Let's face it, boys and girls; photography isn't a cheap hobby or an inexpensive career choice. Like most technology-driven pastimes, it can deplete your bank account in a hurry. That's why many of us make statements like, “I wish I had a second camera body,” or “Man, I'd really like to have a better lens.” Particularly for those talented amateurs trying to turn pro, equipment additions and upgrades can really impede progress. Because your friends at PhotographyTalk want to help you make that transition a reality, we're bringing you another list of gear that you can actually afford, from a source we trust.
Second Bodies
A second camera body is a great investment, especially for anyone shooting events, weddings, sports and similar active genres. The kind of investment you're often looking at, however, can be something of a deterrent. For those with a need but not a lot of spare capital, a good used or refurbished camera body is a great choice.
Here are a few Nikon full-frame bodies for less than $1,000 you might want to consider:
Nikon D3 12.1MP Digital SLR Camera Body
Nikon D700 12.1MP Digital SLR Camera Body
Nikon D700 12.1MP Digital SLR Camera Body
Canon shooter? Step up to a full-frame, 50.6 megapixel body for about $1,000 less than retail:
Canon EOS 5DS DSLR Camera Body 50.6MP
Better Lenses
You already know that better glass is almost always the best choice when it comes to upgrading. The problem, again, is the tremendous price tag. Once again, a great solution is buying quality-tested, guaranteed used lenses for hundreds of dollars less:
Canon EF 300mm f4 L IS USM Lens (MINT CONDITION!)
Canon EF 70-200mm f2.8 L IS USM Lens
Canon EF 70-200mm f2.8 L IS USM Lens
Canon EF 70-200mm f4 L IS USM Lens
Nikon Nikkor AF 70-180mm f4.5-5.6 D ED Micro Lens AF
Nikon Nikkor AF 80-200mm f2.8 D ED Lens w/Tripod Mount
Tripods
We don't have to explain the value of a good tripod, either, so I won't bore you with that. This time, let's take a look how you can outfit yourself with some of the best, by purchasing like-new, refurbished equipment. Have a look at the selections of tripods available with these well-known brand names:
Supplemental Lighting
Whether you're in the studio or out in the woods, there's going to be a time when you're going to need to shed some extra light on your subject. Here's another area where refurbished gear can save you a bundle without sacrificing quality. Here are just a few examples:
These are just a few examples of how buying used or refurbished photography gear can get you outfitted with what you need at far less cost than retail. The key is to buy from a source that you can trust. That's why we recommend shopping at Used Photo Pro, where you'll find tested, honestly-rated used gear with the best warranty around. For the best in refurbished gear, you can't beat our friends at Roberts Camera. Shop both of these sites, compare and get the gear you need at prices you can afford.