They say a picture is worth a thousand words, so make sure you capture those fleeting precious moments to share with friends, family and loved ones with the right photo equipment. Are you a novice shutterbug searching for a compact point and shoot or an underwater adventurer looking to explore the mysteries of the sea?  Maybe you need an upgrade from your current professional photography equipment or need surveillance protection for your house or business. Well, say “cheese!” because we’ve researched the best camera stores in Charlotte to handle all your photography needs.

Digital Cameras and Equipment
Biggs Camera
805 S. King Ave
Charlotte, NC 28204
704-377-3492
www.biggscamera.com

Biggs Camera is one of the last locally owned stores devoted solely to cameras and photography in the Charlotte area. Selling both new and used cameras and accessories, this shop’s courteous and helpful customer service and knowledgeable staff differentiates this local business from larger chain stores. The experts here are up to date on all of the latest digital technologies. Books, manuals and in-store demonstrations will help you find the equipment that is right for you. As an added bonus, Biggs’ digital lab can handle all of your photo copying and printing needs.

Vintage Cameras
Sleepy Poet Antique Mall
4450 South Blvd.
Charlotte, NC 28209
704-529-6369
www.sleepypoetstuff.com

If a collection of retro memory catchers is your thing, spend a day browsing the antiques and collectibles at Sleepy Poet. You just never know what goodies you will find hiding in the warehouse full of vintage possessions. If you are up for the hunt, there’s no doubt you can find a beautiful box camera, folding camera or even a long-forgotten Polaroid to add to your growing collection. Staff members can even issue a “road map” to help in your navigation of the sprawling treasure trove.

Related: Best Vintage Clothing Shops In Charlotte

Underwater Cameras
Open Water Adventures
12210 N. Tryon
Charlotte, NC 28262
704-547-5991
openwateradventures.com

If you are looking for a camera that doubles as a swimming buddy, check out the excellent selection of water-proof and shock-proof equipment at Open Water Adventures. The staff is just as knowledgeable about cameras as they are about dive tanks and wet suits, and can help you choose the right piece of equipment to capture the beauty of the majestic sea while you take a dip on your next underwater adventure.

Security Cameras
SFI Electronics
400 Clanton Rd.
Charlotte, NC 28217
704-552-0800
www.sfi-electronics.com

SFI Electronics is based in Charlotte and surrounding areas and provides peace of mind when it comes to protecting your home and/or business with surveillance camera equipment. The SFI personnel have extensive knowledge in installing, monitoring and servicing security systems and their experienced staff will recommend a system that fits your needs. SFI can help you achieve the tranquility that comes with knowing your possessions are protected from theft and loss.

Deals on Cameras
Wolf Camera
3351 Pineville Matthews Rd – #100
Charlotte, NC 28226
704-541-7488
www.wolfcamera.com

If thumbing through the Sunday sales papers is your idea of weekend fun, Wolf Camera offers weekly sales, rebates and financing on their inventory of digital cameras, camcorders and lenses. You can also find camera accessories and memory storage cards in addition to ink jet printers so that you can print your photos instantly at home. With nationwide locations, consider sending a gift card across the miles to the shutterbugs in your family for all of your gift giving occasions.

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A former personal chef, caterer and gourmet market entrepreneur, Alison Penland retired from earning her living in the food business and now focuses on sharing her love of all things food and drink related with friends, family and readers. Alison hails from Charlotte, NC. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.