Quote:
Originally Posted by flames_fan_down_under
Honestly unreal information thanks so much for the help. I have definitely been undergoing a crash course in camera specs, lenses, terminology etc.
When buying a used camera what are the main things to look for?
Obviously, checking all components, make sure it actually take pictures, any damage to the sensor is a big issue, but anything else?
I see people posting shutter counts, any number that would make you think twice of buying the camera?
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Nikon D750 motors are tested for 200,000 shutter actuations, but take that number with a grain of salt. An electronic camera used for 200,000 clicks is definitely VERY tired. I wouldn't buy a used camera with more than 25,000 shutter actuations.
Watch listings on Calgary kijiji. Look/wait for someone selling a set (camera + one or two lenses). People get in and out of the hobby a lot these days. Buying used equipment for 50% of the new retail price is reasonably common and accepted for bodies. Lenses are a bit more difficult to find for 50% of retail, but, again, if you are not in a rush, possible.
Body should be clean outside. More importantly, sensor should be spotless inside. You would need to have the mirror locked up and inspect the sensor with a loupe/light for spots and scratches. Take a test shot on white paper and inspect the image for dark spots.
When shooting, shoot in single and multiple bursts to hear the motor working well and clean without bad sounds.
Lenses should be clean without scratches on the glass, front and rear. Use a flashlight to shine through the lens. There is always a little dust inside, that's fine. What's not fine - fungus and haze (looks like fog). If the lens is not clear, it's bad. Test a lens on the camera to see if it auto-focuses precisely. Inspect the image by zooming it 200% in the camera to see if the thing you focused on WAS actually in sharp focus.
That's about it.
Here, a couple of decent sets of D750 + Nikkor 24-120 zoom; a very useful universal walk-about setup:
https://www.kijiji.ca/v-camera-camco...ens/1473446829
https://www.kijiji.ca/v-camera-camco...nly/1463970485
Have a look, try negotiating a $300-$400 off. Ask if a seller is willing to throw in a few accessories as freebies. Save $100-$150 for a used 50mm/1.8g fast lens and some accessories I've mentioned earlier.
If you decide to choose a mirrorless route, look for Sony A7, here's the link to a set mentioned by Table 5:
https://www.kijiji.ca/v-camera-camco...f-2/1473939521
one more with a zoom:
https://www.kijiji.ca/v-camera-camco...ens/1462958904
Seems cheaper and ready to go. But not as good as D750, of course.
Good luck!