Considering Used Equipment
While it can be a real thrill to unwrap pristine new camera equipment, buying new isn't the only way to go. For film camera users, used equipment can represent significant savings over new. Choosing used over new also lets you buy more camera than you might otherwise be able to afford. However, used digital technology is almost never a bargain.
Photographers often trade their used equipment in when they're upgrading or when they no longer need it. Whether it is worth buying has a great deal to do with exactly how much cheaper it is and what condition it is in. Researching new equipment costs will help you evaluate whether the used equipment you're thinking about buying is a good deal.
Being assured that used equipment is in good condition can be a bit problematic, but you can largely put your worries to rest if you buy from a local shop where you can see and test the equipment before you commit to purchasing it.
If you're buying really old equipment, say fifteen years or more, chances are very good that you won't be able to compare the selling price to what new equipment costs, as it's probably not being made anymore. If this is the case, try looking through old photography magazines to see if you can find an ad for the camera that lists its retail price, or try contacting the manufacturer. In either case, the asking price should be significantly less than the original cost, unless you're buying a rare camera. Think long and hard before buying really old equipment.
Always examine used equipment thoroughly before buying it. Check both condition and function. Don't expect perfection — after all, it's used — but don't buy anything that's excessively worn, either. Acceptable condition changes for used equipment include the following:
Here are a few totally unacceptable condition changes:
There are many sources for used cameras and equipment. Many major camera stores sell consignment or rental equipment, and some mail-order houses specialize in used gear. Since they have their reputations at stake, they're usually the best choices for buying used equipment, but you may find that the amount you save doesn't justify buying used. Online auction houses such as eBay are another popular source for used cameras and cam-era gear. If you decide to go this route, make sure the seller offers a money-back guarantee. You may have to pay shipping and restocking fees, but it's better than being stuck with an inferior piece of equipment.
Are you thinking about buying a used flash at a bargain price?
You might want to think twice. Flash components, such as the flash tube and capacitors, do not age well. Capacitors weaken when they are not used for long stretches of time, so a mint condition four-year-old flash is still a liability.
Even when buying used, keep a written record of the purchase price and date. If there are any warranties associated with your used camera or if there's a limited time for returning defective merchandise, mark those dates in your date book or calendar.
It is also a very good idea to make a list of serial numbers of bodies, lenses, and flashes that you purchase, as well as the purchase date and price. If you ever go pro, this information will be useful on your tax forms. It is also good to have that information organized for insurance purposes.
If you want to learn all the ins and outs of photography through using a manual film SLR, your chances of finding one will be greatly improved if you're willing to buy used. Most manufacturers no longer make manually operated SLRs, although there are some models that have manual override controls. Start shopping for used equipment, and you'll find older model manual cameras that will be perfectly serviceable. They'll let you explore all you need to learn about shutter speed and apertures at a reasonable cost.
