Need to upgrade your photography gear or add a secondary workhorse to your current setup? When it’s extra challenging due to budget constraints, consider buying secondhand instead. If you look around from reputable platforms, you can actually find some good deals and secondhand gear in great condition.
On the other side of things, you can also make extra money (or recover some funds spent on gear) by selling gear you no longer use or need. Lenses, for example, have high resale value, especially popular primes and versatile zoom lenses. Many beginner photographers looking for budget-friendly cameras also consider starting with used units in good working condition.
But if you’re new to buying or selling secondhand photography gear, the idea can be daunting. To help you get started, here are five tips to help you prepare and make the most out of secondhand photography gear.
1. Make an inventory of your current gear.
First, it’s important to make an inventory of your current gear to determine the gear you still use regularly and what you can let go of. You don’t want to accidentally let go of gear that you may still find some use in the future. This is especially for limited edition items or those you may find difficult or costly to buy back.
If you’re planning to buy used gear, refer to your inventory to see what item/s your current setup could be missing. Do you need a secondary workhorse for your paid projects? Do you find yourself wanting to use a compact or point-and-shoot camera for leisurely photowalks or personal projects? Likewise, you want to buy gear you actually need and will use; this step will also help you avoid GAS (Gear Acquisition Syndrome).
2. Research secondhand market costs.
Whether you’re buying or selling secondhand gear, it will only be a good deal if the price is right. So if you’re unsure about the price you’re willing to buy or sell, it’s always a good idea to do some research. Apart from checking secondhand markets, you may also want to ask around photography forums and communities for advice.
If you’re planning to sell or trade, used photography and videography equipment website MPB is a great platform to consider. Once you list and rate your gear properly, they will give you a quote right away. You move on to the next step if you think the quote is fair.
3. Choose a trading platform that is fast and reliable.
Platforms like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace and eBay are among the most commonly used for buying or selling secondhand photography gear. However, they aren’t always the fastest, most secure or most reliable. This is where it pays to do due diligence and research for each platform’s pros and cons.
For a dedicated used photography gear platform like MPB, you may find that the price, convenience and risk make it a great option for buying or selling gear for the first time. Many photographers find the process quick and easy. When selling gear, for example, MPB sends their quote almost instantly and provides a prepaid shipping label.
4. Familiarize yourself with the return or repair policies.
If you’re planning to buy secondhand photography gear, don’t overlook your chosen platform’s return policies. When you experience issues with your purchase, you want to be able to either return it or have it repaired. Most buy-and-sell platforms offer little to no after-sales support, with items listed at “as is” basis. So, buyer beware!
When you buy used gear from MPB, you also get a free six-month warranty and 14-day returns period (starting from the day you receive your order). You can also get in touch with their team to address your questions and concerns regarding your purchase.
5. Consider buying or selling secondhand alternatives to more expensive or in-demand camera models.
Among the advantages of buying secondhand photography gear is it allows you to consider several options while also saving a lot on cost. For example, if you’re after popular models like the Fujifilm X100V and X100VI but you’re on a tight budget, buying secondhand is your best option.
MPB has a list of top four alternatives to the X100V and X100VI from Ricoh, Nikon, and Fujifilm, whose features, specs, and value rival that of the popular models.
Likewise, if you have any of these “alternatives” lying around and you no longer intend to use them, it’s time to make space and turn them into $$$ by selling them. Someone else could be looking for them and hoping to put them to good use!
Want to know more? Make sure to check out our guides on MPB and buying and selling secondhand gear.
(Editor’s note: MPB.com is a partner of Photofocus.)