i need some second-hand buying advice. pleaseeee..

in 2 weeks time i'm buying my first d-slr set-up, this however, doesn't mean i'm new to digital, just -being a student- none of the camera's i've been using are my own.

but now. i'm in a position to get myself kitted up.

this is how much i have: £1100 - or $2200 to you lot over the pond.

and this is what i want: canon 30D & grip, 17-55 IS 2.8, and a higher end flash-gun ,preferably a 550ex.

i'm not after advice about the stuff.
and i'm clear that it's guna need to be second hand.
but. is it possible?
US prices are cheaper, but it's a bit dodgy buying over the net, maybe i could convince the seller to put it onto ebay, as buy it now for me, that way i'm guarenteed security of my money/products, right?

i really don't want to have to wait any longer.

so, what do you think.
any comments are really really appreciated.
thanks guys!

I just saw someone say they bought a 30D from B&H for $999 for the body. You may be able to do it.

30D at amazon from adorma for $960

SuzyView wrote in post #3726615
I just saw someone say they bought a 30D from B&H for $999 for the body. You may be able to do it.

thanks for the response!
i checked it out, and you're right, they have the body for $999.99.
and i thought the shipping would be stupidly high. but it's $56.00 for 3-5 day to the UK.
and that's a new-price. i can't believe it - £525 !

thanks a lot.

anyone else got any input, like i said, it's really appreciated!

If you import from the US you may get caught by customs.

Have you checked www.camerapricebuster.​co.uk for UK prices?
The 30D is 549 at Bristol Cameras.

Try www.onestop-digital.com for lenses or Kerso (search for Ian on this site).

Phil B.

Bear in mind that the duty, VAT and courier fees usually add up to ~25% of the price you've payed to B&H (inc P&P) when you buy lenses. Camera bodies are slightly less as they only attract VAT (not duty). Also, most credit card companies (and Paypal) give you an exchange rate ~3% worse than the nominal pounds to dollars rate. It can still be good value, but be prepared for extra costs...

If i was you and with the knowledge i now have i would search for a man called Kerso (Ian) and ask him to give you a price for everything you want, you will have to ask for a 580ex instead of a 550ex probably though.

See the price he can give you.

If not then search eBay for LOCAL listings that you can see the item and use it before you purchase! i would never buy items as big as cameras, lenses, flashes without seeing the device first!

philb10 wrote in post #3727808
If you import from the US you may get caught by customs.

Have you checked www.camerapricebuster.​co.uk for UK prices?
The 30D is 549 at Bristol Cameras.

Try www.onestop-digital.com for lenses or Kerso (search for Ian on this site).

Phil B.

yes, i know about price buster, and kerso.
one stop digital has the 17-55 IS at £529, best price i've seen so far!
so thanks for that !

this is probably the wisest decision, i'll see what price i can get from him.
thanks for the advice!

i've realised this now, but thanks!
import tax is apparently the one to throw you.
thanks for mentioning it.

everyone's being really helpful i appreciate it.

it's starting to seem that if i want to get all that equipment for that price, i either need a miracle, or i'm guna have to go down to the 20D.

someone should just offer me all that for that price.
comeee on.
i'll look after it


anymore comment anyone?


ryan.

well if you have any spare cash check out the POTN strap, review in the equipment section!