Sony a6000 2nd Hand: The Sony a6000, released in 2014, was a game-changer in the mirrorless camera market. Its compact size, powerful autofocus, and impressive image quality made it a favorite among enthusiasts and professionals alike. Now, with its successor, the a6000 remains a compelling option for those seeking a reliable and affordable camera.
The used market offers a unique opportunity to acquire this powerful tool at a fraction of the cost of a new model.
The Sony a6000’s 24.3MP APS-C sensor, fast hybrid autofocus system with 179 phase-detection points, and 1080p video recording at 60fps make it a versatile camera capable of capturing stunning stills and smooth videos. It’s a perfect choice for photographers of all levels, from beginners to experienced professionals.
Whether you’re passionate about landscape photography, street photography, portraiture, or even videography, the Sony a6000 can handle it all.
Sony a6000 Overview
The Sony a6000, released in 2014, marked a pivotal moment in the evolution of mirrorless cameras. It became a popular choice for enthusiasts and professionals alike, establishing itself as a benchmark for image quality and performance in its price range.
Its compact size and impressive features made it a versatile tool for various photography genres.
Key Features and Specifications
The Sony a6000 is equipped with a 24.3-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, offering a balance of resolution and low-light performance. The sensor size, larger than most compact cameras, provides a shallower depth of field, enabling photographers to isolate subjects and create professional-looking images.
The a6000 boasts a fast and accurate hybrid autofocus system with 179 phase-detection points covering a large portion of the sensor. This advanced autofocus system ensures rapid and precise focusing, making it ideal for capturing fast-moving subjects, such as sports or wildlife.
Target Audience
The Sony a6000’s target audience is diverse, appealing to both aspiring and experienced photographers. Its relatively affordable price point makes it accessible to beginners entering the world of mirrorless cameras. The a6000’s impressive performance and features also attract experienced photographers seeking a compact and lightweight camera for travel or everyday shooting.
Its versatility extends to various photography genres, including landscape, portrait, street, and even video.
Video Capabilities
The Sony a6000 offers full HD video recording at 60 frames per second, enabling smooth and detailed footage. Its advanced video features include manual controls, picture profiles, and slow-motion recording. The a6000’s compact size and lightweight design make it suitable for capturing video on the go, ideal for travel vlogging or documentary filmmaking.
Benefits of Buying a Used Sony a6000
Embarking on a photographic journey often involves careful consideration of budget and equipment. While purchasing a brand-new camera offers the latest features and warranty, exploring the realm of used cameras presents an enticing alternative, particularly for the Sony a6000. The Sony a6000, a popular and versatile mirrorless camera, has earned a reputation for its exceptional image quality and user-friendly interface.
The appeal of purchasing a used Sony a6000 lies in its affordability and accessibility, allowing enthusiasts to acquire a high-quality camera without breaking the bank.
Cost Savings
Purchasing a used Sony a6000 can significantly reduce your initial investment compared to buying a brand-new model. The depreciation of electronics, especially cameras, is a natural phenomenon. As newer models are released, older models become more affordable in the used market.
This price reduction allows you to access a powerful camera at a fraction of its original cost. For example, a brand-new Sony a6000 might cost around $500, while a used model in good condition could be found for $250 to $350, representing a substantial cost savings of 30% to 50%.
Access to Older Models
The used camera market provides access to older models that may no longer be available new. This is particularly relevant for cameras like the Sony a6000, which has been discontinued but continues to be a popular choice among photographers. By exploring the used market, you can still acquire this camera and benefit from its features, even though it is no longer produced.
The Sony a6000 is a popular choice for photographers seeking a second-hand camera, offering impressive image quality and features. While its price point may be a bit higher than some, you can find incredible deals on pre-owned models. If you’re looking for a camera that’s more budget-friendly, there are some great options available under $200, like those listed in this guide to the best under $200 digital cameras.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to your budget and needs, and the Sony a6000 can still be a fantastic choice for those who value performance and quality.
For instance, the Sony a6000 was released in 2014 and was discontinued in 2019. While you cannot purchase a brand-new a6000, you can still find well-maintained used models in excellent condition, allowing you to experience the camera’s capabilities.
The Sony a6000 is a popular choice for street photographers due to its compact size and impressive image quality. While its autofocus system is reliable, some users may prefer the more advanced autofocus capabilities of Canon cameras. If you’re looking for a camera system with excellent autofocus performance, consider pairing your a6000 with a Canon lens.
For a truly exceptional street photography experience, consider investing in one of the lenses listed in the best canon street photography lens for 2024 , such as the Canon EF 35mm f/1.4L II USM. These lenses are designed to excel in low light and provide a natural field of view that is ideal for capturing candid moments on the street.
Ultimately, the best choice for your street photography setup will depend on your individual preferences and budget.
Finding a Reputable Seller
When purchasing a used camera, it is crucial to find a reputable seller to ensure the camera’s condition and authenticity. Reputable sellers typically offer detailed descriptions of the camera’s condition, including any signs of wear and tear, and provide clear images.
Here are some tips for identifying a reputable seller:
- Online Marketplaces:Popular online marketplaces like eBay and Craigslist offer a wide selection of used cameras. Look for sellers with positive feedback ratings and detailed descriptions of the camera’s condition.
- Camera Stores:Many camera stores offer used cameras, providing a more secure and reliable option. They typically have a return policy and may offer warranties on used equipment.
- Photography Forums:Online photography forums often have sections dedicated to buying and selling used gear. This allows you to connect with other photographers and potentially find a camera in good condition.
Checking the Camera’s Condition, Sony a6000 2nd hand
Before purchasing a used Sony a6000, it is essential to carefully inspect the camera to ensure it is in good working order. Here are some key points to consider:
- Physical Condition:Examine the camera for any signs of wear and tear, such as scratches, dents, or cracks. Check the lens for any dust, scratches, or fungus.
- Functionality:Test the camera’s key functions, including the shutter, autofocus, zoom, and image stabilization. Ensure that all buttons and dials are working properly.
- Image Quality:Take some test shots to assess the image quality. Look for any signs of dust, artifacts, or other issues that might affect the image.
- Battery Life:Check the battery’s condition and ensure it holds a charge. Consider purchasing a new battery if the existing one is worn out.
- Accessories:Inquire about the included accessories, such as the lens, charger, and camera strap. Determine if you need to purchase any additional accessories.
Factors to Consider When Buying a Used Sony a6000
Acquiring a used Sony a6000 can be a great way to save money and get your hands on a capable camera. However, it’s essential to approach the purchase with caution and due diligence to ensure you’re getting a reliable camera in good condition.
Assessing the Camera’s Condition
The physical condition of the camera is a crucial factor to consider. This involves examining the camera’s body, lens, and accessories for signs of wear and tear. A thorough inspection will help you determine the camera’s overall health and identify any potential issues.
- Camera Body:Check for scratches, dents, and other signs of physical damage. Inspect the camera’s exterior for any cracks or loose parts. Pay attention to the condition of the buttons, dials, and display screen. Ensure that all the buttons and dials function properly and the display screen is free from scratches or dead pixels.
- Lens:Inspect the lens for any scratches, dust, or fungus. Check the lens’s focusing mechanism for any issues. Ensure that the lens mount is clean and free from damage. You should also check for any signs of oil or dust on the lens elements.
- Accessories:Inspect the included accessories, such as the battery, charger, and camera strap, for any damage or signs of wear. Ensure that the battery holds a charge and the charger works properly.
Shutter Count
The shutter count is a crucial metric that indicates how many times the camera’s shutter has been activated. A higher shutter count suggests that the camera has been used extensively and may have a shorter lifespan.
A used Sony a6000 can be a great entry point into the world of mirrorless photography, offering impressive image quality and a compact design. If you’re considering upgrading your lens system, however, you might find yourself drawn to the wealth of options available for Canon’s EF mount, particularly if you’re seeking exceptional performance for specific genres like portraiture or landscape.
For a curated list of top-rated Canon EF lenses, check out this comprehensive guide: best canon ef mount lenses. While these lenses may not be directly compatible with your Sony a6000, you can utilize adapters to explore a wider range of photographic possibilities, potentially opening doors to even more creative expressions.
Shutter count is a measure of how many times the camera’s shutter has been activated.
- Determining the Shutter Count:Many online resources and software applications can help you determine the shutter count of a Sony a6000. You can find the shutter count information in the camera’s EXIF data, which is embedded in the image files.
- Recommended Shutter Count:A general rule of thumb is that a shutter count of less than 100,000 is considered acceptable for a used camera. However, the lifespan of a camera’s shutter can vary depending on factors such as the camera’s model, usage, and maintenance.
Lens Compatibility
The Sony a6000 uses an E-mount lens system. This means that you can use a wide range of E-mount lenses with the camera. However, it’s essential to ensure that the lens you’re considering is compatible with the Sony a6000.
- Lens Compatibility:Not all E-mount lenses are compatible with all Sony cameras. Some lenses may require specific firmware updates or have limitations when used with certain cameras.
- Researching Lens Compatibility:Before purchasing a used lens, it’s essential to research its compatibility with the Sony a6000. You can check the lens’s specifications on the manufacturer’s website or online forums.
Finding a Used Sony a6000
Embarking on the journey to find a pre-owned Sony a6000 can be an exciting yet intricate endeavor. The market for used cameras is vast, offering a plethora of options, but it’s crucial to navigate it with caution and a discerning eye.
This section will illuminate the various avenues for finding a used Sony a6000, outlining the advantages and drawbacks of each platform to guide you toward a wise purchase.
Online Marketplaces
Online marketplaces have emerged as a dominant force in the used camera market, offering a convenient and extensive platform for both buyers and sellers. These platforms connect individuals seeking to acquire used cameras with those looking to part ways with their equipment.
This digital exchange fosters a dynamic market where prices are influenced by factors such as camera condition, accessories included, and prevailing market demand.
The Sony a6000, a popular choice for enthusiasts, boasts a compact design and impressive autofocus capabilities. While its image quality is commendable, capturing fast-moving subjects like birds often necessitates a camera with superior tracking and burst shooting performance. For those dedicated to avian photography, exploring the best camera for bird photography is essential.
However, the Sony a6000’s affordability and portability make it a worthwhile consideration for beginners venturing into the world of bird photography.
“Online marketplaces, like eBay and Craigslist, provide a wide range of choices and price points for used Sony a6000 cameras.”
- eBay: eBay is a global online marketplace known for its vast inventory, competitive bidding system, and buyer protection programs. Sellers on eBay often provide detailed product descriptions, images, and feedback ratings, enabling buyers to make informed decisions. However, navigating eBay can be time-consuming, and buyers should exercise caution when dealing with sellers with limited feedback or suspicious listings.
- Craigslist: Craigslist is a local classifieds website where individuals can post advertisements for used goods, including cameras. The advantage of Craigslist lies in its potential for finding local deals and negotiating directly with sellers. However, Craigslist lacks the buyer protection measures of eBay and other online marketplaces, making it crucial to meet sellers in person, inspect the camera thoroughly, and exercise caution when handling transactions.
- Facebook Marketplace: Facebook Marketplace has gained popularity as a platform for buying and selling used items within local communities. This platform allows users to connect with sellers in their area, making it convenient for inspecting cameras in person and negotiating prices.
Similar to Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace lacks comprehensive buyer protection, emphasizing the importance of exercising due diligence.
Camera Stores
Established camera stores, both online and brick-and-mortar, often have a selection of used cameras, including the Sony a6000. These stores typically have experienced staff who can provide guidance on camera condition, functionality, and potential issues. Moreover, reputable camera stores often offer warranties or return policies on used cameras, providing an added layer of security for buyers.
“Camera stores, like KEH Camera and Adorama, specialize in used camera equipment, offering a curated selection and expert advice.”
- KEH Camera: KEH Camera is a renowned online retailer specializing in used photographic equipment. They offer a wide range of cameras, lenses, and accessories, meticulously graded based on their condition. KEH Camera provides comprehensive descriptions, detailed images, and a satisfaction guarantee, ensuring a high level of quality and customer service.
- Adorama: Adorama is a leading online and brick-and-mortar camera retailer with a dedicated section for used equipment. Their used cameras are carefully inspected and graded, providing buyers with confidence in their purchase. Adorama also offers a range of financing options and customer support resources.
Essential Accessories for the Sony a6000: Sony A6000 2nd Hand
The Sony a6000 is a capable camera, but to truly unlock its potential, you’ll need a few essential accessories. These tools will enhance your shooting experience, protect your investment, and expand your creative possibilities.
Lenses
Choosing the right lenses for your Sony a6000 depends on your photographic interests and shooting style.
“The lens is the most important part of the camera.”
Ansel Adams
The kit lens (16-50mm) is a versatile option, but it’s worth exploring other lenses to expand your creative range.
- For landscapes and portraits:The Sony E 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 OSS lens offers a wider zoom range, making it ideal for capturing sweeping vistas and portraits with a pleasing bokeh effect. Its Optical SteadyShot (OSS) technology helps reduce camera shake, ensuring sharp images even in low light.
- For street photography and candid moments:The Sony E 35mm f/1.8 OSS lens provides a classic focal length that’s perfect for capturing everyday scenes and portraits with a shallow depth of field. Its wide aperture allows you to isolate subjects and create stunning bokeh effects.
- For wildlife and sports photography:The Sony E 70-350mm f/4.5-6.3 G OSS lens offers a powerful zoom range, allowing you to capture distant subjects with clarity. Its OSS technology helps stabilize the image, especially when shooting at longer focal lengths.
- For macro photography:The Sony E 30mm f/3.5 Macro lens is designed for close-up photography, allowing you to capture intricate details of flowers, insects, and other small objects. Its built-in macro focusing system ensures sharp and detailed images.
Batteries
A spare battery is essential for any photographer, especially when shooting on the go. The Sony NP-FW50 battery provides enough power for approximately 300 shots, but having an extra battery ensures you can keep shooting without interruption.
Memory Cards
The Sony a6000 uses SD cards for storage. Choose a high-speed SD card (UHS-I or UHS-II) with a large capacity to ensure fast write speeds and ample storage for your photos and videos.
Camera Bags
A camera bag is crucial for protecting your camera and lenses from bumps, scratches, and weather elements. Choose a bag that’s comfortable to carry, offers adequate padding, and has compartments for your lenses and other accessories.
Photography Tips for the Sony a6000
The Sony a6000 is a powerful and versatile camera, capable of producing stunning images in a variety of situations. To truly unlock its potential, understanding its features and mastering some key techniques is essential. This section will delve into specific tips and techniques for maximizing the Sony a6000’s capabilities, focusing on autofocus settings, exposure control, and creative shooting modes.
Autofocus Settings
The Sony a6000 boasts a fast and accurate autofocus system with a wide array of settings to optimize for different shooting scenarios. Understanding and utilizing these settings is crucial for capturing sharp, well-focused images.
- Single-Shot AF (AF-S):Ideal for stationary subjects, this mode locks focus on the selected point and maintains it until you release the shutter. It’s perfect for landscapes, portraits, or any scenario where the subject isn’t moving.
- Continuous AF (AF-C):This mode is designed for moving subjects, continuously adjusting focus as the subject moves. It’s essential for sports, wildlife, or any situation where you need to track a moving target.
- Autofocus Area Selection:The Sony a6000 offers various autofocus area selection options, allowing you to fine-tune the camera’s focus behavior.
- Wide Area:This mode covers a large portion of the sensor, allowing the camera to automatically select the focus point within that area.
- Flexible Spot:Provides greater control by allowing you to manually select a small focus area within the wider frame.
- Center:This option focuses only on the center of the frame, useful for precise focusing on a specific point.
- Eye AF:A remarkable feature, Eye AF automatically detects and focuses on the subject’s eye, ensuring sharp and captivating portraits. This mode is particularly useful for shooting portraits in various lighting conditions.
Exposure Control
Exposure, the amount of light that reaches the camera sensor, is a fundamental aspect of photography. The Sony a6000 offers several exposure control methods to achieve the desired brightness and contrast in your images.
- Aperture Priority (A):Allows you to control the aperture, the opening in the lens that controls the amount of light entering the camera. This mode is ideal for adjusting the depth of field, the area in focus, and creating blurred backgrounds or foregrounds.
- Shutter Priority (S):This mode gives you control over the shutter speed, the duration for which the shutter remains open. It’s essential for freezing motion or capturing the movement of a subject.
- Manual (M):This mode allows you to manually set both aperture and shutter speed, giving you complete control over exposure. It requires more experience but provides maximum flexibility for creative control.
- Exposure Compensation:This feature allows you to adjust the overall exposure of your image by adding or subtracting light from the camera’s metering. This is useful for correcting overexposed or underexposed images, or for creating specific artistic effects.
Creative Shooting Modes
The Sony a6000 offers several creative shooting modes to enhance your images and add artistic flair. These modes provide a starting point for experimentation and exploration.
- Picture Profiles:Preset color profiles that adjust the camera’s image processing, allowing you to customize the look and feel of your images.
- Creative Style:Similar to picture profiles, these modes offer a range of artistic styles, including vivid, neutral, and monochrome, to enhance the overall mood and aesthetic of your images.
- HDR (High Dynamic Range):This mode captures multiple exposures of the same scene at different exposures and combines them into a single image with greater dynamic range, preserving detail in both highlights and shadows.
- Panorama:This mode allows you to capture a wide panorama by stitching together multiple images. The Sony a6000 offers both vertical and horizontal panorama options.
Shooting Scenarios and Settings
The Sony a6000’s versatility shines in various shooting scenarios. Understanding how to adjust the camera settings for each scenario will significantly improve your photographic results.
- Landscapes:
- Aperture Priority (A):Use a smaller aperture (higher f-number) to achieve greater depth of field, ensuring sharpness from foreground to background.
- Shutter Speed:Choose a shutter speed that prevents camera shake, typically 1/focal length or slower.
- ISO:Keep ISO low (e.g., 100-400) for minimal noise.
- Portraits:
- Aperture Priority (A):Use a wider aperture (lower f-number) to create a shallow depth of field, blurring the background and highlighting the subject.
- Shutter Speed:Adjust the shutter speed based on the lighting conditions and subject movement.
- ISO:Adjust ISO as needed to maintain proper exposure.
- Eye AF:Utilize the Eye AF feature to ensure sharp focus on the subject’s eyes.
- Sports and Action:
- Continuous AF (AF-C):Use this mode to track moving subjects.
- Shutter Priority (S):Choose a fast shutter speed to freeze the action.
- ISO:Increase ISO if needed to achieve a fast enough shutter speed.
- Low-Light Photography:
- Aperture Priority (A):Use a wider aperture (lower f-number) to allow more light to enter the camera.
- Shutter Speed:Adjust the shutter speed based on the available light.
- ISO:Increase ISO as needed to achieve a proper exposure, but be mindful of noise levels.
- Long Exposure:Experiment with longer exposures to capture light trails or create a sense of movement.
Achieving Specific Photographic Effects
The Sony a6000’s features allow you to achieve specific photographic effects that add depth and creativity to your images.
- Shallow Depth of Field:To create a blurred background and emphasize the subject, use a wide aperture (lower f-number). This technique is commonly used in portrait photography to isolate the subject from the surroundings.
- High-Speed Action Shots:To freeze fast-moving subjects, use a fast shutter speed. This technique is essential for capturing sports, wildlife, or any situation where the subject is moving quickly.
- Panning:To capture a sense of motion and blur the background while keeping the subject sharp, use a slow shutter speed and pan the camera with the moving subject. This technique is often used for capturing cars, trains, or other moving objects.
- Bokeh:This refers to the pleasing out-of-focus blur in the background of an image. To achieve bokeh, use a wide aperture (lower f-number) and a lens with a shallow depth of field.
- Long Exposure:To capture the movement of light or create a sense of time lapse, use a slow shutter speed. This technique is often used for capturing cityscapes, waterfalls, or star trails.
Last Point
Purchasing a used Sony a6000 can be a smart and rewarding decision, offering access to a high-quality camera at a budget-friendly price. By carefully considering the factors discussed, you can find a well-maintained camera that will serve you for years to come.
Remember to research thoroughly, inspect the camera meticulously, and prioritize your needs and budget. With the right approach, you can embark on a photographic journey with the Sony a6000, capturing memories and creating breathtaking images.