Terrible experience, I was scammed.
Written: Jun 19 '06

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I purchased a camera on May 18, 2006 through this companys website, and was called shortly thereafter by Bernard, a sales representative. He advised me to purchase an additional, better battery, and told me the factory battery included in the initial price had limited power. I was skeptical because I had read reviews of the camera that stated the battery power was excellent, and that over 500 photos could be taken on a single charge. He told me that the battery would only last long enough to take the pictures and would then shut down immediately afterwards, that it would not last long enough for me to review the pictures or upload them. I was still skeptical, but he told me that I had 30 days to return the battery if it turned out I did not need it, and even promised to pay the shipping charges if I decided to return it. I was about to go on vacation so I decided to buy it, since I would be using my camera a lot while vacationing and didnt want to risk having any problems. I received the camera and extra battery a few days later, and was surprised to find that they were listed on the invoice as one lump sum, that is, the price of the camera was bumped up from $270.99 (including shipping) to $326.98 and the battery itself was listed as free. This was a red flag of what was to come, but I forgot about it as I enjoyed figuring out my new camera. I found that the original battery worked just fine, and I rarely needed to recharge it. I did not use the extra battery purchased, and left it sealed in its package. I then called Bernard at Preferred Photo 29 days later to return the battery. I was unable to reach him and left a message. I called again the next day (June 16, 2006) and was able to reach him this time, but he quickly transferred me to Customer Services. I told the customer service representative (who said his name was Anthony) that I wanted to return the battery, but was told that I could not return it, as the guarantee was only for 21 days, and not only that- but I would have to return the whole package, including the camera, and not just the battery. I told the representative that Bernard had told me I could return it within 30 days, and had agreed to pay shipping, but he refused to listen or help me. I was frustrated and told him I felt like I was deceived because I didnt need the battery and they had lied about it being risk free, but he said it was my own fault for not reading the small print on the website, and since it was an order placed online, my vocal order placed with Bernard was void. This does not make any sense, because it was the original online order that I want to accept, and I wanted to send back the extra battery Bernard sold me. I advised Anthony that I would file a complaint with the Better Business Bureau, and asked for his name, he would only give me his first name. I have filed my complaint with the Better Business Bureau and will also contact the New York Attorney General. Do not trust this company or any under its parent company, Broadway Photo. The following link is helpful in seeing what kind of company youre dealing with: http://www.sheddingsomelight.com/buy-cameras/list/dealers-bwayfam.html
Recommended:
No
What product did you purchase or try to purchase? Digital Camera- Fujifilm Finepix F11
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