If you are buying used cameras and second hand camera accessories there are a few things you need to be aware of, and I will try to list and explain how to avoid getting stung by would be fraudsters that lurk in many corners of the internet.

Firstly, use a site that will give you access to a sellers details without having to be a member such as Cam-Trader for all Second Hand Cameras People intent on using fraudulent means to grab your money dont like these kinds of site because they cannot remain anonymous and therefore the risk of being caught by law enforcers is very high. People that are genuine sellers have no qualms about giving contact details. Make sure that to be a member of such sites, that the seller is validated and cannot place items for sale unless they are validated. This is a safety backup if things do go wrong and action needs to be taken against a seller.

Secondly, do NOT part with any money until you are totally satisfied that the seller is genuine, that you have the right answers to questions you asked, and that you are prepared to accept that the item IS as advertised. The typical fraudster will ask for money orders or cash transfers because they are virtually untraceable. Find sellers that have a proper outlet or have paypal accounts that are verified. Its easy to trace
these people if things do go wrong in the transaction and you will have a paper trail leading to the person should you need to take any legal action.

Ok, so now you can trust the seller, but, is the item he/she is selling exactly as advertised? Is it in the condition as stated, is the price a fair one for the item?

Don’t know? … well ask! Genuine sellers have no objection to answering questions about the item they are selling. Not sure if the images provided are of the actual item? Same answer, Ask! Watch out for the “stock photo” ads, they could just be lazy or they could be trying to hide a huge dent in the camera body. Ask for additional pictures if you are not satisfied. Ask if the images are of the actual item being sold.

Once you are happy that the item is as described, look at delivery costs. Some sellers will deliberately keep the item price a little lower and then overcharge for delivery of the item to make it appear a very good bargain. Again, if costs of delivery are not stated, ask before you commit yourself to buy. The ask yourself, could I go to my local outlet and buy this item for less than the total price including delivery?

Bear in mind that no person in business is likely to be giving an item away without making a small profit at least.

When buying Used photographic Equipment or any other Photographic Item, there are a few direct questions you can ask the seller to determine whether it is a good buy or not.

1) Why are you selling it? (if an individual)
2) Are there any scratches on the glass of the lens?
3) Does the camera have a shot counter ?
4) What year was it made?
5) Does it come with a case or bag?
6) Is it refurbished and do you give any guarantees?
7) What are your returns ploicy, terms and conditions?

Of course, when you ask questions you will need to know the technical specifications to ensure that the answers are correct. You can look up camera reviews and read them carefully. Alternatively take some guidance from a friend who knows something about photography and camera equipment.

If you intend spending some of your hard earned cash on Second Hand Cameras it is well worth taking the time to check out what you should be getting for your money. If you have doubts about a seller or the item they are advertising then walk away.

Remember this phrase… Buyer Beware, is the seller being fair?

There will be plenty of other items to choose from so whats the rush? If you believe that the seller is not
as he describes or his item is not described correctly, then look for a “Report this item to Admins” link like the one on Cam-Trader for all Second Hand photographic accessories

I hope that I haven’t put anybody off buying Used Photographic Equipment or any accessories, as this is a growing market where even the most basic amateur can get a lot of enjoyment from taking photographs.

Enjoy your hobby

John Jones
Joint CEO
Cam-Trader

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Tags: Cameras