Unearthing a Hidden Gem: My Journey into the Used Camera Market and the Sony a7SII

I've always been fascinated by cameras and the art of capturing moments. But let's face it, diving headfirst into photography or videography can be a pricey endeavor. The cost of lenses, accessories, and the camera itself can quickly rack up, leaving aspiring creatives feeling discouraged.

Determined to find a solution, I embarked on a six-month exploration of the used camera market. Thrift stores, Goodwill, and eBay became my hunting grounds, and I was amazed by the treasures I uncovered. It turns out there's a real art to finding a used camera that delivers exceptional quality without breaking the bank.

You can use the FREE PROJECT FILES for a7sii so you can dive in and explore for yourself. If you're still on the fence after you read this blog, you can take my free "Which Camera Should I Buy?" quiz! 

I also made a YOUTUBE VIDEO on this comparison so you can watch it after you read this blog. 

Usability and Design

My most exciting find? The Sony a7S II, a full-frame mirrorless camera that's almost a decade old but still holds its own against newer models. This 12MP marvel originally retailed for $2400, but I snagged a pre-loved one for a fraction of the price – under $500!

To put the a7S II to the test, I captured both photos and videos, and I'm thrilled with the results. I've even shared the project files in the description below, so you can download them and experiment with the footage yourself!

Released in 2015, the a7S II followed the 42MP a7R II and preceded the lesser-known APS-C camera, the Sony SLT-a68. Despite being overshadowed by its siblings, the a7S II boasts impressive features, including a 5-axis sensor-shift stabilization system that keeps images sharp and videos steady.

The clarity of the underwater shots, taken through a thick glass window, truly showcases the camera's capabilities. Whether you're a seasoned content creator or just starting, the a7S II offers a significant upgrade from smartphone cameras or smaller sensor cameras.

The 5-axis stabilization is a game-changer, especially in low-light conditions or when using telephoto lenses. I was able to capture stunning handheld shots even under overcast skies.

While full-frame lenses can be expensive, I found a fantastic used 35mm f/1.4 lens that I've used for countless headshots and studio projects.

The Sony E-mount system also offers a wide range of lens options, including APS-C lenses that can be used in crop mode for added flexibility, particularly for wildlife photography.

I primarily used full-frame lenses to maximize the sensor's potential, and I'll share the specific lenses I used throughout the video.

By combining a used a7S II with a used or kit lens, you can achieve full-frame image quality for under $1000!

Now, you might be wondering why I'd recommend a used camera instead of a brand-new one. The answer is simple: your budget will thank you. I could recreate the same high-quality headshot I took with my Sony a7S III and expensive SD cards for a fraction of the cost using the a7S II.

While the a7S III offers more features like 10-bit recording and a fully articulating screen, the image quality difference is often negligible. I primarily chose the a7S III for its 10-bit capabilities, but I wouldn't hesitate to use the a7S II for low-light shots.

Don't let 8-bit recording scare you. I used an 8-bit camera, the a7 III, for years without any complaints about image quality or dynamic range.

Renting the a7S II from Lensrentals confirmed its value. Despite being an older model, it performed admirably and didn't feel like a downgrade from my a7S III.

Interestingly, some people prefer the "filmic" look of older Sony sensors compared to the more modern, digital look of newer sensors. So, you might even find that you prefer the images from the a7S II!

The a7S II also has some features that my a7S III lacks, like a dedicated AF/MF and AEL toggle switch.

For video recording, I mainly used 4K 24fps in the Cine2 picture profile. For photography, I shot in RAW format for optimal editing flexibility in Lightroom.

If photography is your primary focus, consider a used a7 III with its 24MP sensor. However, keep in mind that the a7 III typically costs a bit more than a used a7S II.

One downside of the a7S II is its autofocus system. While decent, it's not as snappy as newer Sony cameras. I often found myself switching to manual focus, especially in brighter environments where the display lacked clarity.

The tilting screen, while useful, isn't as versatile as a fully articulating screen.

Although the 5-axis stabilization is excellent for photography, it's less effective for handheld video recording while walking.

The camera's larger body prevents overheating, a common issue with some cameras. It also offers essential ports like a mic input, headphone jack, USB-A, and micro HDMI. I recommend using an external monitor for better visibility, as the built-in display can be dim, especially when recording in 4K.

The record button's placement on the side of the camera was a minor inconvenience for me as a right-handed shooter.

The a7S II uses older NP-FW50 batteries, which have a shorter lifespan than newer Sony batteries. However, they're readily available and affordable.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Sony a7S II is a fantastic option for aspiring photographers and videographers on a budget. It delivers exceptional image quality, especially in low light, and can be paired with a variety of lenses for under $1000. While newer cameras offer more bells and whistles, the a7S II remains a capable and affordable tool for capturing your creative vision.