Which used digital camera should I look for?

Question

I only take a few pic a month of my kids and such, so I don't need a fancy camera. I am looking to purchase a used one and need to know which one is best? I am only spending $40 max. I don't want a cheap one with a ton of problems. I know there are some decent ones somewhere...

Thanks!

(Don't tell me not to go cheap unless you are treating...:) )

Answer 1

Interesting dilemma you have there. As a photographer, I must admit you're in a bit of a pickle. But alas! There is hope!



In a day and age where digital cameras are a dime a dozen, I am going to make what may be considered, a brazen suggestion. Though you might be able to find yourself a used digital camera online (ebay?) for under 40$, more than likely you will be purchasing something obsolete, damaged, or with poor image quality.



My suggestion, is to pick up a Kodak or Fujifilm DISPOSABLE camera (Oh yeah, I went there). For occasional use, disposable cameras offer great flexibility, decent image quality, and more importantly, are cheap. Why buy a used low-quality digital camera when you can get better results from something you can repurchase whenever the need arises? Plus, being on film, your image quality will be far superior to using a digital camera with a 3-5MP (Tiny) sensor and horrible optics.



Anyways, I use a Canon 5d Mark II and a Nikon D300s with various lenses, CS4, stands, lights, filters, extenders, etc... I'd still go the film route for occasional shots if I were on such a budget.



Hope that helps.

Answer 2

There aren't any decent compact digital cameras for that price. The recommendation to buy a disposable camera with film in it is probably your best bet. They are very limited in what they can do but you can buy them quite cheaply.

Answer 3

Any used point & shoot camera would likely be junk or misused. I don't understand why you would skimp on a cruddy camera when your precious children are young only once. I sure would want decent pictures to remember what they were like.

Answer 4

LOL.dont go with sony..a cheap camera will give you cheap looking pictures..go with Nikon or Canon.