You can get a camera that was top-of-the-line a few years ago for under $500. You just have to make sure you check it out well before you hand over the dollars - take a few photos first. Just because it's a few years old doesn't mean it isn't capable anymore.
I concur with the above comments. As for a specific camera, I am very happy with my Nikon D90. I got it because I had a Nikon film camera and wanted something my lenses would fit and be a semi-pro level camera without breaking the bank!
I'm absolutely loving my new Canon G12 - light enough to carry in a large pocket or bag, yet it has almost all the functions of the large cumbersome DSLR's. If you're looking for portability - this is it!!! I'm still learning about all the features.
I don't know about expensive cameras... I have an inexpensive Kodak and it takes just as good of photos as any expensive camera takes. I'm pretty happy with my images.
My first DSLR camera was a Nikon D40 I purchased in 2007 and I love, love, love it so much. The used ones are really reasonable right now. Some people think it doesn't have enough megapixels, but it really takes stunning photos. Unless you are making huge enlargements, the megapixels won't be a problem.
Recently I purchased a used Nikon D80 and it has been wonderful. It only had 1,200 shutter clicks on it. I wanted to be able to try some older lenses with it and I don't have a lot of $ to spend right now. I really like the photos it takes, but it's pretty heavy to lug around.
At my work I get to use a D5100 and a D90 and they are both really nice, but much more expensive. Right now I might save up for the D5100--it takes great shots, it's lightweight, easy to use, and it's really quick to focus. I might sell my D40 and D80 and then purchase the D5100. It's hard to decide because the D40 is my first love and still takes wonderful shots. I only have one lens without the motor so I wouldn't be in a pickle with the D5100. All my other lenses have the auto focus motor so they would work with the new camera.
Ahhhh, I'm babbling like crazy! To answer the original question...I was a hesitant about buying a used camera, but so far I've been very pleased I took the plunge! It really saved me a bunch of $ and it's fun to get new equipment.
@cathyzasa B&H ( http://www.bhphotovideo.com) is where I buy anything used from. They back what they sell, and have an easy return policy. I would NEVER buy camera gear (bodies, lenses) used off of ebay, to me it is just asking for trouble. They also carry a lot of refurbished equipment. I also believe Adorama might do the same.
I've bought one body (D80) and two lenses from B&H. One of the lenses had impact damage, and I returned it with no hassles, besides the inconvenience of my time taking it to the UPS store. The D80 had very low shutter actuations, and was in perfect condition and came with a Nikon branded battery.
Another thing is friends who also do photography. I just picked up my friend's old D200 body with grip for $350. All that's wrong with it is that the top LCD is busted, but I have no need for it as all the info is also in the viewfinder, and on the back LCD. He sent it to me to try out before I gave him money, which was awesome as I was worried it wouldn't shoot right.
So there's nothing wrong with used, if you're buying from a reputable company (like I said, I would only trust B&H or Adorama) or have a chance to personally try out the gear (and this means more than taking one shot...) before exchanging money. What's nice about used is you get the chance to own higher end bodies for a cheaper price, too.
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Recently I purchased a used Nikon D80 and it has been wonderful. It only had 1,200 shutter clicks on it. I wanted to be able to try some older lenses with it and I don't have a lot of $ to spend right now. I really like the photos it takes, but it's pretty heavy to lug around.
At my work I get to use a D5100 and a D90 and they are both really nice, but much more expensive. Right now I might save up for the D5100--it takes great shots, it's lightweight, easy to use, and it's really quick to focus. I might sell my D40 and D80 and then purchase the D5100. It's hard to decide because the D40 is my first love and still takes wonderful shots. I only have one lens without the motor so I wouldn't be in a pickle with the D5100. All my other lenses have the auto focus motor so they would work with the new camera.
Ahhhh, I'm babbling like crazy! To answer the original question...I was a hesitant about buying a used camera, but so far I've been very pleased I took the plunge! It really saved me a bunch of $ and it's fun to get new equipment.
I've bought one body (D80) and two lenses from B&H. One of the lenses had impact damage, and I returned it with no hassles, besides the inconvenience of my time taking it to the UPS store. The D80 had very low shutter actuations, and was in perfect condition and came with a Nikon branded battery.
Another thing is friends who also do photography. I just picked up my friend's old D200 body with grip for $350. All that's wrong with it is that the top LCD is busted, but I have no need for it as all the info is also in the viewfinder, and on the back LCD. He sent it to me to try out before I gave him money, which was awesome as I was worried it wouldn't shoot right.
So there's nothing wrong with used, if you're buying from a reputable company (like I said, I would only trust B&H or Adorama) or have a chance to personally try out the gear (and this means more than taking one shot...) before exchanging money. What's nice about used is you get the chance to own higher end bodies for a cheaper price, too.