- Before sending it in, be sure you've checked the camera for all of the "easy" problems, such as: A discharged battery, a malfunctioning memory card, or a dirty lens. Such problems don't require a repair center to fix ... just some common sense.
- If you're having a particular problem with the camera, check the manufacturer's Web site for any service announcements related to your model. If the camera's problem is related to a recall, you can have the repair done for free.
- Along a similar idea, if the problem you're having with your camera is covered under the manufacturer's warranty, always send in the camera for repair. Never turn down a free repair from a professional repair center.
- Check the camera's user guide for any clues to fixing a simple problem yourself, especially the "troubleshooting" area of the user guide. The camera manufacturer's Web site should have digital copies of the user guide and possibly a troubleshooting FAQ that you can use as well. Most of the troubleshooting tips in the user guide are simple fixes you can perform yourself.
- Before choosing the cost of a repair, consider how "roughly" the camera has been treated. For example, if you've dropped the camera a few times, its future lifespan has been shortened, meaning it might not be worth spending a lot on a repair.
- Try to take emotion out of the decision about repairing the camera. It's easy to become attached to a particular camera, especially if you've shot some memorable photos with it over the years. But, to make the most sound financial decision about a camera repair, you need to remember that the photos reflect the memories you've created, not necessarily the camera itself.
- If your camera is an older model an out of warranty, it might not be worth repairing, depending on the problem. Contact the repair center to see if they'll give you a cost estimate or some advice.
- For a DSLR camera, repairing even an older model makes more sense because the DSLR model will cost more to replace than a point and shoot camera. In addition, you probably have invested in some lenses and other accessory equipment that may be specific to your model, making a repair make more financial sense.
- Finally, always take into account the current value of your camera when considering a repair. For example, if you bought the camera three years ago for $300, it's current value might be half that amount. If the repair center then quotes you $200 for a repair, you might be better served spending that $200 on a new camera, because the features and technologies in the $200 camera probably are at least equal to -- if not better than -- the features on your three-year-old camera.