There's an age-old debate about the importance of size. Now, if we can all get our minds out of the gutter for a minute, let's apply that to camera sensors and lenses, ok? Depending on what your preferred area of photography is, you'll get differing opinions about whether bigger is better everywhere you ask. Eventually, though, most photographers will admit that when it comes to sensors and lenses, there's no reasonable substitute for the big guns.
I think the more common problem among most photographers isn't the question of importance, but instead, a matter of affordability. Let's face it; when the price tags start showing 4 or even 5 digits to the left of the decimal, some of us can only shake our heads and wish. Fortunately, bigger and better doesn't really have to be out of reach for those of us in that boat. High-end gear lasts longer than entry-level equipment and buying used is a viable option if you choose the right dealer.
Let's take a look at full-frame DSLRs first. When Canon released the EOS 5D MkIII, hundreds of pros traded in their MkII's. That means there are a lot of 5D MkII's out there that might have developed some “character”, but are still in good working order. That's a full-frame, 21.1MP, Pro-level DSLR and you can pick one up for less than $700 right here.
For the Nikon fans, how about a D700 for about the same price? See how many are available here. Not quite the same resolution as the Canon, but good enough, and it's got that Nikon sensor!
Now, what about lenses? When you really need to reach out, you're going to have to spend a few bucks, but it doesn't have to mean taking out a second mortgage. How about some nice Canon L-Series glass? Check out these deals:
Canon EF 100-400mm f4.5-5.6 L IS USM Lens 100-400/4.5-5.6
Canon EF 28-300mm F3.5-5.6 L IS USM Lens 28-300/3.5-5.6
Canon EF 500mm F4 IS L USM Lens 500/4
Here are a few Nikons:
Nikon Nikkor AF-S 300mm F4 D ED SWM IF Lens 300/4 AFS
Nikon Nikkor AF-S 300mm f2.8 D ED SWM Lens 300/2.8 AFS
Nikon Nikkor AF-S 400mm f2.8 D ED IF SWM Lens 400/2.8 AFS
Compare the prices on the items above with what you'll pay for the new equivalent and you'll see what I'm talking about right away. Best of all, because you'll be buying from my favorite used gear dealer, you'll not only know exactly the condition of your purchases, you'll have a minimum 180-day warranty.
The point is, if you don't have the kind of funds necessary to get the new gear you want, there's no reason not to buy good quality used gear, especially when there's a dealer like UsedPhotoPro around. Check them out today and start getting your hands on some of the equipment you've been dreaming about.