Advice on buying used camera and equipment

**justinsfa** · #1 10-11-2011, 10:37 PM

I have been debating on whether I want to drop the big $$ on a new DSLR camera because I am not real sure how well dragging around a big camera through the duck sloughs is going to go...

Sooooo, a quick search of craigslist resulted in an unbelievable number of listings for cameras and lenses.

I figure some of these folks just bought the camera and didnt use it enough to justify the purchase...

Soooo, besides obvious cosmetic inspections and corrosion checks in the battery compartment, what else should I look for?

I am leaning towards used because there is a fair chance that this camera may take a dip and I dont want to be out a HUGE amount of money....

Your thoughts, as always, are greatly appreciated!!!!

**chubri777** · #2 10-12-2011, 01:52 AM

I personally don't have any problem buying used. You might even consider buying refurbished. I have bought 2 from this place and can't tell them from brand new.
http://shop.usa.canon.com/webapp/wcs...10051_-1_29252
I don't know what you are looking to spend but these are good deals and they at least have a 90 day warranty.
The lens to shoot what you want will be the biggest expense. I'd say the first camera on the list with the short kit lens and maybe a used 70-200 f4 from craigslist. I'm thinking about 1500 for all of that.
You can also check out the classified on photography forums such as http://photography-on-the.net/forum/. Most photographers take really good care of their gear.

**chubri777** · #3 10-12-2011, 02:09 AM

I just read your other thread on this forum. That price range will be tough. Maybe this?
Camera and kit lens: http://shop.usa.canon.com/webapp/wcs...0051_222026_-1
Longer lens for the longer shots: http://shop.usa.canon.com/webapp/wcs...0051_288151_-1

**justinsfa** · #4 10-12-2011, 09:10 AM

Thanks for the links.

I talked to a guy who photographed one of our hunts 2 seasons ago and he was running a Cannon Eos XS with a 75-300 Cannon lens and he was getting the kind of shots that I was looking for... (here are some of the photos)

I found the same setup he had, just with the newer model (the XSi) including the 75-300 lens for 400 bucks.....

Am I missing something or totally going the wrong direction with what I need for my usage?

**chubri777** · #5 10-12-2011, 01:24 PM

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=&A=compareChart&Q=&ci=274&items=732106-GREY%3B397663-GREY%3B169269-GREY%3B169267-GREY%3B

Here are the choices at or near that focal length. Judging by the pics he's probably using an older model 75-300 that has image stabilization because the two on the right are the latest and they don't have it. L to R the first one is a great lens, lotta money. The second one I have and it's also really good most of the time. It has to have really good light for it to be good. The last two are bottom dollar budget lenses and I doubt you would be happy. Of course, the lens I suggested earlier is no great lens itself, but it fit you budget and has image stabilization.
I shot these Mallards with my 70-300 at about 35 yards. The zoom didn't bring them this close....I blew it up and cropped. This is better quality than what the new 75-300 can get, but still lacking IMO.

**justinsfa** · #6 10-12-2011, 05:30 PM

Excellent info and thanks again for more links and your fine example! I like that pic!

So basically, you just shoot a camera that has a high enough megapixel to allow you to zoom in to bring your target in closer without distorting the photo, correct?

I can tell you, I am not going to drop 1500 on a lens.... thats just too much $$ to tote into the environment that I am in....

I would "settle" for a little lesser quality....

Am I at least barking up the right tree for the camera body with the Cannon XSi? I can always upgrade lenses down the road if I need to...

Also, sorry to ask so many questions, but I took the Image Stabilization as a good thing, but reading your post, it sounds like that technology is old news and better stuff is out there.... or did I misunderstand...

Thanks again so much for your help.

**chubri777** · #7 10-13-2011, 01:41 AM

Xsi is an excellent camera. I have a friend that has one, takes great pics.
Image stabilization is a good thing and probably required for the action shots you want. If you can find a used 70-300 with IS I think that'll be the way to go. I looked at the Houston craigslist but didn't find one. If I find a deal on one I post a like on this thread. They are out there and should run around 350-425. I'd sell you mine but I've found a niche for it and it fits in my cargo pockets without me noticing it, I decided to keep it.

**tennisplayer2** · #8 10-13-2011, 09:30 AM

I brought a Canon XSI with a 18-55 IS lens (it looks like new) for $325 off of craigslist and I'm very happy with it. Pictures are super clear. The lady also included a nice bag and uv filter.

**cajunautoxer** · #9 10-13-2011, 02:54 PM

What's your budget? Can't recommend anything with out knowing limit. I buy my camera equipment used just like my guns. I'm a Canon buy myself. I would prefer a 20D or 30D over the XS/XSI series myself.

I don't like CL myself. Here's a good site and lots of locals selling their stuff. I have the same screen name there. If you have any questions just ask.

http://www.pixtus.com/forum/

**justinsfa** · #10 10-13-2011, 03:03 PM

I was looking to spend <800...

I will check that site out, THANKS!!!!