A used camera can be a great way to get your hands on an amazing piece of gear for a fraction of the price. But, as with buying a car, you need to make sure that you’re getting a good deal and not a lemon. Here are some things to look out for when buying used camera equipment:
Inspecting a Used Camera
When looking at a used camera online, it’s always wise to start by asking the seller to send you some close-up photos of the camera and lens. Most large online retailers use stock images due to the huge volume of gear that they sell, but if you’re looking at a private seller it may be worth asking them for in-depth pictures so that you can assess the physical condition of the item. If they aren’t willing to do this, then it’s probably time to move on.중고카메라
Another important thing to do is take a photo of the sensor. This will let you see how dirty it is, as well as if any scratches or dust spots are present. It’s a bit more difficult to do this on an actual camera but if you can find some white wall space or a bright sky, take a picture and zoom in to look for any obvious defects.
Lastly, be sure to test the camera and lens by taking some photos and doing some video tests. It’s best to do this in person if you can, but if not then it’s a good idea to make sure that the camera turns on and off, can shoot a few photos at different shutter speeds, doesn’t have any issues writing to a memory card, and is free of dust or fungus.
Also be sure to ask the seller how the camera was used and why they’re selling it. This can give you a good idea of its life expectancy, just like a used car will have a different lifespan depending on how much it’s driven and where it’s been.
Purchasing a Used Camera
The best place to purchase a used camera is at a large retailer that offers added value in the form of a solid return policy and/or warranty. This will typically cost a little more than shopping on Craigslist or at a photography forum, but the peace of mind can be well worth it.
In the US, Adorama and B&H are both excellent places to buy used camera equipment. They both have extensive testing labs and will usually provide a written description of the camera’s overall condition. They also offer a 30-day satisfaction guarantee, which is more than most other retailers do.
If you’re buying a used lens, then I would recommend checking out Wex Photo Video in the UK. They have a number of brick and mortar stores throughout the country and their online store has a very robust selection of used lenses. Their prices are reasonable and most come with a 90-day satisfaction guarantee.