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Buying a pre-owned camera is a great way to get high-quality photography or video equipment for a fraction of the price of new equipment. Whether you're a hobbyist photographer or videographer, someone wanting to become a professional, or wanting to get an upgrade on your current equipment, buying used can save you a lot of money. Used cameras do carry some risks, such as concealed damage, wear, or aged technology.
In order to make a wise investment, there are a number of important things to consider before you make your purchase. This tutorial details the most important features to look for when purchasing a used camera to assist you in acquiring a dependable and high-quality device.
Before committing to a purchase, research the camera model you’re considering. Different cameras serve different needs. Some perform well in low-light photography, others excel in video recording, and some are better for beginners or professionals. Examine the camera’s specifications, including sensor size, resolution, ISO range, autofocus capabilities, and video features. Check if the manufacturer still supports the model with firmware updates or replacement parts, as older cameras may no longer be serviced. Websites like DPReview, B&H Photo, or manufacturer pages (like Canon, Nikon, Sony) provide detailed specs. Forums like Reddit or photography blogs can reveal common issues with specific models.
Consider whether the camera meets your goals. For example, a mirrorless camera like the Sony A7 III is great for hybrid photo-video work, while a DSLR like the Nikon D750 might be better for traditional photography. Make sure the camera’s features match your intended use, whether it’s for portrait, landscape, wildlife, or street photography.
A thorough physical inspection is crucial when buying a used camera, as even minor damage can affect performance. Request high-resolution photos or inspect the camera in person if possible. Here’s what to check:
Body and Exterior: Look for scratches, dents, or cracks on the camera body. Minor cosmetic wear is normal, but deep scratches or structural damage could indicate mishandling.
Lens Mount: Check the lens mount for scratches, dents, or loose connections, as these can affect lens compatibility and focus accuracy.
Sensor: The sensor is the heart of the camera. Inspect it for dust, scratches, or dead pixels. You can test for sensor issues by taking a photo of a plain surface (like a white wall) at a high f-stop (e.g., f/16) and reviewing the image for spots or anomalies.
Shutter and Buttons: Ensure the shutter button, dials, and other controls feel responsive and not sticky or loose. For DSLRs, check the mirror mechanism for smooth operation.
LCD Screen and Viewfinder: Verify that the LCD screen and electronic viewfinder (if applicable) are free of scratches, dead pixels, or discoloration.
Ask the seller about the camera’s history, including whether it’s been dropped, exposed to water, or used in harsh environments like dusty or humid conditions.
The shutter count is an important indicator of the number of times a DSLR or some mirrorless cameras have been used for photos. Each shutter actuation is a photo taken, and mechanical shutters have a limit to their life, which is typically model-dependent, 100,000-400,000. If the shutter count is too high, then that indicates the camera is getting very close to the end of its shutter life, and your repair bill might be significant.
You can ask the seller for the shutter count, or download software such as EOSInfo (for Canon) or use online tools like Camera Shutter Count. If the camera is a mirrorless platform, the shutter count could be less significant if it has electronic shutters, but it's still a good idea to assess if it has been used extensively.
The sensor’s condition directly impacts image quality. Beyond checking for physical damage, test the camera’s performance by taking sample photos under various conditions:
Low Light: Shoot in low-light settings to assess noise performance and ISO capabilities.
Dynamic Range: Capture scenes with high contrast (e.g., bright skies and dark shadows) to evaluate the sensor’s dynamic range.
Color Accuracy: Check for accurate color reproduction by photographing a color chart or familiar objects.
If you can’t test the camera in person, ask the seller for unedited sample images taken with the camera. Pay attention to sharpness, noise, and any signs of sensor degradation, such as banding or discoloration.
A camera's autofocus is an important aspect of taking sharp pictures, particularly for fast-moving subjects and video. Trying autofocus in various modes (single-shot, continuous, or tracking) helps you determine if the system is accurate and fast enough. If you test a DSLR, verify both the viewfinder and live-view autofocus systems, as they can use different autofocus systems. If you're testing a mirrorless camera, ensure that face or eye detection works properly if it's applicable.
If at all possible, test the camera with different lenses to eliminate any potential problems with the lens itself. Ask the seller if the auto focus system has been repaired or recalibrated. A misaligned autofocus system can produce pictures that will consistently be soft.
If the camera comes with a lens, make sure it is in good condition and fits the camera’s mount. Look for scratches, fungus, or haze on the glass, and test the autofocus and aperture functions. Determine whether the lens is a kit lens or a higher-quality option, as this affects the overall value.
Also, check that the included accessories, such as batteries, chargers, memory cards, or camera straps, work properly and are compatible. A missing charger or special battery can lead to unexpected costs. For instance, older Canon or Nikon batteries might be harder to find than newer ones.
Ensure the camera’s firmware is up to date, as manufacturers often release updates to fix bugs or improve performance. Check the manufacturer’s website to confirm whether the camera model is still supported. Some older cameras may no longer receive updates, which could limit compatibility with modern software or accessories.
If the camera relies on proprietary software (e.g., for tethering or raw file processing), verify that it’s compatible with your computer’s operating system. Outdated software can be a hassle for post-processing.
The seller’s credibility is as important as the camera’s condition. If buying from platforms like eBay, KEH Camera, or MPB, check the seller’s ratings and reviews for a history of reliable transactions. Be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true, as they may involve stolen or defective cameras.
If purchasing locally, meet in a safe, public location and ask for proof of purchase or ownership. Request a written receipt or agreement outlining the camera’s condition and any included accessories.
Used cameras rarely come with a manufacturer’s warranty, but some retailers or sellers offer limited warranties or return periods. For example, reputable used camera retailers like KEH or MPB often provide a 6-month warranty or a 14-day return policy. Clarify these terms before buying, especially if purchasing online, to protect yourself if the camera arrives in poor condition.
Factor in potential repair or upgrade costs when budgeting for a used camera. For instance, replacing a worn shutter, sensor, or battery can be expensive, and parts for older models may be scarce. Research the availability and cost of accessories like lenses, batteries, or memory cards for the specific model. If you plan to expand your kit, ensure the camera’s lens ecosystem is affordable and accessible.
Purchasing a used camera can save a lot of money while acquiring professional-grade gear, but it requires some due diligence to avoid a costly mistake. By researching and understanding the model's features, thoroughly examining the physical condition, double-checking or estimating the shutter count, verifying the image quality, verifying the autofocus functionality, and inspecting for all accessories, you set yourself up to make an informed decision.
Furthermore, looking into the seller’s ratings, confirming support of the firmware, and understanding if there is any warranty of the camera will help eliminate costly mistakes. By acquiring the necessary tools, you will be well-prepared to find a used camera that is worthy of reliable use and can fulfill your creative desires for years to come.
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