Written by Kevin Backman
Why Buy Used
With so many new cameras coming out all the time many photographers forget how useful older gear can be. Used gear is a great way for any photographer to find a tool that may not be the latest but may still be the greatest for them.
Now, buying a used digital camera body seems counterintuitive since we as photographers are always hearing about "the next big thing" the newest camera can do. In reality, a lot of older cameras are still very capable tools in today's market.
DSLR's in the Used Section
For example the Canon 5D Mk. III, a DSLR from 2012 with 22 megapixels, is still used by both working pros and hobbyists alike and can be had forr a fraction of the price of the 5D Mk. IV or the EOS R5. The AF system in the 5D Mk. III is fairly similar to what the 5D Mk. IV offers, it's only missing some minor improvement in high contrast AF, and dual pixel AF. It still takes the same EF lenses and with the money that you save on the body you could potentially get a second lens for your kit! Getting into the Canon EF system is also an incredibly safe investment because the EF lensese are fully compatible with all of Canon's modern DSLR and mirrorless cameras (with the EF to RF adapter). This means that you have extensive mobility in terms of how you could potentially upgrade you rkit in the future, or supplement your already existing kit with a B Camera!
Mirrorless Cameras
The used selection isn't just limited to DSLR's either. There are lots of used options for mirrorless cameras for example since Nikon recently released the Z7 II there has been a rise in the availability of the original Z7 in used inventory. Since it is still fairly new the Z7 is still quite competitive and shares most of the features available in the Z7 II. The trade-off for a lower price breaks down mainly to a slightly slower processor and slightly less video capability but for (generally) about $1,000 difference the Z7 is a real consideration for those looking to get into mirrorless for slightly less than what is currently offered in the market. Nikon is also working on filling out their Z mount line of lenses and the F to Z adapter allows for most modern Nikon G lenses to mount and work seamlessly with the Z7 so there are lenses on the market and to look forward to should you decide to pick up a used Z7.
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Analog Options
For those interested, in analog photography, the used section always has something for you. With a constantly changing stock make sure to check our website or speak to a store associate who can help you find what you're looking for. Some interesting options that are commonly (and currently) available are the Olympus OM-2 and the Minolta XG-M. Both of these 35mm SLRs have everything you need to take a good photo and nothing you don't. The Olympus OM-2 is a very good option for all sorts of photographers from beginners to advanced pros. The Olympus OM-2 was one of the first cameras with TTL available for flash, and has an auto mode so the photographer did not have to worry about fumbling with settings. The Minolta XG-Mis the classic student camera, many schools would purchase a handful of them and use them for photography classes. Because of this, they are abundant on the used market and still very good for photographers of all levels. Both the Olympus OM-2 and Minolta XG-M have good lens lineups meaning that you won't be short on options for kit upgrades later on down the line.
Accessories in the Used Department
The used department isn't just limited to cameras and lenses. A lot of used accessories come through the store as well! One we have in stokc now is the Elinchrom Quadra Ranger RX with the RQ Head S. It is a portable strobe unit with a light Lithium-ion battery pack, which could be useful for photographers interested in artificial lighting outside of the studio and on the go. The Ranger RX also features a modeling light function allowing for composition without potential light pollution. It's currently available and there's even a special deal on it both in-store and online!
Unique Photo Trade-in Event
These four examples are by no meants the only things available in the Unique Photo used section, there is a trade-in event happening at both the Philadelphia, PA and Fairfield, NJ locations. This week-long trade-in event from February 15th to the 21st offers an extra 10% bonus value in store credit on trade-in items! This means that during and after the trade-in event there will be a wide variety of new pre-owned items coming in, and if you have any old gear you're looking to sell to fund an upgrade this is the time to do it.