Due to financial constrains and for some; a matter of preference, a good number of people are willing to purchase a used DSLR or mirrorless camera. Nigerians are known for their love for used products which they often term: "London used", "tokumbo", "Chinese used", "UK used" ETC. In fact, an average Nigerian believes that a used product may be better than a brand new one! Ironically, I share the same line of thought too. I have purchased used digital cameras before and trust me,  they are still working just fine. But you need to smart and consider some things before you buy that used DSLR or mirrorless camera.



Here are Things To Consider Before Buying That Used Camera:

Physical Factor

The first thing to really look at when you want to buy a used product is how healthy the product looks physically. The same can be said for a digital camera . You need to examine the digital camera carefully for scratches, broken parts, worn out and fading parts and you always wanna make sure that the product have not been abused by the seller (this will be evident upon physical examination). Check all the buttons, the scroll wheels, the shutter release button: ensure that they are all responsive and working properly. Check the lens mount pins, ensure non is bent or missing. Check the lens for dirt or moulds which might be growing inside.

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Lens and Accessories Availability:

This is a particular point you should have at the back of your mind even if are a getting a new DSRL or mirrorless camera. You wanna ensure that there are accessories like batteries, lens hood, flash gun, wireless remote triggers and some other essential photography accessories readily available in the market for the particular digital camera you plan on buying. Sony E-mount cameras accessories are relatively scarce in the Nigerian market, compared to Canon and Nikon product that can found even in the grave yard.


Shutter Count 

In order to have a better understanding of this point, read this article carefully. This is the most important tool you should arm yourself with when you want to purchase a used DSLR or mirrorless camera. Always check the shutter count of any DSRL or mirrorless camera you want to buy. You don't wanna end up with a used camera rated at 50k cycles which has already hit 40k cycles in the hands of the seller.

Price

I have seen people place ridiculous price tag on digital camera they intend selling. I came across an ad on OLX, it was a used canon eos 1000D with an outrageous price tag of 180 thousand naira!
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When you want to buy a used DSRL or mirrorless camera, find out the price of a brand new model and use that info as your bargaining yardstick.

Know the model you intend buying 



Don't just buy the camera because its price won't break your bank. Do a quick research, read reviews and ratings online before you finally place an order. Don't buy digital cameras you know nothing about, you may regret it during the long run.



Have you ever bought a used gear? Kindly share your experience using the comment box below.
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Source: http://www.fototech.com.ng/things-consider-buying-used-digital-camera/