One of the greatest challenges in the photography world is deciding whether you should buy new camera gear or look for a cheaper and older model on the secondhand market. Although it is much cheaper to buy a new one, it is also more expensive.
Although purchasing a secondhand can be a bit riskier, nevertheless, it can also be rewarding. Ultimately, there is no definitive answer, but we can provide you with some tips and tricks to help you in making the right decision for your next purchase. Keep on reading to find out the differences between new and secondhand camera gear.
What Can You Expect from Secondhand Photography Equipment?
When it comes to buying secondhand photography equipment, it can greatly help if you list down all the advantages and disadvantages that are associated with the specific item that you are searching for. In this way, you can have some ideas on what to expect if you decide to make this purchase.
What are the Pros of Purchasing Secondhand Camera Gear?
Let’s start by understanding why many photographers opt to purchase used camera gear on the secondhand market: it’s simply more affordable.
While this may not come as a surprise, it’s important to consider that the initial cost savings may not necessarily translate to long-term savings. Secondhand camera equipment can be cheaper unless it is a rare or highly sought-after item. Often, the only way to afford a new camera is to find the best deal in the secondhand market.
The question is, can you find good deals? Before purchasing used camera gear, it’s crucial to research the cost of the item if purchased new. This will give you an idea of how much you can actually save.
If you’re interested in buying secondhand items, thorough research is key. One important factor to consider is the length of time the item has been used since its purchase. When purchasing used camera equipment, take note of whether the gear has been used for years or just a few months. Time plays a crucial role in determining the value of a secondhand item. Additionally, check if the item is still covered by warranty.
As a general guideline, it’s not recommended to purchase secondhand gear if the price difference is less than 15 to 20% compared to the cost of new equipment. Also, remember that taxes may apply to new items but not to used ones. Use this as a benchmark when considering the purchase of used camera equipment – anything less than this may not be worth it.
What are the Cons of Purchasing Secondhand Camera Gear?
When purchasing secondhand items, there’s always a risk involved as you don’t know the item’s history and how it has been treated over time.
It could have been well-maintained by someone who knew how to keep it in excellent condition, or it may have been mishandled by a careless individual, resulting in impacts or shocks.
Some damages may be evident, while others may not be immediately noticeable. The unknowns can be the most challenging aspects, unless you choose to disassemble the item and thoroughly inspect each component. Otherwise, you have to rely on the seller’s words and trust that they are being honest and transparent.
If you’re considering a camera that is over 20 years old, it’s unlikely to be covered by a warranty anymore. The presence of a warranty can make a significant difference as it provides support and assistance when issues arise.
If a secondhand item is still under warranty, its price may be slightly higher compared to similar models without warranty coverage.
On the other hand, if the item is no longer covered by a warranty, you will assume the risks associated with the purchase. While you may still receive some assistance from the manufacturer’s technical support, repairs are typically not cheap.
If you’re buying a secondhand item without a warranty, it’s crucial to ensure that it functions properly. When purchasing such an item, you are trading the assurance of fully working equipment and technical support for the cost savings of buying secondhand.
If everything goes well, you’ll save money that can be allocated to other expenses. However, if problems arise, the money you saved may need to be spent on repairs. Consider if you are willing to take this chance before making the purchase.
Apart from evaluating the length of time since the equipment was purchased, there are other factors to consider before committing to the purchase of secondhand camera gear.
While time is a good indicator of an item’s value, it’s not always accurate. It’s important to determine how frequently the camera has been used. For example, if you are torn between two similar one-year-old cameras, one owned by a beginner who rarely uses it and the other owned by a professional wedding photographer who frequently used it, the former would likely be the preferred choice.
However, it can be challenging to know the exact usage history when you don’t know the previous owner. In this case, the shutter count can provide valuable information. By using specific software, you can check the number of shots taken with the camera since its first use.
Additionally, take some test shots with the camera to check for any abnormal colors, halos, or reduced contrast, which may indicate dust or oil on the sensor that requires cleaning or repair.
Ensure that the pictures are sharp throughout the frame. If the camera passes these tests, has an acceptable shutter count, and shows moderate wear and tear, then it could be a good deal worth pursuing.
At Enhanced View Services Inc, we offer both new and used camera gear. For more information about our products, please contact us at 305.971.2916 or send us an email at [email protected].