Exploring the Journey of Buying and Selling Used Photography Equipment
Are there any websites that sell used photography equipment? Absolutely! Whether you're looking to save money, make a purchase decision, or simply add a nostalgic piece to your collection, the world of used photography equipment offers a plethora of options. This article will delve into the experiences and insights of someone who has consistently bought and sold used photography gear, primarily through eBay.
The Reliability and Quality of Second-Hand Lenses
Most of the lenses I own are second-hand manual focus lenses. These lenses often come from specialized shops that thoroughly clean and adjust them before putting them on the market. However, the most common issue is the “infinity off” problem, which is usually fixed as part of the short guarantee period by the sellers. Lenses purchased from trusted photographers also come with their own set of guarantees. Whether it's through a short test or a description that matches the actual product, buying used lenses comes with its own due diligence process.
A Brief History of My Buying Experience
I started purchasing most of my used camera gear online. It began when I stumbled upon a Canon EOS 400D for a price far below its normal asking price. The package included a camera bag, filters for the kit lens, and various other photographic accessories. This initial experience set the stage for what was to follow. The kit lens that came with the camera did not have image stabilization, and I decided to sell it off. After selling it for a bit more than the purchase price, I managed to find a better deal for an image-stabilized lens.
The Benefits of Buying Used Gear
Consistently buying used gear on eBay has its advantages. Paying retail prices, in my opinion, is foolish and fiscally irresponsible. Repurposing and acquiring used gear allows others to enjoy the benefits of ownership and use while saving money. In this process, ‘closet clutter’ is transformed into cash, benefiting both the seller and the buyer. Buying used gear online has its challenges, but I have never purchased anything that I couldn’t use and resell for a small profit.
The Canon Mount and Lens Adaptability
For someone who has a few Olympus and M42 lenses from their film days, the Canon mount is a versatile choice. My Canon EOS 450D was upgraded to a 600D, along with several lenses such as the Canon 55-250mm, the Sigma 18-250mm f3.5-6.3 DC Macro OS, and an Olympus OM-D E-M10. Despite the potential risks, I often manage to buy and sell equipment that I lusted after in the 70s and 80s.
Success Stories and Acquisition of Rare Gear
Buying and selling used photography gear has been a rewarding experience. Recently, I acquired a pristine 70-210mm Tamron zoom for ￡6.00 that can be used on both of my digital cameras with adapters. It's a testament to the resilience of these lenses. Another instance involves purchasing a very rare lens over eBay. Although no tests were possible, the vendor reputation seemed reliable, and the lens was accurately described as "near mint". Even battered lenses are more likely to survive the internet purchase process when they are described accurately and the vendor is trusted.
The Risks and Rewards of Internet Purchases
While the risks are real, they are part of the process. Buying and selling used gear online involves some degree of risk, but like life itself, it is full of uncertainties. Making a purchase decision based on thorough due diligence and reliable vendors can mitigate these risks. Taking a chance and not regretting it is often a worthwhile endeavor.
Conclusion
Whether you're an avid photographer or just looking to dip your feet into the world of photography, buying and selling used photography equipment online can be a rewarding experience. It allows you to save money, acquire rare and desirable gear, and even make a small profit in the process. Whether you're looking for Canon lenses, Olympus accessories, or something else, there are countless opportunities available to make your photography journey more fulfilling.