Bought my husband his first "real" camera at KEH. It was "bargain" grade but was actually in great shape. Years later and the camera still works and he takes it everywhere.
I think what I need to do, because I haven’t really sold most of the old cameras I used to own unless I really hated them, is wrap them up in bubble wrap, put them in a cardboard box on my porch, get somebody to ring my doorbell for me, and then pretend I’m getting a new camera so I can enjoy the experience of unboxing them and shooting with them for the first time again. There is something magical about approaching old cameras with fresh eyes, but you need that spark of excitement so you’re not focusing on the negatives. (Unless it’s film negatives, amiright?) Great shots! Love seeing some shots and footage from the archives, too!
Based on my experience, they’re very conservative with their grading. Everything I’ve ever received from them has been in quite a bit better shape than I had expected, given the grade KEH had assigned to it.
That goes on the selling end too. I've sold one body and several lenses via KEH and they definitely undergrade equipment based on their own examination. On the one hand, I could likely make a lot more selling old gear myself. OTOH I don't have to deal with scammers; the sell prices aren't terrible; and I'd be confident that kit I buy from KEH has been very well vetted.
I have to agree with you: there is something about the older DSLRs that is enchanting in a way I have yet to encounter with my EOS R5 and all those hi-tech R lenses. All I had was a 5D Mark II and the 24-70mm f/2.8 and I got some incredible photos with that set up. Sometimes I wonder what those exact same photos would look like with my new system, which is tack sharp. On the other hand, I shot film for over 15 years and I have no nostalgic desire to go back to that, just the 5D (which I stupidly sold - mine was in better condition than this one 👀 lol).
I know what it feels to have sold your 5d ii . I encountered the same and i bought another but better one. Now i will never sell it. Try to buy one for keeps. Good luck
My two "go to" places for purchasing used gear is always KEH and Robert's Camera. I think what is so great about these two companies is that they list their gear properly AND have great return policies. In the last 20 years I have had to only twice return an item. I don't recommend buying use if you don't know the gear, but buying used SAVES lots of money!!!
@@Tap-a-roo it’s priced higher because you get a guarantee meaning it doesn’t benefit them to try and screw you over with a faulty item. Consider the extra cost as insurance that you don’t get when you buy from many other places.
@@Tap-a-roo - Remember that KEH has to make a profit to stay in business. They pay wholesale for our stuff and sell it at what they can get for it (retail). For example...a Canon 5Dll is ex condition sells for $321. If I sold them mine, they would pay $138. We can always sell our own gear at retail (the going price) but it takes time and money to meet up with potential buyers. If we take their offer for our camera gear, we are taking less for the convenience of letting them do the work and selling it to their customer.
Omar thank you for such a great video, I hope your camera is still going strong. I just recently ordered one of the "Bargin" 5D Mark II cameras and not such good luck. It was missing the eyecup, interface side doors and had over 300k shutter count. It had a bunch of specs on the view finder and one spot of dust on the sensor that really stood out. It was well used as far as the finish. I contacted KEH via chat online and they are doing an exchange and adding notes to make sure the verify the exchange has the eyecup and doors on it. Hopefully the next one will be great. I agree with you completely that they need more info on the camera you are buying and pictures would be an awesome addition to their website.
This is great, you are ON! Have done business with KEH several times myself, in the middle of a trade right now. I agree about shutter count AND USA model!! Will share this with our group!
In the last month I purchased 3 cameras from MPB. All in great shape and the shipping packaging was great. The pictures on the website are the actual camera being purchased. The shipping experience wasn’t perfect but overall a recommendation.
Recently bought a Fuji X-Pro2 from MPB for around half the price when new - this is a camera that I was never sure I'd like and so would never have bought new. So glad I bought it. With a 35mm f/2 it has quickly become my favourite carry around camera. Buying used is a great way of trying cameras you might not be quite 'sure of'.
Love KEH, but MPB is also great. And they do show each specific camera/lens so you can visually inspect it. They also let you setup a notification for when a particular camera body or lens becomes available. I SO wish KEH would do this, because if I'm looking for something a little more rare it sucks to have to go check every day for it.
I find MPB to be kind of a rip off. They're extremely expensive for used gear. But, to each their own. Agree that it is better to have pics of the item for sale.
@@matthewwells1606 I think it probably depends on what's being bought. I pay sales tax on KEH purchases but don't on MPB, and usually I find the prices to be within spitting distance of each other for comparable quality. I like that KEH offers a lot of vintage gear - I've bought some pristine medium format film lenses through them. I like that MPB packs their stuff with 0 plastic - all paper and cardboard packaging. I like them both! :)
@@matthewwells1606 Not sure what you've been looking for, but in things I've searched for lately, mpb prices have been 15-20% lower than KEH. For example, right now I'm looking at Canon EF 135mm f/2 lenses, used. It's about $569-649 on mpb. KEH has them $687-792. Both do a nice job describing what you'd be getting...
KEH has a "Wish List" link on the pages I see for cameras. I don't know if it does email notifications too, but I assume it does, (I have not used that feature of their site yet)
Nicely done! The issue of click count I believe is not an accurate "wear" indicator for any camera that has video capability. When someone records video there's a built in limit because of the heat it generates. That heat degrades the components in the camera's tight and sealed body. That video, whether a second or 30 minutes counts as ONE shutter actuation. For the beefy cameras body, like a D700, a 5D or the other pro models, camera mechanics have told me that replacing a shutter isn't so difficult or expensive, not including the manufacturer's service centers.
I just packed my 5D Mark 3 to ship to KEH for trade-in. Seeing your video, I really got emotional. I think over time we forget how close and happy we were when we got that camera. Your video helped me realize that love once again ! Now I need to reconsider if I really should sell it for an R6.
So awesome! I just did my first trade in with them and picked up a canon 135 f2 for a great price. Experience was so easy. It’s good to note they also have a 180 day warranty for most grades (I think all but ugly). Love your videos!
As always hilarious? Bravo Omar. I did own the Canon 5D 2 camera and it was my first full frame too, and yes I used it for many shots and later sold and purchased the Nikon D810. Now I even have the Nikon D850 and two Fujifilm's XT3 and Xt100 Love all the cameras.
Oh this one hurt! In a good way... In a "I wish I didn't sell this exact Camera + Lens combo but at the same time I am okay with it for now and lets watch Omar make me feel cool for being included in the proud ex-canon fanboy club" :) I always thought that the Mark II has the best body "shape" out of all 5D's. Not too soft but not too edgy. And everytime I discover my old 5D MkII files with the 35mm F2 IS I don't think "oh another photo that looks outdated today". No, they always look good and professional.
....I'm actually working on a video now....where I'm selling some of my gear....Sponsored by KEH 😂😂😂 (Legitimately selling it tho. I have WAY too much gear)
Used to buy from KEH about a decade back when I was in the US on a regular basis. BGN was my go to category, 90% of the time the gear was in great shape. I'd have to check if I ever went ugly :)
This was also my first full frame digital camera ever. It served me well! The reason I sold it is that I got a D800E and saw the difference in dynamic range and high ISO performance. If you install a CFW on this thing (Magic Lantern), you get massive specs boost like video autofocus pulling, dual ISO, and HDR modes, full sensor readout 5.6K RAW video, and a bunch of other crazy stuff!
Got one myself a few months back. Incredible camera. Such a bargain, too. Probably because it comes with none of the modern conveniences of cameras today. It feels like a film camera that just happens to be digital.
I really love the subreddit r/photomarket, which is where I buy almost all of my used gear because I can get some info from the person who previously owned the camera, learn about quirks and such. Of course, KEH won't scam you, but that is definitely possible when buying from Reddit.
I just bought a Canon 1DX in bargain condition from KEH that arrived in the mail today. It has some scuff marks on the plastic that are superficial. The LCD looks perfect. Autofocus is fast and accurate. I photographed a blank sky at f22 and the sensor is clean - no dust spots. I was nervous about the shutter actuations, but I checked and the number is
Same for me, the Canon 5D Mark II was my first ff camera but I still have it despite switching over to Fujifilm, that's how much I love this camera. Thanks and have fun!
5D2 was also my 1st full-frame. It served me well for a few dozen weddings & other events, but it had trouble focusing in low-light, even with flash. I mostly used my 24-105L & 70-200L f/2.8 lenses. But in low light I used the Sigma 50mm f/1.4 lens, which helped.
About 2 months ago I purchased a Fujifilm 100-400mm from KEH. They judged to be "Excellent" condition. It was well packed, and I could not tell it from new. This pleasantly surprised me. I will definitely buy from them again. PS. I owned a Canon 5D years ago, it was great! Don't blow up your camera with aftermarket batteries ;)
I’ve bought most of my gear used over the years and it’s pretty good from a “bargin” lens from KEH (Canon EF-M 18-55) which works well, as well as few lens from Adorama & MPB to my Canon M100 refurbished direct from Canon. You can save a good amount of money this way if done right. MPB shows the shutter count on the DSLRs.
TO OMAR: I just found your channel, enjoyed your presentation style (and facial expressions), and your demonstration (and points about KEH). Subscribed and will look at more of your videos.
Can't go wrong with a 5D mk2. I've still got mine, and just love the images it produces. There's deffo something about those old cameras. Boooya! Here in the UK we have MPB that sells used cameras, but they actually have the image of the camera you're buying.
I did business with KEH back in the late 1990s -early 2000s. I've just gotten back into photography after about a 15 year break. I've been trading off my older film (medium format and 35mm) the past month or so for updated Nikon DSLRs and lenses. I've traded roughly $3K worth of gear this past month and have been very satisfied with my transactions. I still have more gear to trade and it will all go to KEH. Glad you had a good experience with them also. New subscriber here! :)
In Europe we have MPB that does the same thing. It shows actual, high res pictures of every camera and lens they sell. Very nice feat. I believe the two companies are related, even, but could be wrong.
Outstanding! What a bargain! 😄 That Camera was an iconic release by Canon. Whilst the subsequent Mark III and Mark IV releases were not as revolutionary, more evolutionary! The Mark III was a good camera, and so is the 5D4, but they could have/ should have been much more?! I own the 5d4, and why Canon only went with a UHS-1 SD card, is beyond me? And not offering any in camera crop like the 5Ds / 5DSr, was a loss. Anyway, I digress Follow up video on how you getting along with your ‘new’ camera is in order! Stay safe and Healthy! 👍✌🏻😀📷
I bought a used 6D and love it. Full frame and was the right price instead over paying for a camera because it is new. Yeah. Haven't bought new for a long time.
I bought my used 6D from a student at Yale. The strap reeked of marijuana. It still has an essence whenever I put the camera up to my face, years later...
I’ve had good luck with most KEH purchases as well. Wouldn’t hesitate purchasing bargain rates items there. I agree on old cameras. I bought an original 5d a while ago and I actually really like it even though I don’t need it at all. I think it’s limitations in IQ actually HELP make it “filmic”. It simply does not have the dynamic range to make the image flat. Sorta like slide film.
I still have my old 5d Mk2. The good ole 6 hour battery life days. Don't forget the first thing you do with a 5d....load up Magic Lantern firmware on it
There’s something magical about your first real camera that you love. I may sell and trade my future cameras but I will never sell it get rid of my fuji xt2. Holding on to that forever.
I've bought a few lenses from KEH and am always impressed by the condition. I think their ratings are VERY conservative. I wouldn't hesitate to buy a "bargain" piece of gear from them. Everything I own would be lucky to get rated "ugly"
Good to see a fellow 973er rate KEH. I’ve seen quite a few photog influencers for lack of better word all say sponsored by them but I like to get back to SLR (film) again just for nostalgic reasons. So don’t want to spend much on a body and glass. Still got film from when photoplus occurred so like go use it before it goes bad.
I've purchased a number of used cameras from KEH, B&H, and MPB and have never had a problem. I do, however, always opt for those rated Excellent. A few years ago I traded in an old Nikon D7000 with around 50,000 shutter actuations. It had the usual slight usage scars but was in very good condition overall. When KEH listed it they commented that the flash mount showed use or some such term which made me chuckle as I never so much as shot a single flash shot with the camera and the mount was in pristine condition. Very reassuring to see that they erred on the safe side!
Wow that guy at 05:39 almost looks Life Like 🤣🤣 That one reason I like Robert's cameras a bit more than KeH is when they take in a used camera Robert's takes several photos showing the actual condition of the camera in the listing. But you did really luck out on the condition of that bargain camera on KeH. Great video.
I wanted to get a full frame camera and gave KEH a try. Got a bargain 5D Mark III for the price you paid. Little bit higher shutter count and some scuffs on the bottom. But it works great! So happy ordered a Canon 24-105 L F4 rated as excellent and would have to agree.
I understand what you're talking about. When I feel like going out for some all day shooting, regardless of all my cameras.... I always grab my trusty 7D Mark II.
That is really good to know! I have bought and sold from them for a few years as well, and I avoided every trying a "bargain" rated model. In credible. These people have cred.
Hi Omar, just here to say that if you didn't noticed, maybe there is something in the sensor, in the video you can see like a fluff in the bottom-middle of the image! Also, it's great to see that you re-own your old camera! Great video as always :D
That's so funny Omar... I just was online with KEH...thinking about selling or/trading some older Canon stuff. One of my items was my Canon 5Dll. I shot many weddings with it (actually starting the digital days with a Canon 10D)... and their offer was $84 for bargain or $138 for excellent. So you can pretty well see what their mark-up is!
Yet another excellent video!! I had a 5dmk2 and loved that camera...many many photos taken together... Kinda miss it now... I'm a big fan of buying used gear, thanks for your video and taking a chance on a bargain camera! Cheers
I just sold some gear to MPB. Getting some very much needed glass to complete my ( new to me ) Workhorse kit. I like both KEH and MPB , but really like that MPB takes pictures of the actual product being purchased.
I inherited one of these camera from my father in law, mint condition less the 5k shot with the original 24-105 F4L and a 16-35 2.8L. It was his puppy! I bought an CF to SD adapter and use a couple of Toshiba WiFi ad cards. This camera can RT hold itself very well in 2022!
KEH is a great place to buy used equipment, but a lousy place to sell to. That is not a paradox. I've bought "bargain" equipment from them that had virtually zero wear indications. One Mamiya RZ67 had a wind wear issue that only people very familiar with them would know about...but KEH had no problem taking the camera back. I bought another from them that was excellent.
Have bought many lenses and cameras from KEH. They are fantastic and stand behind their products. If you find something wrong with it they will immediately exchange it, if they have another, or refund with no problems. They have fantastic customer service. Yeah, their Bargain grade is usually really good, they are super conservative on their grading and it is highly appreciated.
This is very informative! I buy my used gear from MPB because they show the picture of the actual camera you buy. If/when KEH makes that change it will be huge!
In the uk we mpb which I use. They have photos of everything they sell. I’ve had very good results buying and selling. It’s a must to see what you are buying I would have thought!
I got my 5dmk2 Brand new from Calumet between 2007 and 2010 not sure the exact year, Still use mine as my Main camera. I have always had great experiences with KEH, from my LIke new minus M7 that practically looks new!, to recently a great Fuji X-M1 which was not new looking but super clean!!!.
I agree you are right on "old " cameras. I have a Canon EOS 20D. Thing is built like a tank. Takes descent enough pictures for me. Since I am a landscape photographer, if something happens to the 20D, not the end of the world.
I'm shocked that was a bargain grade. Now that made me feel like they do care about the photographer who is getting their products, not just to make a sale. I want a mirrorless camera, one day if I'm lucky (Bad Health) maybe I can end up with a bargain camera and lens. Thanks
I went through two Canon 5D Mark II bodies, I still have the second one and occasionally pull it out. I like you love the nostalgic feel to it, for some reason my black and whites just come out the right way. It's a nice compliment to my Fuji XPro2. I should get the sensor cleaned and get out and do some long exposures!
I bought a Leica Type 113 from KEH. It don’t come in a bag! The camera was nicely wrapped in bubble wrap with the battery and charger laying in the box.
Usually it's 180 days but often at end of year will make it 365 days. IMO if you are looking at older digital may be worth it to wait until that time of year to get a good warranty on something that may have issues.
KEH is here in Atlanta. They are my go too. All my gear from there has been exceptional. I have got great cash for some of my gear too They are indeed a life saver for me..
I swear i put this camera i own for sale. Once i watched this i went and removed it..... i will still keep it. I love this camera and i think i will regret. Thank you omarrrrr. So nice watching your video's.
Tried doing a trade of my RP and 24-240 lens and get credit for a LN R6. The process was easy and the way they ship is fantastic! However, seems like a lot of these sites(like mpb) are buying gray market new cameras and selling them as LN because they have a very hard time getting them, otherwise. I ended up returning the R6 to KEH and just bought a refurb direct from Canon and saved a couple hundred bucks. It's hard to get mad at KEH because Canon stopped using them as an authorized reseller and they were doing full 1 year warranties up to the end of 2021. With mpb, they show you pics of the actual camera. Interestingly enough, if they had a camera that was in Excellent condition, I'd enter the serial number into the Canon registration page and it was good. I could register it if I bought it. If it were LN, the serial number would be blocked on the Canon website, likely meaning it was also gray market. Just an FYI...
it's a bit of a gamble in my experence; I got a XF14mm F2.8, a Minolta 7C rangefinder and Minolta Maxxum 700SI+a couple lenses, all bargin. The Fuji lens and the rangefinder were out of box basically new, I'm impressed with the rangefinder given how old it is at 60+ years old, the SLR was in rough shape and the plastic of the body was partly broken and the lenses needed basic TLC
I still shoot with a 5Dii. I had it for so long, that I guess it’s cool again. Same for the clothes that I wear, which keep going in and out of fashion (I got my big jeans Cross Colours ready!).
