How to Find Reputable Used Camera Equipment to Save Hundreds

Long ago, I was a photography student on the hunt for my first “big girl” camera. With a tight budget and dreams of capturing stunning images, I knew I had to find a quality camera and lens without breaking the bank. The shiny new cameras and lenses were tempting, but what I needed was a reliable used model that could see me through school. Along the way, I gathered a lot of information on finding the best used equipment while making sure I didn’t get taken advantage of which I still practice today.

Today, I’m sharing all that knowledge with you in this comprehensive guide on how to find reputable used camera gear and get the best deals for your money. Whether you’re a student, a hobbyist, or a professional looking for budget-friendly options, these tips will help you navigate the world of used camera equipment with confidence.

Where to Shop for Used Camera Equipment

1. eBay
   eBay offers a wide range of used camera equipment from sellers around the world. Be sure to check seller ratings and reviews before making a purchase. Returns are also welcome based on the seller. Read all details before bidding/buying.

2. Craigslist
   Craigslist can be a good place to find local deals on used camera gear. Always meet in person at a public location and inspect/test the equipment before buying.

3. Used Camera Stores (Online and In-Person)
   Specialized used camera stores often offer a curated selection of equipment. Many of these stores also provide warranties or guarantees and the occasion return policy.

4. Facebook Marketplace
   Facebook Marketplace offers local listings for used camera gear. As with Craigslist, meet in person at a public place and thoroughly check/test the equipment.

What to Look for When Buying Used Camera Equipment

1. Seller Reviews and Reputation
   Check the seller’s reviews and overall reputation. Look for any red flags such as negative feedback or poor ratings.

2. Return Policy and Guarantees
   Ensure that there is a return policy. If not, check if the selling platform (IE Ebay) offers a guarantee or warranty. Additionally, see if your credit card offers purchase protection. If there is no return policy/guarantee/warranty weigh things out if the price point is something you’re comfortable with to take the risk.

3. Condition of the Equipment
   Inspect the item for any signs of damage or defects. Make sure it’s not being sold for parts unless that’s what you’re looking for. Always read the fine print of the listing.

4. Shutter Count
   For camera bodies, check the shutter count to determine how much the camera has been used. High shutter counts might indicate heavy use, such as by wedding photographers, while low counts suggest the camera was gently used or primarily for videography.

5. Inspection and Testing
   Ask if the seller is willing to meet you at a camera shop to test the equipment before purchase. If not, see if the seller is open to having the item inspected at your expense.

6. Auction Terms and Negotiation
   If the item is up for auction, be aware of the terms and whether the seller is open to negotiation. Research recent sales of similar items to understand the market price. To do this, create a watchlist on Ebay, add a few items you’re looking to pick up and let the auction complete. Then go back and see what the items sold for or if they re-listed.

7. Included Accessories
   Check if the listing includes additional items like a lens, strap, or case. However, be cautious with included accessories such as extra batteries or memory cards, as they might not be reliable. It should be noted that camera bodies can be purchased as a stand alone item. Cameras do not need to come with a lens but in certain cases it may be a better deal if they do.

A Tip for Extra Savings

Recently, I picked up a used camera lens on eBay. While I made a personal error at checkout (always check your mailing address!), this mistake actually saved me a few hundred dollars. It turned out that the eBay seller also had a brick-and-mortar shop in another state. The seller suggested I complete the transaction for the lens via their website, which is a small business. This shift from the big eBay platform to their out-of-state small business meant I didn’t have to pay sales tax, as recommended by the vendor. This was a new lesson for me, and I plan to ask eBay vendors if they have an online shop outside of eBay to save even more of my hard-earned dollars in the future.

And a random thought by Alexis… I tend to get these occasionally. Camera equipment is slow to roll out new fancy options anymore because let’s face it, we’ve tapped out the technology. Don’t be afraid to consider buying equipment that is 5+ years old. I still use camera bodies that are 12 years old. Lenses do not fade with technology either; glass options may become better, and the total weight may become lighter if you’re trying to lighten your load. Food for thought!

In Summary…

Finding great deals on used camera equipment takes a bit of effort, but it’s well worth it for the savings you can achieve. By shopping from reputable sources, carefully examining the gear, and understanding the sale terms, you can secure high-quality equipment at a fraction of the new price.

Happy shopping and happy shooting!