How to Buy a Used Camera Lens

You can find all sorts of used lenses for your SLR camera, but make sure you have the right mount for your camera body.

Buying a used lens for cameras that allow interchangeable lenses is as easy as checking your local camera shop, flea market or an online auction website such as eBay, Yahoo! Auctions, or uBid. But make sure you know a little bit about lenses before purchasing.

Types

Lens mounts for cameras vary from brand-to-brand. Consult your camera manual to make sure the used lens you are buying fits properly. You may want to bring your camera with you if you are buying from a photography store.

Inspection

Lenses can become unusable due to scratches and the growth of mold inside the lens glass. Always inspect a used lens for defects.

Online Auctions for Lenses

Online auction sites are a great source for lenses, but you should try to buy only from users who provide specific information about the lens's condition. Ask the seller for specific details regarding the condition of the lens. If they can not provide you with the information, you should probably consider purchasing from a different seller.

References

• MyPentax.com: Fungus and Camera Lenses
• Cornell.edu: Alphabetical List of Camera Mounts