Photography Tip—Solutions for a Broken Camera, Part 2
Part 1 of this PhotographyTalk.com article presented the first five steps you should take when your camera breaks. Part 2 guides you through seven additional steps. Follow them all carefully and you’ll be enjoying digital photography again, quickly.
Keep Your Receipt and Warranty Where You Can Find Them Easily.
Create a specific place to file or store your camera-purchase receipt and warranty because you’ll want to refer to them before you submit the camera for repair. Better yet, read and know the details of the warranty thoroughly as soon as you buy the camera. You’ll panic less when the breakage occurs, if you know your camera will be covered wholly or partially by warranty. As much as it might hurt, it’s also better to know in advance that the warranty doesn’t cover accidents, which are considered negligence, legally, or other occurrences. That knowledge may help you to be more careful and avoid accidents. You should also take your camera for repair as soon as possible, especially if the warranty is soon to expire.
Look at Your Insurance Policy.
The accident or event that led to your disaster may not qualify for repairs under the warranty, but your homeowner’s or renter’s policy might. All of your insurance policies should also be stored in that easy-to-access place where you’ve placed your camera warranty. If the policy isn’t clear about whether it covers your camera (insurance policies are known for being confusing), then call your agent as soon as possible for all the details.
Understand Your Repair Choices.
The severity of the malfunction or breakage will probably determine whether your camera can be repaired locally or must be sent to the manufacturer. The warranty or your insurance policy may dictate the repair procedure. Probably, your best first step is to take the camera to the retail store where you bought it or a local camera or photography shop for a preliminary evaluation. Many of them, as well as the top manufacturers, are more likely to provide you with a free estimate. Even if you’re a regular customer of a local camera shop, visit more than one, so you have a range of repair choices and prices. Finally, don’t be surprised if the repairs cost more than buying a new camera.
Rent While You Wait.
If you’re were about to go on vacation or had scheduled a specific photography session or trip, then consider renting a camera and/or lens while yours is being repaired. It will add to your costs during the repair period, but, in some cases, it’s a viable option.
Be Prepared to Replace.
While your local camera shop or manufacturer is making that preliminary examination of your camera, prepare yourself for the possibility of replacing your camera. Buying a new camera may not be your only option (and may not be financially possible). You may be able to find a used or reconditioned camera that is newer than your model online, from the local photography shop or other sources.
Your Broken Camera May Still Have Value.
The free estimate may determine that your camera or lens is not repairable. That’s a low blow, but it may still have some working parts that others will buy. A local shop that repairs cameras may offer you some money for it, or you can sell it online. You won’t receive much for it, but it won’t be a total loss.
The Best Excuse for a New Camera.
Sometimes, a broken camera simply can’t be repaired, except for a prohibitive amount of money. Psychologically, it’s better to forget the past and assume a positive attitude for the future. Maybe, now, you have the best reason to buy the latest digital camera technology, and your spouse, family and friends could hardly blame you, especially if they expect you to be taking many digital photos during an approaching vacation, family gathering or other special event.