questions when buying used

[ChristianR]

I'm hoping this is the right place to post this question.

I found what appears to be a good deal on a Canon 5D camera on Craigslist and will be checking it out tomorrow. What should I ask or look for when looking it over. Is it bad to ask to take a few pictures knowing that it will add to the shutter acuations?

I want to make sure I do my due dilligence but at the same time want to respect what is expected or the norm when buying used gear from a photographer.

thanks in advance for the advice!

I'd sure as hell want to take a few accuations with it. How would know it works? Don't worry about adding to the number of shots on it, the 10-20 you take is a drop in the bucket.

How many shots are on it already?

[ChristianR]

the post says 15K actuations... is that a lot?

Originally Posted by ChristianR

the post says 15K actuations... is that a lot?

Not really, but I'd ask for proof.

[sk66]

From a photographer?
Ask to take some shots...load them onto your computer, review the exif for actuations...look for dead/hot pixels...act like you know what you are doing.
More importantly, request some kind of proof it's a USA version and warranty/service will be available if needed.

[Big Nick]

Take some long exposures with low ISO, high ISO that's where dead pixels usually really show

[ChristianR]

thanks so much for all the tips! I'll bring my Mac with me and be sure to check for all those issues! I'm so glad I asked. I'm open to any and all other suggestions to give me more peace of mind about buying used

[sk66]

Expect to find some stuck/hot pixels. Every camera has some, just not many. For "hot pixels" take a long exposure (30+sec) with the lens cap on.

[hibou]

Originally Posted by sk66

From a photographer?
Ask to take some shots...load them onto your computer, review the exif for actuations...look for dead/hot pixels...act like you know what you are doing.
More importantly, request some kind of proof it's a USA version and warranty/service will be available if needed.

where in the EXIF does it say how many actuations?

[Raoul Isidro]

Buying used gear site unseen has always been fraught with peril for your hard earned money and that's one of many things that makes this endeavor exciting. Everyone loves a bargain. Spotting an item that nobody seems to touch has two sides to it. It's a real bargain (you are the first to spot it) or the experts don't want to touch it with a 10 foot pole... Proceed with caution...