Camera Thrifting

If you're like me, then you love taking pictures.  And who doesn't want that unusually beautiful product when taking a picture with a vintage camera?  But, where do you find them and how do you know that what you're getting is still in working condition?  Well, hopefully, this post will answer some of those questions and more.

Now, I'm no expert when it comes to cameras, but I do know a little bit when it comes to finding things that are worth their price and will last longer than just a week.  If you're in the market for a vintage camera and you don't know where to find them, help is on the way.  Sometimes the right place to shop depends on the type of camera you're wanting.  If you're looking for a Polaroid Instant camera, then you may want to keep your eyes peeled at yard sales for that special find.  If you're looking for something a little more pricey like an Olympus, then your best bet is going to different photography and thrift shops that sell used cameras.  You never know what treasures you may find!

Now, once you've found that dream camera... How do you know that it's worth buying?

Step 1:  Does the camera you're considering buying have an instruction booklet with it or some type box that it's coming in?

This may seem like a common-sense thing, but sometimes you forget about the small little details when you find something you want to get.

Step 2:  Is there any corroding on the inside of the camera?

*If you're not at a store or flea market and you're at a garage sale, consider the enviorment.  "Has this camera been stored in a windowless place (such as a garage) that could have gotten humid and made it accidentally corrode?"

This is super important!  When buying a camera, always check the inside just in case the camera may have been stored in a place that it could corrode easily without the seller even being aware of the damage caused to the camera they're selling you. 

This is minor corrosion on my Polaroid Instant Land Camera, but I took a risk when buying it, not knowing whether or not it would work when I order the film for it.

Step 3:  Do I know of anywhere locally that sells the film I need for this camera?

*If you don't know what type of film you need because your camera didn't come with an instruction booklet, an easy way to check is by opening up the camera and reading the labels on the inside. They'll usually mention the film needed somewhere.  And if all else fails, any search engine would be happy to help you along.

Step 4:  Is this actually something I'll use and enjoy?

The most important thing you should ask yourself is whether or not you're actually going to use the camera.  You may say you're going to use it every day, but realistically you probably won't.  You have to really think about why you want that camera so badly.  Is it for looks or to use? 

Hope I may have answered some of your questions!

xo. haley