Life of a Photographer: When a Repair Actually Makes Sense

(and When It Doesn’t)

Life of a Photographer 🎞️ — We’ve talked about when to replace gear, why rice won’t save your camera, and the risks of buying used. So, let’s flip the question — when does it make sense to repair your camera?

The short answer: when the cost of repair is a fraction of its value — and when that camera still earns its keep.

I had a customer once bring in a high-end Nikon body with a dead shutter. The repair estimate wasn’t cheap, but it was still under 30% of the cost of a replacement. That’s a no-brainer — fix it. A professional camera body is built to last, and a new shutter can breathe years of life back into it.

But if you’ve got a decade-old entry-level camera, even a “small” repair often exceeds what it’s worth on the resale market. At that point, you’re just throwing good money after bad.

Here’s a simple way to think about it:

Repair makes sense when…

✅ The camera is a high-end or pro model.

✅ The issue is minor (battery door, loose screw, firmware bug).

✅ Replacement cost is 3× or more than the repair.

✅ You’ve invested heavily in compatible lenses and accessories.

Replacement makes sense when…

❌ The repair quote exceeds 40% of the camera’s value.

❌ It’s an aging entry-level or mid-tier model.

❌ Parts are hard to find or discontinued.

❌ You’re already eyeing an upgrade that fits your needs better.

Warranties, Insurance, and All-Risk Policies

Before you spend a dime on repairs, check your warranty. Most manufacturers cover defects for a year, and extended warranties (like those from Mack Worldwide or SquareTrade) can cover accidental damage, wear and tear, or even provide loaner equipment.

If your warranty has expired, an insurance policy might save you. For professionals or serious hobbyists, an “all-risk” or inland marine policy covers your camera gear for nearly any mishap — theft, accidental drops, or water damage — whether you’re shooting in the studio or halfway across the world.

Here’s how they differ:

• 🔧 Manufacturer Warranty: Covers defects or internal failures. Usually short-term.

• 💼 Service Contract: Adds accidental damage coverage and longer protection (no deductibles).

• 🌍 All-Risk Insurance: Protects against almost everything — loss, theft, fire, water damage, and travel incidents.

A good insurance plan often costs less per year than a single major repair — and that peace of mind is priceless when your camera is how you make your living.

💡 Pro Tip: Think of protection as part of your workflow. A few dollars a month in insurance or an extended warranty can keep a small accident from becoming a career interruption.

📸 Final thought: Cameras are tools. Fix what serves your craft, replace what doesn’t, and protect what keeps you shooting.

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