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DPChallenge Forums >> Hardware and Software >> buying used/previously owned lenses
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 05/24/2004 10:01:26 AM · #1
Hi,

Is there a good web resource i can check out if I plan to purchase used/previously owned canon lenses ?
I just discovered a shopping mall full of these used camera shops . . . but i want to make sure I won't end up wasting money by trying to save money .

i need tips on how to check lenses , what to look out for , etc.

thanks

Message edited by author 2004-05-24 10:22:52.
 05/24/2004 10:18:14 AM · #2
If you live in the UK try Jessops www.jessops.com/usedequipment

You can't buy online but they will send to the nearest Jessops store for free or send to you for a price.

They rate their products on how 'used' they are and price accordingly.

Not tried them yet but they are a large company so I would give them a go if they had what i wanted.
 05/24/2004 10:09:23 PM · #3
It is best to try them on before buying. Bring your camera and laptop, if possible.

Check the lens itself:
- look out for scratches or markings on the body or glass (both front and rear element), look out for unusual stuff *inside* the lens (e.g. fungus), etc.
- make sure that the zoom and focus rings are smooth and operational

Test the lens on your camera:
- make sure the camera recognises the lens (e.g. no Err 99)
- use DOF preview function to ensure that the aperture blades stop down properly from wide all the way to the smallest f-stop
- if the lens has IS, make sure that it works
- shoot a few test shots at various focal lengths and various apertures (always include wide open and f/8 in your list); test on sharp, contrasty objects like the price tags or lettering on a lens so that you have a rough idea on sharpness. Use fast shutter and flash to eliminate the possibility of camera shake while testing.
- if possible, check for sharpness throughout the frame (e.g. to look out for problems like the lens being sharper at one edge and softer at the other)

Hope this helps,

:)atwl
 05/24/2004 10:57:43 PM · #4
Funis is HUGE! You usually can't tell just by looking at the lens. Always bring your camera like bayonic said... and your laptop (although you may look pretentious its worth it when you're talking about hundreds of dollars).

Look for the pale green or purple circle in the center of your photo. Shoot against white or light grey solid background.

I think buying used lenses is a good idea. I have some 10 year old Manual Nikkor lenses that I use for Macro photography that make these new plastic lenses feel like total crap. I believe the average quality of glass has peaked (Although I can only speak for manual Nikkor lenses).

Don't get me wrong... you can still buy nice manual lenses that rival the classics but dollar for dollar you'll be better off buying used from a reputable dealer.
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