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| - This is not meant to belittle or bash a small business, it is only meant to be honest. This place cannot compete with AMAZON or EBAY, and it's not just because of competitive prices, it has to do with attitude. They are nickel and dimers at this shop, and the markup on every item is ridiculous. 7 dollars for a pack of AA batteries? 100% markup on point and shoots? That's just too much in this day in age.
The reason this place is still around is because it's a historic store in Scottsdale, the shop itself has been there for like 50 years, they have a lot of senior citizens people who go there to get their ancient film processed and to shoot the breeze, and honestly that is what is keeping this place open. The old folks who don't know what Amazon is and who don't care about spending 10 bucks for a AAA battery, they are keeping this place's lights on.
I love when a small business can offer something fresh and new compared to the big giant guys, but seriously...the markup here is just crazy, and with sites like amazon, eBay, even craigslist...with perfectly good gear, for hundreds of dollars less? It makes no sense to pay so much. The selling point this store has is that they will give you personalized service and teach you how to use a camera...okay, well that still doesn't justify overpaying hundreds of dollars. Considering YOUTUBE and the free, easy ways to learn camera work, it just doesn't really cut it ya know? Does that mean that the markup is basically covering the cost of an extremely pricey "how to use your camera" session?
Anyways, there are better deals to be found, and in this modern day paying too much for something is not cool. I also find it very tacky that the owners respond to yelp reviews with such a standoffish attitude...If you are getting low reviews, it isn't because yelp is evil, it's because people are seeing a pattern of not-so-good service. Treat people right, in person, and on yelp, and you'll do okay.
Lower those prices, fo real.
peace and love!
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