Great used systems for under a grand

There are few people who would argue that photography is a cheap pursuit, but if you’re willing to forgo the excitement of breaking the seal on a factory-fresh box or peeling the film off the camera’s screen, you can reduce its cost considerably by buying second-hand gear. And thanks to reputable dealers like CameraWorld, London Camera Exchange, MPB, Park Cameras, Ffordes and Wex Photo Video, etc, who are all happy to buy and sell used photographic kit, you don’t have to get involved with bidding wars or purchase stuff from people who don’t understand the difference between mint condition and well-used gear (see page 24).

Instead, you can feel safe in the knowledge that you’re dealing with people who understand photography and the gear that they are selling. Most retailers give any second-hand kit a thorough check upon receiving it and often clean it before it’s sent out to a new owner. And, of course, if you buy from a retailer, the kit is covered by the Consumer Rights Act which means it must be as described and any faults mentioned. You also have the right to right to cancel your order and get a refund at any