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purchasing an inexpensive used Canon Point and Shoot digital camera

by Mary S.
(Millington, Maryland)

Canon PowerShot SX100IS

Canon PowerShot SX100IS

"I am a low-tech, older person. I need to purchase a decent Canon Point and Shoot camera for use primarily on eBay, Etsy. I have been looking on eBay at SX100 cameras, which seem adequate for my purposes. I had previously used Canon A-series (A-570) which were pretty primitive but worked for a long time until they broke.

I want a built-in flash and not too many decisions to make or features to select, so will mostly use auto focus. Adjusting the light is sometimes important, as is taking close-ups.

Am I looking at the right series. or should I upgrade a little, without getting into too much technology or expense?
Thank you very much." Mary

Hi Mary,

Thanks for your question about purchasing a cheap camera for photographing products for eBay or Etsy. Welcome to the world of too many choices. My wife and I had one of the A series of Canons a long time ago too. I don't use, nor do I recommend point and shoot cameras anymore, but I'll try to answer the your question.

Basic Camera For eBay And Etsy

The Canon SX100 will certainly provide you quality photos for using for selling items (depending on what they are). Just like cell phone cameras, how you light and position your items will be more important than the camera you use.

Whether you use a simple point and shoot camera, the camera that comes with all cell phones these days, or an advanced camera, the autofocus and auto exposure features of all of these cameras will work just fine for you.

Lighting For eBay And Etsy Products

I don't know what type of items you're wanting to photograph, Mary, but many objects will render more attractively if you stay away from using the tiny pop-up flash on your camera. You might find reading a few articles on tips for lighting products for selling online to get some good ideas. You DON'T need expensive light set-ups.

I hope this helps. Feel free to comment back.
Thanks so much,
Bruce

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Author Bruce Lovelace
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Bruce Lovelace is the publisher of Canon Camera Geek. Read more about him on the About Page. He also publishes how to articles and camera gear reviews at the Photography Tips website.

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