I'm buying a Nikon D70s from craigslist. What should I look for upon inspection?

Question

I am making the transition from point and shoot to dslr. I'm completely inexperienced. What should I look out for when I inspect the item before purchasing. I am looking at a Nikon D70s with 50mm f1.8D in like new condition. Owner states No damage to camera or lens.

Thanks for the advice.

Answer 1

I would ask to meet the seller at a local camera shop that you choose.  Then, pay the shopkeep a small fee to inspect the camera in front of you.  I would not purchase a camera for myself without an inspection (particularly for the price you would need to pay for a dSLR), and I am a rather well-trained photographer.

Answer 2

Nikon D70s is a good camera, but there are things you should look for.   First,  take a general scan of the camera.  Not that it is going to tell you much about it's internal condition,  but you can see immediately how it was taken care of.   When you set up a meeting with the seller,  make sure you tell him to have the battery well charged up and that it comes with a memory card, if you don't already have one.   If using your own card,  you will want to format it to that camera first thing.   Take a few pics and see how the images write to the card.  Actually, you will want to take more than just a few pics.  At least 50 ( but that won't take long shooting one after the other - and this will tell you if the battery is strong or just about to peter out).  Also, try out the flash... make sure that works too.  Gently shake the camera - or rotate it around and around to listen for loose parts inside.   The suggestion about meeting at a camera repair is not a bad idea, though unless the repair guy is especially nice,  he will not look at your camera for a tip.   They normally want to take it in for examination ... which there is a fee.  They normally don't to it right in front of you either.... so sometimes you have to leave it and your seller won't agree to that, I am sure.   The next thing you should do is ask if the camera has ever been serviced?  Then when? Where? and for what reason?   Another thing most important is if there is dust on the sensor,  and if it has not been cleaned in some time or ever... my guess is that there is.  Cost of cleaning a sensor at our repair shop is $89.00 plus tax.    And if it is a good deal, really depends on how much the seller is asking and how the camera was used.  Professionally?  Hobby?   A D70 that was used as a studio camera or sports camera  ....  meaning lots of pictures taken ...  for $500.00 is not a good deal,  as the life of the shutter on the camera is near its end.  Cost of a new shutter around $300.00 (maybe more).  I know that is a lot to take in...  but you are wanting and needing a camera that you will enjoy.     I think the saying is "Buyer Beware" .   Hope that helps and I hope it turns out to be a great camera for you. OH... and MAKE sure it has the owner's manual.