Since I don't have a lot of money to spend on a camera or lighting and sound equipment is it a good idea to buy it used?
Has anybody ever had a bad experience?
Has anybody ever had a bad experience?
Is it a good idea to buy a used camera?
- Thread starter Helena Teixeira
- Start date
I would not buy a used videocamera unless it came from a reputable retailer like BH PhotoVideo. Lights? Sure, used is good if it tests out, but you should be buying your lights from a big box retailer like Home Depot. Sound? I suppose if you do a LOT of testing before you roll film.
If you know the history of a particular piece of equipment (meaning you were on the production when it was in use) it might be somewhat safe to buy, but even then its buyer beware.
If you know the history of a particular piece of equipment (meaning you were on the production when it was in use) it might be somewhat safe to buy, but even then its buyer beware.
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I tend to buy things used if I can save a significant amount of money. Ebay and Etsy are my preferred places for scoring used gear. One tip, though: don't buy from anyone who has a feedback rating below 99% positive. If possible, go for people with 99.5% of higher. And read the negative reviews if you can, because sometimes it's obvious the person leaving the review is just being unreasonable, while other times it can show you a potential major issue.
I'm not a fan of buying anything expensive that has the potential to have hidden problems (like any kind of electronics). I mean, if it was a really, really good deal I might take a chance, but only if I could afford to have it not work.
I'm not a fan of buying anything expensive that has the potential to have hidden problems (like any kind of electronics). I mean, if it was a really, really good deal I might take a chance, but only if I could afford to have it not work.