What B&H Photo Is and How to Shop There

B&H Photo Video is a New York–based electronics retailer that sells cameras, lenses, lighting, audio equipment, computers, and video gear both in a physical store and online. You can browse and buy on their website at bhphotovideo.com, place an order by phone, or visit their showroom in Manhattan. They stock new and used equipment from major brands like Canon, Sony, Nikon, Apple, and DJI, and they ship to most U.S. addresses.

The store is known for competitive pricing on photo and video equipment and for detailed product descriptions written by their own staff. Unlike some electronics retailers, B&H does not charge sales tax outside New York State (though this may change depending on where you live). Their return window is typically 30 days for most items, though some products have different terms.

Key Takeaways

  • B&H Photo sells cameras, lenses, computers, and audio gear online and from a physical store in New York City.
  • You can order on their website, by phone at 1-800-221-5743, or in person, and most orders ship within one business day.
  • B&H does not charge sales tax to customers outside New York State, which can make prices lower than other retailers.
  • Returns are usually allowed within 30 days if the item is unused and in original packaging, though some products have shorter windows.
  • The store is closed on Saturdays and Jewish holidays, which affects both phone support and in-store shopping hours.

How to Place an Order Online

Start by going to bhphotovideo.com and searching for the item you want or browsing by category. Product pages include detailed specs, customer reviews, and often video demonstrations shot by B&H staff. You can filter by brand, price, and features to narrow down your choices.

Once you find what you want, click "Add to Basket" and proceed to checkout. You will enter your shipping address, choose a shipping method, and provide payment information. B&H accepts major credit cards, PayPal, and Apple Pay. If you are ordering a camera body or lens, you can often add a protection plan at checkout for an additional cost, which covers accidental damage beyond the manufacturer's warranty.

Most in-stock items ship the next business day. B&H offers several shipping speeds: standard ground, expedited, overnight, and two-day options. The cost depends on your location and what you order. You will receive a tracking number by email once your package ships.

Ordering by Phone or In Person

If you prefer to talk to someone, call B&H at 1-800-221-5743. Their phone team can answer questions about specs, recommend gear based on what you are trying to do, and process your order over the phone. Phone hours are Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Eastern Time, and Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The store is closed Saturdays and on Jewish holidays.

B&H's physical store is located at 420 Ninth Avenue in Manhattan. You can walk in, handle equipment, and buy on the spot. The showroom is organized by category and has staff on the floor who can answer questions. If you live in or near New York City, visiting in person lets you see and feel gear before you buy it.

Understanding B&H's Pricing and Tax Policy

B&H Photo's prices are often competitive with other major electronics retailers. One reason is their sales tax policy: they do not charge sales tax to customers in most states, only to New York residents. This can save you 7 to 10 percent depending on your state's tax rate. However, some states now require online retailers to collect sales tax regardless of where the seller is based, so check your state's rules or your final checkout screen to see what you will actually pay.

B&H also runs sales and promotions, especially around major shopping events like Black Friday and back-to-school season. You can sign up for their email list on the website to hear about deals. They also offer price matching in some cases — if you find the same new item cheaper elsewhere, contact them to ask.

Returns, Exchanges, and Warranties

B&H's standard return window is 30 days from the date you receive your order. The item must be unused, in original packaging, and in resalable condition. To start a return, log into your account on bhphotovideo.com, find your order, and click the return button. You will get a prepaid shipping label and instructions. Once B&H receives and inspects the item, they will refund your money to your original payment method.

Some items have shorter return windows: opened software, opened media cards, and opened batteries are typically final sale. Used or open-box gear has its own return policy, usually 15 days. If you want to exchange an item for a different one rather than return it, you can do that through the same process — just note in the return request that you want an exchange.

B&H sells manufacturer warranties and their own protection plans at checkout. A protection plan typically covers accidental damage, drops, and water damage beyond what the manufacturer covers. The cost varies by product, usually 10 to 20 percent of the item's price. You can add a plan only at the time of purchase, not later.

Shipping, Delivery, and Tracking

Most in-stock items ship within one business day of your order. B&H uses UPS, FedEx, and USPS depending on the item and your location. When your order ships, you will receive an email with a tracking number that you can use to follow your package in real time.

Shipping costs vary based on the weight of your order and how fast you want it. Ground shipping to most U.S. addresses takes 5 to 7 business days and is usually the cheapest option. Expedited and overnight options are available if you need gear quickly, though they cost more. B&H also offers in-store pickup if you are in the New York area — you can order online and pick up at their Manhattan location, often the same day or next day.

What to Know Before You Buy

B&H is a legitimate, long-established retailer with a strong reputation in the photo and video community. They have been in business since 1973 and are known for honest product descriptions and good customer service. However, there are a few things to keep in mind.

First, their phone lines and in-person store are closed on Saturdays and Jewish holidays, which can affect when you can reach them with questions. Second, if you are buying used or open-box gear, inspect the product photos carefully and read the condition description — these items are sold as-is with shorter return windows. Third, some items like drones or certain electronics may require you to provide a signature on delivery, so plan to be home or arrange a delivery time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does B&H charge sales tax?

B&H charges sales tax only to customers in New York State. Customers in other states do not pay sales tax at checkout, though some states now require online retailers to collect it anyway. Check your final checkout screen or your state's tax rules to be sure.

How long does shipping take?

Standard ground shipping takes 5 to 7 business days to most U.S. addresses. Expedited and overnight options are available for faster delivery at a higher cost. Most in-stock items ship within one business day of your order.

Can I return something I bought at B&H?

Yes, within 30 days of receiving your order, as long as the item is unused and in original packaging. Some items like opened software or batteries are final sale. Start a return through your account on bhphotovideo.com and use the prepaid shipping label they provide.

What if I have a question before I buy?

Call B&H at 1-800-221-5743 Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Eastern Time, or Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. You can also visit their store in Manhattan at 420 Ninth Avenue. They are closed Saturdays and on Jewish holidays.

Does B&H offer protection plans?

Yes, B&H sells manufacturer warranties and their own protection plans at checkout. These typically cover accidental damage and drops beyond the manufacturer's warranty. You can only add a plan when you first buy the item, not later.