© Pakhnyushchyy camera
© Pakhnyushchyy
Shops
There are still a lot of Camera shops around the UK with a mix of single shops or chains of shops spread throughout the UK where you can buy lenses.
Probably the most well knows chain of shops is Jessops. They hold a decent range of Sony, Canon and Nikon lenses but are lacking Pentax and Olympus. Their prices are also not the cheapest and in my experience the knowledge of the Staff can be a bit hit and miss.
Jacobs are also a large range of shops although their shops tend to be smaller than Jessops. Their stock range, however, is bigger as they stock all major DSLR manufacturers. Their staff also seem to be more knowledgeable while their prices are comparable, or cheaper, than Jessops.
Probably the best place for new equipment is a private store, the prices aren’t likely to be much different while the expertise will usually be the best.
Finally don’t forget to consider second hand equipment, private stores often sell them and there are at least one chain of camera stores sell second hand.
Online
Online is generally cheaper but you have to rely on reviews to judge equipment, or taking advice on photography forums. Alternatively you can seek advice in a local store then shop around for the best price.www.dpreview.com is an essential visit for getting reviews on digital hardware.
Online can be bought from many stores’ websites plus some mail order only sources. srsmicrosystems is an excellent choice for Pentax, Nikon and Olympus and they also have a small range of Canon lenses.
Ebay is worth checking out for secondhand equipment but use care as sorting disputes if you have a problem can be awkward. That said so far I’ve never had a problem with eBay bought photographic equipment.
Amazon is another place worth checking out but your best friend when buying online is your favourite Search engine. Once you have decided on which lens you want use your search engine to find the cheapest prices. Often there are comments available at retailers so you can gauge how good a retailer is then place your order.
Conclusion
Personally I would generally buy new hardware from a high street store. The extra price is worth the expertise and advice. Second hand generally online is fine.