Re: used digital slr bodies

Steven Green wrote:

> I am shopping around for a digital SLR. I may wait till fall and see
> what the new models are, but I am considering picking up a used body
> to get me started ... eventually I want a camera in the Canon 5D
> category, but may consider something less to get started.

I'm not sure of what level experience you have with dSLRs so I might
wrongfully assume this is going to be your first purchase.  If this is the
case, it might be better for you to buy a cheaper new dSLR and get
familiar
with what functions you really need and want.  You have great choices from
both Nikon and Canon at the moment.  If your heart is set on the 5D you
would be better waiting till Canon announces the new replacement model,
which will drop the value of the 5D to sub $1,000 prices.  If you want
Nikon
you can get a D200 really cheaply now.

> I purchased camera gear from eBay in the past, I have some Contax
> lenses for my Aria and a Mamiya TLR that I have been happy with, but
> I am much more wary of purchasing a digital camera from eBay because
> I am more concerned about the condition of the digital sensor. It
> seems to me that the mechanical film cameras seemed more bulletproof.

Again, this falls under your experience level.  You have to know what to
look for and what questions to ask.  As for eBay, the same thing goes. 
You
have to know how to read between the lines and know how to find a trusted
seller.

> Any thoughts or experiences purchasing used digital bodies?

Buy extremely low and sell high after 18-months of use.  The goal is to
make
a few bucks or break even after you get your use out of the dSLR.

> Anything to look for?

Just good equipment at bargain prices.





Rita