For camera bargain hunters, some tips when going to Hidalgo Street in Quiapo

Posted at 1:33 am November 06, 2011

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By Anna Valmero

MANILA CITY, METRO MANILA— I’ve been told a number of times that photography is a very expensive hobby. This is the reason why enthusiasts should avail of bargains and discounts, especially when the camera equipment is both high-end and very expensive.

It is no secret that the long stretch of Hidalgo Street in the bustling neighborhood of Quiapo is home to numerous camera shops that offer the best discounts for bargain shoppers. I went there with a friend recently to look for lens filters and scout prices for a telephoto lens.

Photography hobbyist Elena Ensenado said she bought her first digital single lens reflex (DSLR) camera at Hidalgo. She opted to get a second-hand camera for a price lower than brand new units sold in air-conditioned malls.

I have proven this big discount difference when a friend and I canvassed for a Canon 600D DLSR that costs at least P38,000 at M20 Enterprises. Retail shops in malls offer the camera body and kit lens for P49,000.

Since most shops offer a P10,000-price difference on big purchases such as brand new DLSRs, you are required to pay the full amount in cash or use your credit card for a single payment. If you find this too heavy on your pocket, you can consider saving up first before buying the camera.

Shops such as Fortress Digital Foto Center offer a vast array of photography supplies and equipment including photographic papers and chemicals, memory cards and laminating equipment. A 16-gigabyte SD card costs P2,000 for bulk orders; should you need only one, try haggling for the price especially when you buy other camera equipment.

If you are short on money, head to Dong Camera Repair Center, which offers low price but quality service to fix your flash, camera, lens and digital video camera.

Other stores also offer second-hand lens, camera body and equipment at about a fraction of the original cost. These are also stores that have a treasure trove of antique and vintage camera designs. If you are lucky, you can get a working piece for P5,000 or below. Watch out for dust and molds when buying second-hand lenses.

Make sure to check out camera bags that include padded walls and rain covers for added protection. Prices range from P800 for DSLRs with kit lens up to P2,000 to fit camera with long telephoto lens.

Most shops offer bargain prices but here are some helpful tips when going to Hidalgo Street for the first time:

Research before you buy. Make sure to know the general look, specifications and features of the camera equipment you decide to buy so that you would not get duped. Also, look online for photography forums that discuss store outlets that offer good payment options or after-sales service.

Don’t be an impulsive buyer. The first store you visit may not offer the best camera deal for you so make sure to devote time to look around and check prices of the same camera unit from other stores.

Wear comfortable shoes and clothes. Forego the flashy attire and stilettos in favor of comfort when walking around and scouting for different prices along the line of stores. There are some potholes along Hidalgo Street so some parts would get pools of floodwater. Don’t forget to bring water, towel and umbrella before visiting.

Keep your wallet and cash secured. Do not bring a big amount of cash when scouting the area. Also, secure your valuables in a body bag or small shoulder bag so you would not lose them. Avoid putting your bag or other valuables on tables or glass panes when viewing items to avoid the salisi gang. In case you need cash, there are ATM machines at the nearby SM Factory Outlet mall.

Bring along a photography enthusiast before you buy. This is helpful especially if this is your first time to buy a camera. An advice from them before getting a unit would help you decide that you are getting a good deal. They may also help you haggle for the price and recommend stores where they often buy their equipment.

To get to Hidalgo Street, ride the LRT 1 lane to Carriedo Station. Hidalgo Street is behind the SM Factory Outlet in Quiapo.