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In a difficult, post-pandemic economy, it makes sense to stretch your spend on kit as far as possible SMART BUYS IN TOUGH TIMES
WORDS ADAM DUCKWORTH W ith inflation rising, uncertainty in the global economy and ever-tightening budgets from clients, it’s vitally important to keep a firmgrip on outgoings to run your business lean andmean. For some, that means hanging on to old kit, or going for the rental option – but for many, renting is not a viable alternative. If your old gear isn’t up to the job or likely to fail, then it is your reputation and livelihood that’s ultimately at stake. So, savvy filmmakers are increasingly looking to the used market for their next major lens or camera purchase. That doesn’t mean you have to use old-generation gear, as there are lots of nearly-new, current models up for grabs. We would all like the latest and greatest 8K wondercam, but if finances are even a slight concern, it’s crucial to buy what you need, rather than what you like. New tech costs more, but if you don’t actually require it, then it’s a waste. Buying a previous- generationmodel means you avoid the big depreciation the first owner had to deal with. A live-streaming camera or 240fps may well be absolutely essential right now, and chances are the tech will be available pre-loved. We look at some of the best bits of kit to consider – and getting it in your hands safely. LATEST AND GREATEST If you really do have a need for the latest camera, but just can’t face the full retail price, don’t give up hope. A number of the current models are on sale used. And, as many haven’t been out for long, they are often in
really good condition – andmight have some of the manufacturer’s warranty left. The current hot buys inmirrorless cameras for filmmakers are the Sony A7 III, A7S III, Canon EOS R5 and Panasonic S1H. All of these have been on sale for a while, so are in strong supply on the usedmarket at great prices. There’s also a decent amount of Panasonic full-frame S1 and S1Rmirrorless cameras, and FujifilmX-T4s. If you want a Sony A1 or Panasonic GH5 II, you’ll probably be looking for a while, as they are in high demand and too new– but it’s always worth checking around. For cinema cameras, there are very few Red Komodos on the used market, and it’s difficult – but not impossible – to get hold of a used Sony FX6. But for other Red cameras, the Sony FX9, Canon EOS C500Mark
II, C300Mark III and C200s are slightly easier to locate. The entry- level EOS C70 is a bit new to have lots of used versions on sale, but seek and you will find! The same for Blackmagic Ursa Mini Pro G2s. THE OLDER GENERATION When a brand-newmodel launches, there is usually an instant drop in price on the older versions of the camera. Even though, sometimes, there isn’t a huge change in spec. That what makes these more senior citizens such a great purchase. For example, the Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 6Kmay be overshadowed by the 6K Pro version –which has lots of newer features – but the 6K is still awesome, with almost identical functionality. While the firmhas the Ursa Mini Pro 12K and G2 versions of its cinema camera
HOT SHOTS The Sony FX9 cinema camera is a current model, but is increasingly available to buy used
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