The Best Photography Stores in Detroit: Where to Buy Camera Gear
Detroit has a few solid options for buying photography gear, but when it comes to where to actually shop, my recommendation is simple: Procam in the Detroit suburb of Livonia. There are a couple of other stores worth mentioning—Westborn Camera and Woodward Camera—but for professionals who need reliable pricing and availability, Procam is the only real choice. Let’s break down the best photography stores in Detroit and what they offer.
Procam: The Only Store I Recommend
Price, Price, and Price
If you’re a working professional, the only reason to buy anything at a brick-and-mortar store is because you need it the same day. And that’s where Procam shines.
Procam sells in-store at the same prices you’d find on Amazon, Adorama, and B&H. Unlike other camera stores that rely on marking up inventory, Procam competes with online pricing, making it the only store in the Detroit area where you can walk in and get a fair deal.
Decent Selection of Gear
Need lighting, grip equipment, tripods, modifiers, or lenses? Procam likely has it in stock. Unlike smaller specialty stores, which may not carry a full selection of gear, Procam stocks nearly everything you could need the same day as a professional photographer.
Discounts Are Possible
In the past, I’ve even gotten a 10% discount just by asking the manager. If you’re a regular customer or making a big purchase, it’s worth seeing if they can offer a deal.
Bottom Line: If you need a problem solved today, Procam will solve it.
Facebook Marketplace: The Best Deals on Used Gear
Why You’ll Find Great Deals
Photography is one of those hobbies that people impulse buy all the time. Cameras and lenses often sit unused, and when people decide they aren’t serious about photography, they want to get rid of their gear fast. Since they don’t want to be reminded of their financial mistake, they often sell at emotional, low prices just to move on.
How to Get the Best Deal
The key is patience. Decide exactly what gear you want, and be prepared to wait. The best deals don’t happen overnight, but over a few months, you’ll likely see the item pop up at a price that’s well below retail.
Bottom Line: Facebook Marketplace is great if you’re willing to wait for the right deal.
Westborn Camera: Vintage Gear Heaven
My Experience
If you love vintage cameras and lenses, Westborn Camera is the place to go. While it’s not the best for modern professional equipment, it excels in offering classic, quirky, and collectible gear.
I once purchased a lot of four defective Soviet lenses for an exceptional price. After rebuilding and cleaning them myself, they still perform incredibly well to this day.
What You’ll Find
Westborn Camera specializes in film cameras, vintage lenses, and old-school photography equipment. Whether you’re looking for a rare piece to restore or just want to browse for fun, there’s no better place in Metro Detroit for vintage gear.
Bottom Line: If you enjoy exploring and tinkering with classic cameras and lenses, Westborn is worth a visit.
Woodward Camera: For the Conspicuous Consumer
Overpriced Inventory
Woodward Camera is located in Birmingham, one of Detroit’s most affluent suburbs. Their business model is simple: mark up inventory between 20% and 100% over online prices. They cater to customers who value convenience and prestige over price.
Who Shops Here?
Their target audience is wealthy hobbyists who don’t mind paying a premium to shop in an upscale store. If you’re a working professional who values fair pricing, there’s simply no reason to shop here.
Bottom Line: If you care about getting the best price, avoid Woodward Camera.
Conclusion: Where Should You Buy Photography Gear in Detroit?
For professionals who need new gear at fair prices: Go to Procam.
For bargain hunters looking for used gear: Check Facebook Marketplace.
For vintage enthusiasts who love film and classic lenses: Visit Westborn Camera.
If you don’t mind overpaying for gear: Go to Woodward Camera (but I wouldn’t recommend it).
Detroit has a handful of camera stores, but when it comes to real value, Procam is the only store I recommend. Whether you’re shopping for cameras, lenses, or lighting gear, it’s the only place where you’ll get a fair deal.