I am looking for a SLR camera on eBay. What should i look for in the description?

Question

Some items just say camera body. Would i have to buy extra pieces for those or does that mean the same thing as just a camera?

Answer 1

My best advise to you is to not buy a used SLR on eBay. The scammers are many and the bargains are few. Instead go to your local camera shop. They will have a good selection of used cameras and gear that they have taken in on trade.

Since digital is sweeping the market, used film gear has gone way down in value. I purchased a used Canon at my camera shop at a price I couldn't pass up. I would never have been able to afford the camera as new, but as used it was a huge bargain. And my camera store stands behind it, if it breaks down for up to 6 months.

Answer 2

Look for "cametaauctions," "47st.photo," "completephotousa," "tri-state1" or some other reputable dealer with almost 100% positive feedback.

I've purchased from Cameta Auctions, who used to be a major mail order dealer. They seem to have decided to use eBay instead of print media, that's all. I mean, they have 166,944 positive feedback score with a 99.8 % rating... Counting repeat buyers, they have over 200,000 positive feedbacks.

As far as all the extra pieces, you usually don't need them. Get a camera body, a lens and a memory card. Consider an extended warranty if it's offered in some deals. That's all. Read the auction description and expect NOTHING that is not specifically listed. One good thing about Cameta, which seemed weird to me at first, is that they only complete the sale over the phone as you pay with your credit card. You can ask the salesman questions and they can be helpful. Watch out that you don't get overloaded with things you don't want, like a $20 tripod or a lens cleaning kit, but a live person will answer questions for you. I've bought from Cameta a few times and it was a very good experience. I use B&H in New York for most purchases, but I check prices and availability at Cameta Auctions, too.

Answer 3

And be careful of scams. The seller needs to tell youthat it is, specifically, in proper working order, and that it is the U.S. warranty version,and that they are an authorized camera retailer (or that it was originally purchased from one). If they aren't, you have no warranty.

Also check out www.resellerratings.com to checkup on them.

Or you could actually go to a camera store, buy new equipment with an actual warranty, and get to talk to people that can answer in depth questions for you, maybe even provide free photography classes.

Or is it worth a few bucks to take the risk that you'll end up with useless equipment? If the price you find online is 'too good to be true'... then it probably is.

Answer 4

camera body is just that. camera body, no lens. you would only need the lens if it says camera body. start out with a good standard lens such as 50mm (the view will be similar to what you see with the human eye (minus the wide angle view). or if you want a lens with a some range, you can go with a wide angle 28mm or lower, but 28 is standard wide and you can also get a telephoto lens as well, something that will get you some range.
if you have money just to buy one lens, go with a short telephoto lens. something around 28 to 75 mm. that should cover everything until you know what you are doing.

Answer 5

the camera body is just that, with no lens included. look for an enthusiast kit or a kit that includes extras like lens etc.