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Best Camera Stores In Minnesota

They say a picture is worth a thousand words, but that fails to note that a good picture requires good equipment. With baseball games to catch, lake-time fun to record and a thousand other memories waiting to happen here in Minnesota, don't be caught empty handed. Check out this list of five of the best stores in Minnesota to pick up a new camera today, so that when that picture perfect moment arrives, you're ready to capture it.

West Photo
21 University Ave.
Minneapolis, MN 55413
(612) 379-2321
www.westphoto.com

West Photo offers the full-service camera experience out of its store in the Northeast neighborhood of Minneapolis. With a friendly and knowledgeable staff, the store has come to be known to be the place for camera buffs to head when they need new equipment, a replacement part, equipment cleaning or the chance to rent something for a specific project. With a selection that covers film, digital and studio quality pieces, it's hard to beat West Photo as a first choice. Visit them in store or online for a full list of brands they offer, items available for rent, or to link into their community of photographers.

National Camera Exchange & Video
7101 France Ave.
Edina, MN 55435
(952) 927-9010
www.natcam.com

Founded in 1914 and owned by the Liss family ever since, National Camera started in Minneapolis and has been a staple in Twin Cities' photography every since.  With an emphasis on customer service and a commitment to offering high quality products and knowledgeable staff, National Camera offers both new and used cameras, as well classes for those wanting to learn how to get the most of their cameras.  Brands offered include Canon, Leica, Pentax, and Nikon. Check 'em out in one of their other retail locations around the Cities -- Golden Valley, Burnsville, Maple Grove, or Roseville -- to learn more.

Related: Best Photography Exhibits in Minnesota

Sun Color Photo
2187 Fourth St.
White Bear Lake, MN 55110
(651) 429-6347
www.suncolorphoto.com

Nestled within Medicine Chest Pharmacy (both owned by Richard Sundt) in the heart of picturesque downtown White Bear Lake,  Sun Color Photo is a testament to Sundt's abiding affection for photography. As an exclusive Canon dealer, the store offers a wide range of cameras with a trusted name, perfect for amateurs and more serious photographers alike. Sundt also stocks accessories like cases, stands, and film to help you on your way. Sun Color Photo offers digital print services that help take your pictures to works of art.

First Photo
102 E. Central Entrance
Duluth, MN 55811
(218) 722-9567
www.firstphoto.biz

First Photo has the kind of pedigree that makes other camera stores jealous. With 20 years in Duluth and nearly 40 years worth of experience behind shop owner Mike Mennes, this store stands head and shoulders above the rest. Carrying both new and used cameras, First Photo carries the latest models from Nikon, Canon, and Olympus. Additionally, the shop carries all of the gadgets and gizmos you may need to support your picture taking, including lenses, memory cards, and lighting equipment. Want to learn more about taking a good picture? Take advantage of the classes offered, or browse the tips posted to First Photo's website.

Sassy professional by day, men's style expert by night, Bethany Rein is a twenty-something living in Minneapolis. She loves baseball, coffee and the well-dressed male. An avid runner, Bethany also plays recreational sports with more enthusiasm than skill. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.
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