How to buy and sell used equipment
I suspect a great deal of this blog will already be known to many of you, but for those who are just starting out in photography you may want to know what the best ways to pick up used equipment are. Also, some of this info may be helpful for those who have equipment they no longer use or are upgrading.
For buyers
Buyers have a multitude of places to buy used camera equipment these days. The following are the major options.
- Buy it at your local camera store. Most larger camera stores sell used equipment. Typically the inspect it before putting it up for sale and will price it according to its condition. In general most of these stores are honest, though you’ll pay a bit more for the item than you would elsewhere.
- KEH.com. This is the most reliable place on the Net to buy used equipment. They have a wide variety of equipment and their prices are fair, though a bit higher than if you purchase the item directly from the seller.
- EBay. EBay can be a great source for used equipment, particularly if the item you are purchasing is hard to come by. However, you won’t know the true condition of the item until you receive it, so there is a fair amount of risk involved.
- Craigslist. The variety of items is not high, though the more common items (such as newer camera models) are readily available there. Prices are all over the place, but you can usually negotiate. Always have common sense when meeting someone you don’t know. I have never had issues with meeting anyone through Craigslist to sell gear, but if you are a single woman I would meet in a public place.
- Groups and clubs. If you are a member of a group or club, this is a great way to buy equipment. Usually these are people you know and trust, and their reputation is on the line when they say the equipment is in good shape.