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Camera TypesFilm CamerasSecond Hand Cameras

5 Best Second Hand Cameras for Professional Photography 

Looking to start your professional photography journey without breaking the bank? PhotoCo Camera House in Australia offers some excellent second-hand options that deliver professional-grade results. Let’s explore these cameras in detail.

 

Overview of Featured Cameras

Given below is an overview of the 5 best second hand camera that you can use for professional photography: 

CAMERA MODEL TYPE KEY FEATURES PRICE CONDITION
Nikon D800 DSLR Full-frame with pro lens $2,150 Excellent
Canon TLB Film SLR Classic mechanical $395 Good
Nikon D80 DSLR Versatile zoom range $595 Excellent
Nikon FG-20 Film SLR Great Learner Camera $395 Good
Canon 70D DSLR Modern Features $695 Excellent

Let’s now take a look at each of these second hand cameras in detail to understand what would work best for you!

 

1. Nikon D800 with 24-70mm F2.8

Nikon D800 with 24-70mm F2.8

Technical Specifications of this product include:

  • Sensor: Full-frame 36.3MP
  • Included lens: Professional 24-70mm F2.8
  • Additional gear: MB-D12 battery grip
  • Shutter count: 38,593 (rated for 200,000)
  • Serial number: 8002420
  • Price: $2,150

This Nikon D800 package is the top item in PhotoCo’s current collection. The camera’s 36.3MP sensor captures detail that rivals current digital cameras. You’ll love its excellent dynamic range and low-light capabilities, which make it ideal for anything from studio portraits to landscape photography.

The integrated 24-70mm F2.8 lens merits special recognition. This professional-grade zoom has a steady f/2.8 aperture across its range, offering the image quality that clients expect.  The relatively low shutter count suggests plenty of life remaining in this body – especially considering Nikon’s typical 200,000-shot rating for professional bodies. 

Why the Nikon D800 Excels:

  • Professional-grade image quality
  • Weather-sealed construction
  • Excellent dynamic range
  • Robust build quality
  • Comprehensive professional feature set

 

2. Canon TLB with 50mm F1.8

Canon TLB with 50mm F1.8Technical Specifications of this product include:

  • Type: 35mm Film SLR
  • Lens: 50mm F1.8
  • Operation: Fully mechanical
  • Serial number: 122639
  • Price: $395

This classic Canon TLB represents the pure essence of photography. Its all-mechanical architecture means that no batteries are required for basic functioning, making it extremely dependable. The accompanying 50mm F1.8 lens (often known as the “nifty fifty”) provides superb low-light performance and attractive background blur.

For photographers who want to study the fundamentals or experiment with film photography, this camera provides an unparalleled educational opportunity. Its mechanical simplicity forces you to understand exposure basics, making it an excellent learning tool. 

Learning Benefits of the classic Canon TLB:

  • Develops fundamental photography skills
  • Teaches manual exposure control
  • Encourages thoughtful composition
  • Provides immediate feedback through film
  • Builds technical understanding

 

3. Nikon D80 with 28-300mm Lens

Nikon D80 with 28-300mm LensTechnical Specifications of this product include:

  • Sensor: APS-C
  • Included lens: 28-300mm zoom
  • Shutter count: 545
  • Serial number: 6030034
  • Accessories: Charger and strap
  • Price: $595

The Nikon D80 package offers incredible versatility. With just 545 shutter actuations, this camera body is nearly new. The 28-300mm lens has an impressive range, providing wide-angle vistas to telephoto wildlife photos in one package.

For photographers who need to cover a wide range of subjects without switching lenses, this combination is quite helpful. The camera is an excellent choice for prospective photographers wishing to advance their abilities due to its broad feature set and easy-to-use UI.

Versatility Features of the Nikon D80:

  • Extensive zoom range
  • Excellent handling
  • Comprehensive exposure controls
  • Built-in flash system
  • Multiple exposure modes

 

4. Nikon FG-20 with 43-86mm Lens

Nikon FG-20 with 43-86mm LensTechnical Specifications of this product include:

  • Type: 35mm Film SLR
  • Lens: 43-86mm zoom
  • Operation: Semi-automatic
  • Serial number: 3611850
  • Price: $395

The Nikon FG-20 is a fantastic starting point for film photography, with increased adaptability. The 43-86mm zoom lens allows for versatility in a variety of shooting conditions, and the camera’s semi-automatic functions assist bridge the gap between totally manual and current automatic cameras.

This model strikes an excellent balance between learning and practicality. You’ll find it particularly suitable for street photography, where its quiet operation and quick handling prove invaluable.

Notable Characteristics of the Nikon FG-20:

  • Lightweight design
  • Quick handling
  • Multiple exposure modes
  • Center-weighted metering
  • Reliable mechanical construction

 

5. Canon EOS 70D with 18-55mm Lens

Canon EOS 70D with 18-55mm LensTechnical Specifications of this product include:

  • Sensor: APS-C 20.2MP
  • Included lens: 18-55mm
  • Shutter count: 1,114
  • Serial number: 055022001704
  • Original packaging included
  • Price: $695

The Canon 70D represents modern versatility in this lineup. Its cutting-edge Dual Pixel AF technology is excellent for both still and motion pictures. With only 1,114 shutter actuations, this body provides dependable service for many years to come.

For daily photography, the bundled 18-55mm lens offers a flexible focus range. As your abilities improve, you’ll find the camera’s sophisticated features—particularly the flexible touchscreen and Wi-Fi connectivity—especially helpful.

Modern Features of the Canon 70D:

  • Dual Pixel AF system
  • Articulating touchscreen
  • Built-in Wi-Fi
  • Advanced video capabilities
  • Custom function controls

 

PhotoCo’s Quality Assessment Process

In order to show its commitment to quality, PhotoCo Camera House thoroughly inspects every used equipment. Every camera undergoes a thorough technical examination that examines every aspect of its operation, including its electrical and mechanical systems.

A comprehensive status report detailing the camera’s current condition and any unique characteristics is sent to customers. You may rest easy knowing that your investment is protected by the standard warranty coverage.

Additionally, the knowledgeable setup support enables photographers to become comfortable with their new gear right away, enabling them to start shooting. 

Each camera undergoes testing across four key areas:

  1. Cosmetic Condition 
    • Careful examination of exterior condition
    • Documentation of any wear marks
    • Assessment of viewfinder clarity
  2. Mechanical Operation
    • Testing of all moving parts
    • Shutter speed accuracy verification
    • Operation of all controls
  3. Optical Quality
    • Lens element inspection
    • Focus accuracy testing
    • Image quality assessment
  4. Functional Testing
    • Electronic systems verification
    • Light meter accuracy check
    • Autofocus performance evaluation

Choosing the Right Camera

When choosing between these excellent options, consider your specific photographic goals and working style. Consider these factors when choosing:

For Professional Work

  • High-End Need: Nikon D800 bundle
    • Superior image quality
    • Professional-grade construction
    • Comprehensive feature set
  • Versatile Option: Canon 70D
    • Modern features
    • Excellent video capabilities
    • User-friendly interface

For Skill Development

  • Traditional Learning: Canon TLB
    • Pure mechanical operation
    • Fundamental skill building
    • Reliable construction
  • Digital Learning: Nikon D80
    • Comprehensive features
    • Excellent image quality
    • Room for growth

Value Proposition

PhotoCo Camera House maintains strict quality standards for their second-hand equipment. Each camera comes with:

  • Thorough technical inspection
  • Detailed condition report
  • Basic warranty coverage
  • Expert setup assistance

Final Thoughts

These five cameras represent excellent value in the second-hand market. Each offers unique advantages:

  • The Nikon D800 for professional-grade imaging
  • The Canon TLB for pure photographic experience
  • The Nikon D80 for versatile shooting
  • The Nikon FG-20 for classic film work
  • The Canon 70D for modern capabilities

Choose based on your specific needs, budget, and photographic goals. Remember that PhotoCo’s rigorous testing assures consistent performance, regardless of your choice.

Each camera in PhotoCo’s range has been carefully chosen and rigorously tested to guarantee that it reaches professional standards. Whether you’re just getting started in photography or want to upgrade your professional gear, these cameras provide great value on the used market while still providing the performance and dependability required for serious shooting.  

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Condition Assessment

Every second-hand piece of equipment is reviewed, inspected and tested by our team. We categorise the following where relevant.

Cosmetic condition

Excellent, Good, Normal or Other

Mechanical condition

Excellent, Good, Normal or Other

Optical condition

Clean, Scratched, Fungus, Haze, Separation or Other

Functional condition

Fully functional, Small issue or Other

Includes Accessories

Yes or No