Second hand cameras

[Sudhir Shivaram]

Buying a second-hand camera through OLX (or any marketplace) requires careful inspection and asking the right questions to ensure you don’t end up with a faulty device. Here’s a detailed checklist to help you:

Questions to Ask the Seller

1. Why are you selling the camera?

• This gives insight into whether it’s due to an upgrade or potential issues.

2. How old is the camera?

• Ask for the purchase date or invoice copy (if available).

3. What is the shutter count?

• The shutter count is like a car’s mileage.

• Most DSLRs/Mirrorless cameras have a shutter life (e.g., 100,000 – 500,000 shots).

• Less than 30,000-50,000 is good for a used camera.

4. Has the camera been repaired or serviced?

• Check if it had any major repairs, sensor replacements, or internal damage.

5. Any issues with the sensor, autofocus, or buttons?

• Some cameras may have autofocus lag, dead buttons, or sensor issues.

6. Are you including the original accessories?

• Battery, charger, strap, memory card, box, and manuals.

• Check if the battery life is still good.

7. Has the camera been exposed to water or moisture?

• Any history of water damage or fungus inside the lens?

8. Is there any warranty left?

• Some cameras have an extended warranty—ask for details.

Things to Check Physically Before Buying

📷 Body & Buttons

✅ Check the camera body for scratches, dents, or cracks

✅ Press all buttons and dials to ensure they are working

✅ Look at the LCD screen for scratches, dead pixels, or fading

📸 Lens & Sensor

✅ Check the lens mount – It should not be loose or wobbly

✅ Remove the lens and inspect the sensor for dust, scratches, or fungus

✅ Attach a lens and test autofocus + manual focus

🔍 Shutter Count & Image Quality

✅ Take a few test shots at different settings

✅ Check the images for spots, sensor dust, or banding

✅ Use a website like shuttercount.com or software to check shutter count

🔋 Battery & Performance

✅ Check if the battery holds a good charge

✅ Turn the camera on and off a few times to check boot-up speed

Red Flags to Avoid 🚨

❌ Very low price (too good to be true) – Possible scam or faulty camera

❌ Seller avoids meeting in person or refuses testing

❌ No original bill, missing accessories, or warranty papers

❌ Shutter count is extremely high (>100,000 shots)

❌ Dents, fungus in the sensor/lens, or damaged body