1. Forum
  2. General Discussion | Introductions | Off Topic Forum
  3. Photography General Discussion
  4. What to look for when buying used lenses?

What to look for when buying used lenses?


13 years 5 months ago #5386 by One Wish
With lenses does it matter how many photos have been taken with it? I know to check the glass, but what else? And is there a way to check how many photos have been taken with the lens? I'm guessing no, but it can't hurt to ask.

Cheers!
Photo Comments
,
13 years 5 months ago #5393 by bhowdy
# of images taken is not a real concern, in my opinion. Things I would look for .... dust in the lens, front element, etc. scratches on the front element .... if the lens is a zoom .... make sure the focus ring works smoothly, without catching, etc.

I would be careful or avoid completely any lens that is no longer serviced by the manufacturer ... I mean serviced, not discussing warranty here. Eventually each manufacturer will stop servicing a lens model, so getting one repaired can be difficult.
Bob Howdeshell

"If I could tell the story in words, I wouldn't need to lug around a camera" ~ Lewis Hine
,
13 years 5 months ago #5402 by Screamin Scott
Make sure the aperture opens & closes properly, that there is no grinding feeling when the zooming or the focus rings are turned, & make sure there is no fungus growth inside the elements. As for the comment by bhowdy re: lenses no longer serviced by the manufacturer. I tend to disagree as there are many fine repair facilities other than the OEM ones. Scratches on the front element will have practically zero effect on your images unless it looks like someone took sandpaper to the lens. Scratches on the rear element is a different matter though. avoid scratches on the rear glass.. Also, make sure all functions of the lens are working properly (AF,metering)
Scott Ditzel Photography

www.flickr.com/photos/screaminscott/
Photo Comments
,
13 years 5 months ago #5421 by Tuscany
Good advice here
Photo Comments
,
13 years 5 months ago #5451 by Thomas S

Screamin Scott wrote: Make sure the aperture opens & closes properly, that there is no grinding feeling when the zooming or the focus rings are turned, & make sure there is no fungus growth inside the elements. As for the comment by bhowdy re: lenses no longer serviced by the manufacturer. I tend to disagree as there are many fine repair facilities other than the OEM ones. Scratches on the front element will have practically zero effect on your images unless it looks like someone took sandpaper to the lens. Scratches on the rear element is a different matter though. avoid scratches on the rear glass.. Also, make sure all functions of the lens are working properly (AF,metering)


I wonder, why scratch on rear matters but not so much front?

Thomas
Photo Comments
,

  1. Forum
  2. General Discussion | Introductions | Off Topic Forum
  3. Photography General Discussion
  4. What to look for when buying used lenses?

817.3K

241K

  • Facebook

    817,251 / Likes

  • Twitter

    241,000 / Followers

  • Google+

    1,620,816 / Followers

Show Me...

Visit 4wdtlak Forum
Saal

Latest Reviews

Nikon Zfc Review

Nikon’s retro-looking Nikon Zfc is anything but retro. Under its classic body is a host of features and amenities that make it a worthwhile compact mirrorless camera for 2024.

Apr 15, 2024
Canon EOS R50 Review

The Canon EOS R50 is one of the newest R-system cameras from Canon. Is it worth your money? Find out all the details you need to know in this comprehensive review.

Apr 10, 2024
Sony FE 70-200mm f/2.8 GM OSS II Review

The Sony FE 70-200mm f/2.8 GM OSS II is Sony’s flagship mirrorless zoom lens. As such, it’s loaded with features and has a top-shelf build quality that makes it a top pick!

Mar 27, 2024
Leica SL2-S Review

The Leica SL2-S is an attractive, premium mirrorless camera with photo and video specs that are sure to impress. And with the legendary Leica name, you know this camera exudes quality!

Mar 26, 2024
More Articles
Ikan

Forum Top Posters

Sponsored Imageimages2/mpb145x145sell.pngSponsored Imageimages2/50off.jpg
Sponsored ImageSponsored Image

Latest Articles

What is Blue Hour Photography?

Blue hour photography might not be as well known as golden hour photography, but it is every bit as good a time to create epic images of landscapes. Learn how in this quick tutorial!

Apr 17, 2024
Nikon Zfc Review

Nikon’s retro-looking Nikon Zfc is anything but retro. Under its classic body is a host of features and amenities that make it a worthwhile compact mirrorless camera for 2024.

Apr 15, 2024
5 Dog Photography Tips for Stunning Results

Moving from taking snapshots of your dog to creating beautiful images doesn’t have to be that difficult! Use the tips outlined in this dog photography guide, and you’ll get better results in no time.

Apr 15, 2024
FAQs About Acrylic Print Photos

Acrylic print photos are a beautiful way to display your favorite images. But they don’t come without some questions. Get all the answers you need about this medium in this guide!

Apr 15, 2024
Get All the Landscape Photography Inspiration You Need With These Simple Tips

Where do you get your landscape photography inspiration? Is it from masters like Ansel Adams? Or perhaps viewing art from other genres? We’ve got these and a few other sources for you to check out!

Apr 10, 2024
Canon EOS R50 Review

The Canon EOS R50 is one of the newest R-system cameras from Canon. Is it worth your money? Find out all the details you need to know in this comprehensive review.

Apr 10, 2024
Myth Busted: High-Quality Affordable Online Printing DOES Exist!

Too often, affordable online printing companies don’t meet your expectations of what a print should look like. But there are some choices that combine affordability with superb quality!

Apr 09, 2024
How to Use Self-Critique to Improve Your Photography

Self-critique is an important component of your journey to improving as a photographer. Use these simple tips about critiquing your work as a means to make faster progress with your art.

Apr 08, 2024
More Articles