FAQ: What discounts on digital cameras can I get through Columbia?
Q: What discounts on digital cameras can I get?
URGENT UPDATE FROM ALEX 5/11/2006:
Unfortunately, the discounts that B&H have been offering to students and
faculty/staff at Columbia, are no longer available. They were built into a
contract arrangement with University Purchasing, and were designed to expire
after a certain time. That time has come. Currently, the only discount
available from them, is free shipping for any purchase up to 70 pounds.
Simply announce that you are a student, or that you work at Columbia
University when you call in an order.
A: An answer from Alex Krengel in the Equipment Room.
We have a contract with B&H, the legendary photo store. Students, faculty and administrators
are are all entitled to an educational discount. The discount varies by the product you purchase (e.g. the discount will be minor for a consumer digital camera, but may be substantial if you want to get a Sony PD 170).
You need to purchase ahead, and send an email for a quote at:
biddept[at]bhphotovideo.com.
Identify your status at Columbia to get the price quote; it may take 1-2 business days to get a response. Include product, model number, quantity, etc. and any relevant details.
You cannot get the discount at the store. You need the quote first.
B&H’s web site is at:
http://www.bhphotovideo.com
Also see: FAQ: What computer discounts can I get through Columbia?
I don’t understand these instructions. What is meant by “you need to purchase ahead and send an email for a quote…?” Could this process be explained a little more clearly?
Comment by Matt — May 11, 2006 @ 5:11 pm
With the discounts no longer available, I would put in a vote for using the website http://www.bizrate.com/ for electronics purchases. You can compare prices for almost any item available on the net, from just about anyone who is selling it. There are vendor ratings, so you’ll be able to intuit which deals are too good to be true. Often you’ll be buying from out of state, so taxes won’t be charged, and if it’s a big enough item, shipping will be free.
Comment by Matt — May 11, 2006 @ 6:40 pm