It’s no secret that photography can become quite expensive. The more you get into it, the more gear you need — and it really adds up. The good news is that buying secondhand cameras and gear is a great way to build your kit on a budget, without compromising on quality. You just need to know what to look for.
Here we’ll cover the benefits of buying secondhand, four tips for doing it safely, and why Ted’s Secondhand is a trusted choice.
Table of contents:
- Why should you consider buying a secondhand camera?
- 4 tips for choosing a secondhand camera safely
- Why Ted’s Secondhand Camera Service is a safe choice
- Browse our secondhand camera range
Why should you consider buying a secondhand camera?
Buying a secondhand camera offers several important advantages. Firstly, you can often acquire high-quality equipment at a fraction of the retail price — making it an excellent option for budget-conscious photographers, and potentially allowing you to access professional-grade gear that would otherwise be out of reach. If you're not sure which models are worth seeking out, our guide to the best digital cameras for photography in Australia is a great place to start.
Secondly, purchasing used cameras is a more sustainable approach to photography. By giving pre-owned gear a second life, you reduce electronic waste and minimise the environmental impact of manufacturing and disposal.
4 Tips for Choosing a Secondhand Camera Safely
Most cameras are built to last, but their value depreciates over time — meaning there’s always an opportunity to find a quality bargain. If you’re new to photography, the price difference could mean jumping from an entry-level DSLR to a more advanced camera much sooner than expected. Take a look at our roundup of the best DSLR cameras to see which models are worth upgrading to. Here’s what to look for:
1. Only buy with a warranty or return policy. Buying a secondhand electronic item is a low-risk purchase if it comes with a warranty or a return policy. The manufacturer’s warranty won’t transfer on an onward sale, but reputable secondhand dealers will offer their own warranty period for peace of mind.
2. Research the seller’s reputation. Check reviews and feedback before buying. Avoid sellers with no reviews or history — do the groundwork to avoid disappointment and unexpected technical surprises.
3. Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true. If a camera is priced significantly below market value, it may be a scam, faulty, or not genuine. Research the reasonable asking price for the model you want before committing.
4. Make sure it comes with everything it needs. At minimum, ensure the camera includes a charger and battery. If you’re buying a DSLR or mirrorless camera, confirm it comes with a compatible lens — or factor the cost of one into your budget. With everything included, you’ll be ready to shoot as soon as the battery is charged.
Why Ted’s Secondhand Camera Service is a Safe Choice
Ted’s Secondhand ticks all of the boxes above. With over 50 years of experience in selling and reselling camera gear, our team thoroughly checks and tests every secondhand item before it goes on sale. All secondhand cameras and accessories come with a 12-month warranty For added peace of mind beyond the warranty period, it's also worth considering camera insurance to protect your gear against accidental damage, loss, or theft., and we offer a 14-day exchange policy if the gear isn’t quite what you were after.
With stores across the country, buying and returning secondhand gear is straightforward — simply bring any return to your nearest Ted’s Cameras store and we’ll take care of it.
Now that you know what to look for, it might be time to upgrade your kit without draining the bank account. Our staff are knowledgeable and happy to help you find the right camera for your needs.
Browse our secondhand camera range
Browse Ted’s full secondhand camera and equipment range, or pop into your nearest store to speak with our team today.
Once you're set up, check out the camera accessories every photographer needs to complete your kit.
Are Second Hand Cameras Worth It?
The short answer: yes — second hand cameras are absolutely worth it for most photographers. Modern cameras are built to last, and a well-maintained used body from a reputable seller can perform identically to a brand-new one at a significantly lower price point.
Here's why buying secondhand makes sense:
- Depreciation works in your favour — cameras lose value quickly after purchase, meaning you pay far less for equipment that still delivers excellent results.
- Proven reliability — older models have established track records, and any common faults are already well-documented online.
- More budget for lenses — since lenses hold their value and matter more to image quality, saving on the body frees up funds where it counts most.
The key is buying from a trusted source that inspects and grades gear honestly — which is exactly what Ted's Secondhand does.
Best Used Cameras to Buy in Australia
Not sure which model to look for? These are some of the best used cameras consistently worth buying on the secondhand market in Australia:
- Sony A7 III — a full-frame mirrorless workhorse with excellent autofocus, widely available used at compelling prices.
- Canon EOS R6 — outstanding image stabilisation and autofocus make this a top used buy for hybrid shooters.
- Nikon Z6 — a well-rounded full-frame mirrorless option with strong low-light performance.
- Fujifilm X-T4 — the best used camera for those wanting an APS-C mirrorless with beautiful film simulations.
- Canon 5D Mark IV — a proven DSLR still delivering professional results, now at very accessible secondhand prices.
Browse Ted's current secondhand stock to check availability and grading on these popular models.
Second Hand Cameras Near Me: Shop Ted's In-Store or Online
Looking for second hand cameras near you? Ted's Cameras has physical stores across Australia — including locations in Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, and Western Australia — so you can inspect secondhand gear in person before you buy.
Every used camera at Ted's is assessed, graded, and priced by our experienced staff, giving you confidence whether you shop in-store or online. Can't make it to a store? Our full secondhand range is available at teds.com.au with detailed condition descriptions so you know exactly what you're getting.
Use our store locator to find your nearest Ted's Cameras, or browse secondhand cameras online and have your gear delivered Australia-wide.