Quick checklist
- Sample photo: ask for one recent photo taken with the actual camera, not a stock image.
- Lens: check for deep scratches, haze, fungus, or a lens cover that does not open fully.
- Flash: ask the seller to test the flash indoors.
- Battery door: make sure it closes firmly and is not taped shut.
- Battery and charger: confirm the exact battery model and whether a charger is included.
- Memory card: check whether it uses SD, Memory Stick, xD, CompactFlash, or another card type.
- Screen and buttons: check for cracked LCDs, stuck buttons, and menu problems.
- Zoom: the lens should extend and retract without grinding or error messages.
Green flags
A good listing shows the camera powered on, includes the charger, names the battery model, shows the card slot, and includes real sample photos. A small cosmetic scratch is usually less important than a missing charger or broken battery door.
Red flags
Be careful with listings that say "untested", "no charger", "worked last time", or "for parts" unless the price is low enough for a repair gamble. For a first camera, choose boring proof over a cute mystery.
Beginner price rule
If the camera needs a battery, charger, and special card reader, add those costs before comparing it with another listing. The cheapest camera is not always the cheapest setup.