Where do I Purchase Used Camera Gear

Photography can quickly become an expensive creative outlet. One way to keep the cost down is by purchasing used camera gear.  As with anything used, you need to make sure you are going to a dealer who you trust and will return the gear if needed. As I have been getting back into shooting film, I have been finding myself looking at and purchasing more used camera gear.  I have looked at a lot of different used equipment dealers and here is a list of dealers I personally use.

1. KEH.com- I buy most of my used medium format gear from KEH.  They have very fair pricing and they grade the equipment very well.  They are one dealer I do not shy away from bargain. I have found there bargain level is equal to some mid levels from other dealers.  I also like that on used equipment they also give you a 14 day return policy. KEH is my first place.

2. B&H-  I am sure everyone knows of B&H in New York.  I buy most of my new equipment as well as some used from B&H.  I love going to the store and getting lost in the used department.  B&H like KEH does allow you to return used gear if you are not happy with it.  They offer a 30 day return.

3. Ebay and Craigslist- These are to outlets I have not purchased and camera gear from but I do know a lot of photographers who have.  On Ebay you want to make sure you are purchasing from a seller who has a strong rating. As I have been shooting more medium format and looking at large format, I  found myself watching listings on Ebay more but I still have not purchased anything.

As for Craigslist, you need to be careful.  I have sold gear in the past and I always made sure I would meet the buyer at a very public location.  I know most towns where I live, the police departments have parking spaces in front of the station for this use.  I have never purchased any camera gear on Craigslist and find myself steering away from it. 

4. Facebook group Used Camera & Photography Gear for Sale- There are a lot of Facebook groups for buying and selling camera gear.  I do belong to a few and I have sold some old lenses this way. My experience I have found everyone is very honest and you can get some great deals.

I hope this helps if you are in the market for used gear.  As I find new dealers I will be sure to let you know. Also please let me know if you have any questions or comments as to where you get used equipment.