My New, Old & Used Canon 5D Mk IV
Today I finally upgraded my camera! My journey as a photographer camera wise started with a Canon Rebel t1i back in college. From there I sorta was forced to upgrade when I started working at a local photo studio shooting a variety of things, but mostly shooting high school sports action. The entry level camera just wasn’t cutting it. So I bit the bullet and purchased my Canon 5D Mk III right when it launched in 2012. It’s been my only camera up until today. It survived 9 years of work AND unemployment. I’ve sold gear to make rent, but I just couldn’t part with it. I’ve shot many, many subjects from high school athletes to NFL players. Toy soldiers to well I think I photographed my buddy who is a former Marine. Dairy cows to crocodiles and other wildlife…you get the point.
Anyway, now that I’ve started to go off on my own and while my 5D3 is still snapping along. I needed an upgrade and a backup camera. Thus, my acquiring of a new to me, but old and used (and last) of the Canon 5D series. The 5D Mk IV. It’s a workhorse of a camera.
As I was looking to purchase and research other cameras (now that mirrorless seems to be trying to take over), I was going to purchase a brand new 5DMk4. The initial shock and hesitation of draining half of my business account to make it happen, I decided to go to KEH.com to see what they had to offer. Earlier this year, I purchased a Tamron 24-70 f/2.8 and it was in excellent shape for being used.
KEH.com had a few Mk4’s in stock. One being graded as “Bargain”. I was hesitant, but see others post about the quality of “bargain” graded equipment, I took a shot at it. AND well… check out the images I took with my Pixel 3 today.
When I opened the package, I was blown away that the only damage was the bottom edges. Big whoop. I was curious how KEH graded their equipment and they state it is based only cosmetically which I was confused. BUT they follow up saying this is because they guarantee equipment works as intended with the exceptions of their grades “Ugly” and “As-is”. When I quickly tested the camera, it sure does work as intended. And I certainly intend to put it to work.
Additionally, they also back up their grading with a 21 day return policy. Also, a 180 day warranty if defective. While this is great assurance, I haven’t had to test out their customer service. Given their quality grading, I’m sure it’s great, but and knowing that I probably won’t have to.
As for the Mk 3? It may be moving down the depth chart, but it’s a trusty backup or 2nd camera if I need to have 2 shooting.
