I seldom leave home without my camera, which explains why I have thousands of digital photographs documenting my experiences. However, despite my passion for photography, I’ve always resisted the urge to upgrade to a higher-quality camera. Until recently, I couldn’t justify the expense, particularly since my current camera takes perfectly fine photos.
Earlier this year, I finally gave myself permission to buy a Sony NEX, but only if I didn’t remove money from my savings account, and I didn’t use my credit card. My plan for getting a new camera without breaking my buying rules has succeeded beyond my expectations. Ease and simplicity have been the keys to my success. Here is how I made saving for my tech gadget hassle free.
Before I Started Saving
I Determined How Much I Needed
Knowing how much you need for your purchase is an important first step to developing your savings strategy. Initially, you may not know the specific model or brand you want to buy, but you probably know the features you want. With a little research, you can easily obtain a price range. Plan to need more, not less.
I Opened a New Bank Account
A separate banking account protects your savings, allows you to easily monitor your progress, and is a great motivator, as you watch the account grow closer to meeting your goal.
I Developed My Savings Plan
Take time to evaluate the pros and cons of your savings plan. You should have confidence that you will follow through with your plan, and that your plan can support your savings goal. My plan worked because it was easy, and required minimal sacrifices.
My Three-part Savings Plan
Selling on eBay
My closets were overflowing with things I no longer used. I had clothes of varying sizes, some of which I’d never worn. I had boxes of household items, waiting for that someday when they would be needed. It was time to clean house. Having previously sold some items on eBay, I knew this would be an easy way to make some extra money.
Becoming a More Price-Conscious Shopper
With the price of groceries skyrocketing, it was time to modify my shopping habits. Instead of always buying well-known brands, I knew I would save money if I watched for sales, bought more store-brand products, and exercised restraint when shopping. By regularly check my cupboards, I eliminated unnecessary purchases.
Dining Out Less Frequently
I used to buy my lunch at the office cafeteria. I also dined at restaurants at least twice a week. Now, I am saving money by packing my lunch and eating more dinners at home.
Before I Decided Which Tech Gadget to Buy
I Made a List of Basic Requirements
Be sure you know the must-have and like-to-have features of your tech gadget. If the product doesn’t meet all of your basic requirements, you can quickly eliminate it from your possible choices.
I Talked to Friends and Family
Often you can get the best, most unbiased information from your friends and family. Learn by their experiences.
I Talked to Salespeople
Visit local retail stores for hands-on demonstrations of products. Be prepared with a list of questions.
I Searched the Internet
The Internet is an excellent way to research the latest tech gadgets. Consider recommendations from various sources, including CNET, PCWorld, Tech Gadgets, Amazon, and dpreview.
I Comparison Shopped
Compare prices at local retail and online stores. Be sure you know the store’s return policies.
My Final Choice
I’ve narrowed my choice down to either a Sony NEX-5 or 7. I like the NEX-5 because Sony continues to update firmware to add features and improve usability, the camera is smaller, and enough time has elapsed to work out potential bugs. However, it is hard to resist the additional features and technological advancements of the NEX-7.
I will be making my decision in the next couple of months, but regardless of my choice, my research has convinced me that I can’t go wrong with either of these cameras.
Resources:
Tech Gadgets
dpreview
PCWorld
CNET