Camera gear you can trust
Posted on Feb 20, 2024 by Adam Duckworth
Kit that’s MPB-approved means you can save serious money buying used – and get a free warranty for total peace of mind
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The benefits of buying used equipment aren’t just limited to the obvious cash-saving advantage – although no sensible business owner would ever turn down a potential saving of 30% compared to new kit.
Recycling is a more sustainable and mindful way of avoiding the trap of full-on consumerism that’s not great for the planet and doesn’t align with the more modern way of thinking.
Once you’re sold on the benefits of buying used, it’s crucial to avoid the pitfalls of auction sites, social media groups or buying from friends. Investing in faulty, misdescribed or stolen gear – and negotiating prices afterward – poses risks for any serious filmmaking enterprise.
As a professional, securing the right equipment at the right price is key, alongside ensuring its accuracy and functionality. A broken camera purchased used can swiftly damage one’s reputation on-set, often with very little comeback.
Dealing with professional video and cinema equipment requires experts who understand the market and the gear, not just for stills-based cameras and lenses.
That’s why MPB, the world’s leading used camera business, employs professionals trained in photography and cinematography.
They provide invaluable assistance and advice to customers in selecting the appropriate tools for their projects. At MPB, it’s not solely about selling equipment; it’s about ensuring the buyer’s specific requirements are met.
The customer experience team, based across three branches worldwide, comprises passionate people dedicated to image making and the equipment that facilitates it.
Since much of MPB’s stock revolves around stills cameras and lenses, many staff members are keen photographers.
However, given the rapid expansion of the video sector – coupled with the increasing popularity of hybrid shooters and cameras capable of handling both mediums – MPB now boasts a larger team of moviemakers than ever before. Consequently, the selection of equipment catering to filmmakers’ needs has never been higher.
With headquarters in the UK, USA and Germany, supported by a user-friendly website, customers can browse a huge range of fully tested and guaranteed kit.
Each item is meticulously photographed from multiple angles on the website, allowing for thorough inspection, complemented by detailed descriptions of the gear’s condition and included accessories. That’s the beauty of buying MPB-approved equipment.
In-house technical specialists check each item against 40 criteria to ensure it is reliable, fully functional and equipped with the latest firmware.
Precision is paramount, with accurate shutter speeds, fungus-free viewfinders, scratch-free lenses and properly functioning aperture and focus rings.
The six-month guarantee with every purchase eliminates concerns of unpleasant surprises, making the process both easy and risk-free. With over 300,000 satisfied customers and a five-star rating on Trustpilot, buying MPB-approved is a trusted and hassle-free experience.
Given MPB’s extensive size, the inventory consistently features a vast stock of cameras, lenses and accessories, ranging from previous generations to the latest models. Find compact mirrorless cameras, DSLRs, AF lenses or high-end cinema cameras from leading brands like Red, Arri, Sony, Canon, Panasonic and more – the choices are abundant.
For those considering part-exchange or selling their equipment to MPB for cash, an online form provides an approximate value.
A convenient courier service can pick up your kit and deliver it safely to MPB, where it undergoes a thorough check to verify its description. Once confirmed, you receive an email with the offer – and if accepted, the funds are deposited into your account within days.
Alternatively, you can use the value against new equipment from MPB, offering a modern and sustainable approach to transactions.
MPB’s complete commitment to the circular economy and environmentally aware practices doesn’t end there, though.
All equipment will be delivered in plastic-free packaging designed for easy reuse or recycling, with no inbound packaging sent to landfill. Additionally, MPB’s cloud-based technology and website platforms operate on renewable electricity sources.
Reintroducing quality used equipment designed for longevity back into the marketplace lowers the cost of premium gear for future users compared to buying new. It is far more sustainable than always replacing equipment with brand-new items. MPB-approved equipment is a sensible choice for both your business’ finances and the planet.
Originally published in the March/April issue of Pro Moviemaker.
