New guy looking to upgrade

[Hawmaw]

Hi from a new guy.

I found this forum a few weeks ago and love looking at what you guys are doing and reading all the good advice.

I've currently got a Minolta Z2 which as you probably all know is just a p & s with a few more knobs to twiddle with. I bought it originally because I thought it would replace my compact 35mm and my 35mm SLR in one go as it has a long zoom. I've been happy with it for 2 years and have taken some ok photographs but now I want to go digital SLR.

I'm on a tight budget due to 3 young kids bleeding me dry so I intend to stick with a 350D or something similar. I've been looking at "evilbay" and I'm quite
surprised at the prices 2nd hand stuff goes for.

This morning (uk time) a used 350D with kit 18-55 lens and an
EF 55-200 f4.5-5.0 II USM plus a few bits and pieces went for £531 plus £14 p & p.


What's the point when Jessops in the Uk can supply a new 350D with kit lens for £449.49 !!

Surely buying new gives more piece of mind and backup.

Maybe this has been covered before but I'd like to hear what others think.

[Livinthalife]

I would go NEW, get a warranty! 55-200 isn't nothing great, so I don't see a need to pay all that much extra either. Get a new one with KIT lens, and maybe a 50 1.8....if you need a telephoto, look into the Sigma 70-300 APO DG, or Canon 100-300 USM

[Woolburr]

People seem to go insane when they see an item they are interested in on feebay....it isn't unusual to see a used item sell for more than a new item. It is amazing that people don't seem to do any research on what prices should be for new and used gear. There are better options available....you might want to do a search here on Kerso....seems he has done well by many UK buyers.

[Tyreman]

Sometimes..one can get VERY good used equipment at the 'ole camera shop for a very reasonable price with a warranty.
90days typically.
It can often be extended cheaply.
Some of this equipment is from the stores regulars who upgrade and the store knows the person using the equipment and so forth.
Not all shops have used equipment but some do.
A much better buy than on the 'bay 'net stops for the most part.
Other than that new.....if it can be affored is the other alternative.

"I'm on a tight budget due to 3 young kids bleeding me dry.."
end quote:confused:

[kevin_c]

If you buy from Jessops don't forget to buy online (it's usually cheaper) and use the discount codes available from this link:

http://www.camerapricebuster.co.uk/cat5.html

[John_B]

Hawmaw,
I also suggest you buy new.
For a number of reasons, like peace of mind (can be very important), warranty coverage, lack of wear and tear, etc.. etc...
Then after you are familar with your new camera with the kit lens you will be better at picking a new lens that fits what you want to shoot :)

Good luck with your choice :)

[Hawmaw]

Thanks for the advice guys. I always intended to buy new,I think!. I just can't get my head round people who are willing and eager to get ripped off!