Online used camera and lens store

Hobbyists, students, film photography fans and budget-minded photographers who want tested gear with a return policy.

You buy gear below resale value and sell it at a margin. Extras like bundles, trade-ins and selling accessories can add steady income.

• Knowing how to test cameras and lenses
• Spotting good deals and judging fair prices
• Clear photos and honest listings
• Careful packing and shipping

• Check your state's sales tax rules for online sales; marketplaces often collect tax for you in many states, but verify
• Check serial numbers on used gear to avoid stolen items, and keep purchase records
• Returns and disputes, since buyers may claim an item was misdescribed
• Shipping insurance for expensive items and general liability insurance for the business
• Running a business from home may need a home occupation permit and must respect HOA or lease rules
• Marketplace fees and payment processing costs can shrink your margins, so price with them in mind

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $3,000 to $15,000, depending on how much gear you buy for stock and how you set up testing, photography and packing. Starting small can keep your outlay toward the lower end.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $2,000 to $10,000, depending on your stock, pricing and sales channels. Revenue is not profit: marketplace fees and payment processing costs can shrink margins, so price with them in mind.

Check your state's sales tax rules for online sales, since marketplaces often collect tax in many states but you should verify. Also check serial numbers to avoid stolen gear, keep purchase records, and look at insurance and any home occupation or HOA rules.