Digital cameras 101

[GoGayleGo]

Hello,

I recently (within the last two weeks) broke down and bought a dSLR - Canon Rebel Xsi.  Have been using an S3 IS for a few years, bought it b/c of its advanced controls, figured I'd learn how to use them all, then buy a dSLR.  Well, instead, I used the S3 IS in auto mode most of the time.  Finally figured I just needed to buy the dSLR to force the issue.

Am happy with the camera (though I have a looooooong way to go, but that's not the camera's fault, LOL), and have the kit lens.  I also bought the 50mm f/1.8 since I want to be able to take photos indoors without flash.  Much like Gail, I miss the long zoom of my P&S.  So I'm thinking I'll get the Canon EF-S 55-250 f/4.0 - 5.6 IS (again, much like Gail).  Can order it new from Amazon for $255 (though out of stock right now).

I decided to prowl Craigslist, someone local to me is selling this lens for $175.  They say they have used it for ~50 shots (came with kit, but they say they have other lenses to use and want this to go to a good home).

Would you consider buying a used lens?  If so, what questions need to be asked?  I'm concerned that since I'm new at this, there could be something wrong and I wouldn't be able to tell.  Your feedback is greatly appreciated.

Thanks,
Gayle

[bdery]

Hi!

I have personally owned about 10 different DSLR lenses (in less than two year! In Pentax land, it's called lens buying addiction). Only one of thoses lenses was new, so you could say that I'm a fan of used lenses. In particular with Pentax, since every lens ever made still fits the modern cameras, there aregreat deals to be found. The same can be true with Canon but the older lenses might not fit so be wary b

The things you should look for are:

-obvious signs of use/abuse. Scratches, marks, etc. Cosmetic damages lower the value of a lens and CAN be signs of internal damage.

-damage to the frot element, persistent cleaning marks on the glass, internal dust, damage to the filter ring

-oil on the aperture blades, fungus and haze on the glass are to be avoided

-mechanical action: zoom/focus rings, aperture ring if present

-operation : if you buy the lens locally, mount it on your camera and test it. Listen to the AF mehanism, check the AF speed, look to see if the aperture ring closes as it should

That's a lot but much better safe than sorry. If you buy remotely, ask for detailed pictures and discuss "return policies" if the lens is not as descdibed. Ask all the questions you might have.

I hope this helps!

 

[ShutterbugGail]

If you can personally examine the lens, per bdrey's suggestions, go for it. HOWEVER, just make sure it's the IS (Image Stabilized) version. Canon makes the same focal length lens without IS. Besides the advantages of IS, the newer version is a much better lens.

I'd make an offer.

I paid $350 for my lens new, so the price isn't bad if you end up having to buy a new lens. Plus you have a year warranty (extended for an extra year if you charge it fully on a credit card (check the terms with the credit card company).

[GoGayleGo]

Thanks to both of you for the info!

I also discovered that Adorama sells a refurb for $199 (with a 1 year warranty). Reviews from folks who bought the refurb version were quite favorable.

I contacted the Craigslist seller, let them know the above info, and asked if their price was negotiable.  I'll keep you posted on how it all turns out!

Thanks,
Gayle

[ShutterbugGail]

Here's some info on Credit Card Extended Warranties:

http://www.digicamhelp.com/buying-guide/extended-warranties/creditcard/

Note: link corrected

[ShutterbugGail]

Personally, I'd pay a little extra and get a lens with a warranty. Refurbished equipment is often hardly used. Again, if you pay the full price with a credit card you may get an additional warranty.

Here's some information on buying a refurbished camera, but the same applies for lenses:

http://www.digicamhelp.com/buying-guide/checklist/refurbished/

[GoGayleGo]

Just a little update...

I decided to go with the refurb lens, and used my credit card to buy it (thanks Gail for the tip, I didn't know about the warranty extension and was able to verify with my credit card company that this is indeed something they offer).  Lens is in-transit, so I can't yet comment on it, but I'm excited!

Thanks for your help.

[kevinconner75]

Actually I also have the same opinion. I would not advice buying a used lens though.

[bdery]

Kevin, I'm curious. Why would you advise against buying a used lens? Have you had bad experiences? I personally advise caution, but I see no rason to steer away completely from used lenses.