How to sell cameras and camera lenses for cash

Camera gear is expensive new and holds value well when it's looked after, which makes it one of the best categories to sell. Whether you've switched systems, upgraded a body, or stopped using a lens you thought you'd love, there's very likely a photographer who'd use it.

What sells well

• Mirrorless bodies — Sony Alpha, Canon EOS R, Nikon Z, Fujifilm X, Panasonic Lumix and OM System.
• DSLRs — Canon EOS and Nikon models remain popular, especially full-frame bodies.
• Lenses — primes and zooms from camera makers, plus third-party lenses from Sigma, Tamron and Samyang.
• Film cameras — 35mm SLRs, rangefinders and quality compacts have a dedicated following.
• Premium compacts — such as Sony RX100 and Fujifilm X100 series.
• Accessories — flashes, battery grips, filters and quality tripods.

What affects the value

• Shutter count on digital bodies. Lower counts suggest less use. You can often find it in the camera's menu or by checking the image data.
• Sensor condition: dust is normal and cleanable; scratches are a problem.
• Lens glass: look for scratches, haze, fungus (thread-like patterns inside the lens) and separation. Shine a torch through the lens to check.
• Autofocus and stabilisation working properly.
• Body condition: brassing, rubber grips lifting, scuffs.
• Completeness: battery, charger, caps, hoods and the original box.

Preparing your gear

1. Test everything. Take shots at various settings, check autofocus, stabilisation, every button and dial.
2. Clean the glass with a blower and a lens cloth. Don't use household cleaners.
3. Reset the camera to factory settings and remove any Wi-Fi pairing with your phone.
4. Remove memory cards — or format them if you include them.
5. Fit caps — body cap and front and rear lens caps.

Selling options

Camera shops sometimes buy used gear, and there are specialist used camera dealers. Selling privately means detailed listings, technical questions and the worry of posting expensive kit.

With SendForCash, describe your camera or lenses — model, condition and what's included — and get an instant cash offer. Accept and we email a free postage label. We pay the same day we inspect. If anything's not as described, we explain and offer a revised price, or return the item free.

Packing camera gear

• Detach the lens from the body and cap both.
• Wrap each item in bubble wrap.
• Use a box with plenty of padding so nothing can move.
• Pack the battery inside the camera or with the charger, not loose.

See our packing guide.

FAQ

Do you buy lenses with fungus?

Fungus is a fault that affects image quality, so a lens with fungus isn't one we can accept.

Can I sell a camera without the charger?

Yes, though including the battery and charger makes for a better offer.

Do you buy film cameras?

Yes, if they work properly. Film cameras are hard to test fully, so describe their condition honestly.

What about old point-and-shoot cameras?

Some compact digital cameras have become popular again. Describe yours and get an instant offer — if it's below £15, we'll let you know.