is a virtual wall-to-wall showcase of used photographic gear, boasting everything from used cameras in just about every format to old 16mm projectors, camera accessories, darkroom equipment and background sets. And Don's is one of the only places in Dallas to find a wide range of film, including Impossible Project Polaroid film to use in your grandfather's old Polaroid camera.

Related: Best Photography Classes In DFW

Arlington Camera
544 W. Randol Mill Rd.
Arlington, TX 76011
(817) 261-8131
www.arlingtoncamera.com

The folks at Arlington Camera want you to enjoy your new camera so much that they even offer personal demonstrations and free classes to get you snapping your best in no time. But that's not the only reason to purchase a camera from here. For starters, the store stocks a jaw-dropping inventory of new, used and one-of-a-kind items offered at or below the prices found on many reputable online shopping sites. It's not just cameras, accessories and darkroom equipment you'll find here. The shop also features a comprehensive selection of tools to up your photography game on iPads and iPhones. Can't find what you're looking for? No worries, it can be ordered. Can't afford to buy what you need for that photo shoot? The store will rent it to you. Minor repairs, sensor swab cleaning, video transferring and excellent product support are just a few of the reasons why this shop has endured for over twenty-five years.

Denton Camera Exchange
117 Piner St.
Denton, TX 76201
(940) 206-5112
www.dentoncameraexchange.com

You won't find another camera shop like this one in Denton, nor will you find anything like Denton Camera Exchange anywhere else in the metroplex. The store stocks plenty of things you'll need and want to take your photography craft to the next level, whether you're an amateur or a pro. But the place is much more than your usual camera store, it's a vintage wonderland decked out with retro furnishings (also for sale) and filled with an incredible collection of old cameras that span decades of photographic history. As well, the shop also doubles as a gathering place for anyone interested in photography, offering everything from store events and guest lectures to seminars, club meetings, and dark room usage.

Fort Worth Camera
2900 W. 6th St.
Fort Worth, TX 76107
(817) 335-3456
www.fortworthcamera.com

Perhaps you might find something online for less, if you're willing to spend time searching for it. But the professional service and knowledge, along with the vast selection of gear you'll find at this family owned camera shop will more than make up the difference in price. That's not to say you can't score a deal on a variety of cameras, studio lighting and other photographic equipment here. The shop frequently runs specials and contests that customers can find out about via Twitter. How many online stores offer in-house insurance that covers all damage to your camera and includes six free cleanings over a three year period? The store also provides rentals, classes, seminars and an in-house photo lab for all of your printing needs.

Related: Best Places To Take Family Photos In DFW

Ilene Jacobs is a freelance writer living in Dallas, Texas. Ilene enjoys writing about a variety of topics, ranging from food, fitness and travel, to kids, pets and senior care. You can find some of her work at Examiner.com.
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