How to Buy a Used Camera Without Getting Burned

How to Buy a Used Camera Without Getting Burned


Advice from your Tito who’s been shooting longer than you’ve been paying bills

So you're thinking of buying a used camera. Good move. New gear is great, but you don’t need to drop half your paycheck just to take good photos. The trick is knowing how to buy used without getting scammed.

I’ve been through a few too many online deals over the years. Some went great. Others… well, let’s just say someone once sold me a lens that looked like it had been stored in a swamp. Let me give you the straight talk, no fluff.

1. Know what you’re buying, and why

Don’t just buy what looks cool or what some YouTuber says is “fire.” Think about what you’ll actually use it for. Travel? Portraits? Just want something to learn on?

Start with a realistic budget and a goal. If all you’re doing is learning manual settings or shooting street stuff, you don’t need a full-frame beast. You need a dependable body and a lens that works.

2. Ask the right questions

Don’t be shy. Sellers expect questions. Ask:

  • What's the shutter count?

  • Any issues with autofocus, screen, or battery?

  • Ever been dropped?

  • Any signs of fungus or haze (especially on lenses)?

  • Is this the actual photo of the gear or a stock image?

If the seller gives vague answers, walks around your questions, or says “trust me,” that’s your cue to walk away.

3. Inspect it, always

If you’re meeting up in person, check the camera carefully. Bring your own SD card and lens (if buying just the body) or your own body (if buying a lens). Take a few shots. Zoom in. Check the LCD. Try all the buttons.

Look inside the lens mount. Any rust, oil, or white spots? That’s trouble. If it smells musty, that’s probably fungus. No joke.

4. Don't skip receipts and proof

If the seller says it was “originally bought in Japan” or “no box but guaranteed authentic,” don’t just nod along. Ask for proof of purchase or at least something showing it wasn’t stolen. If it still has the box, manual, or original receipt, even better.

5. Cash is risky. Meet smart.

Don’t meet up in some random alley or fast-food parking lot. Choose a public place. I once met with a car seller in a bank and exchanged money there. I even asked the teller to check the bills for me. Bring a friend if you can.

And don’t transfer money unless you’ve seen the item. No “reservation fees.” No “shipping after payment.” Unless, of course, you've already bought from a reputable seller already. And they have a physical office.

6. Trust your gut

If something feels off, just skip it. There are tons of good deals out there. Don’t let impatience push you into a bad one.

Used gear is a great way to save money and get into photography without breaking the bank. Just take your time. Be smart. Don’t be afraid to say no.

Alright, that’s it. Now go get yourself something decent and shoot with it. And if you're not sure, send me a message. Just don’t ask me to lend you money for it.

Back to blog