Legit Places Where I Bought My Nikon and Canon Second-Hand Cameras and Lenses in Nairobi

I created this article to share everything you need to know when buying second-hand cameras in Nairobi and to highlight some genuine places you can visit.

My first camera was a Canon 250D in 2023. I bought it along Luthuli Avenue on the ground floor. I was just passing by when I saw some cameras on display. At the time, I did not know Nairobi very well, and that was the first camera shop I came across.

A camera costs a lot of money, and I did not want assistance from anyone because there are many thieves and scammers in Nairobi. I trusted the seller because he guided me on the best camera for a beginner. I had previously checked the price on Jumia, where it was selling for around Ksh 80,000, but he wanted Ksh 75,000, which I negotiated down to Ksh 70,000.

It was a good camera that produced clear videos and photos, and it served me well. Through it, I got several gigs. At one point, I was employed by a corporate company, and later I secured a high-paying job at a club.

John Camera – Bazaar Plaza

After about three years of using the camera, I felt it was time to try a Nikon camera. I posted the Canon 250D on the Facebook page “Professional Kenyan Photographers,” and I received several interested buyers from different parts of Kenya.

One serious buyer convinced me that he genuinely wanted the camera and asked me to meet him at his shop in town. He directed me to Bazaar Plaza, Moi Avenue, 8th Floor, Wing B, Room 833, Nairobi.

The man I met was called John. After checking my camera body, he offered me Ksh 40,000, which I felt was too low because I wanted at least Ksh 45,000. He then asked whether I would consider a trade-in. I accepted the offer, and he gave me a Nikon D5600, which was still in excellent condition. I only added Ksh 8,000, and he also included a prime lens.

Chriswave Media – Luthuli Avenue Junction

After working for about one and a half years at a club in Roysambu, I started getting gigs with popular DJs such as DJ Fulufulu and other major clubs. I then felt it was time to upgrade to a full-frame camera, the Nikon D750.

The D750 is effective in crowded environments such as clubs and events because it performs well and captures excellent images, even at short distances.

One of the best photographers in Nairobi, Shuge, introduced me to Chris. I visited his shop at the Rural Urban Building, opposite Archives, Stall G21 on the basement level. He stocks many quality second-hand cameras and accessories, including lenses, drones, and stands.

I traded in my Nikon D5600 for a Nikon D750 and added Ksh 30,000. A brand-new Nikon D750 costs more than Ksh 150,000 in most shops.

I Bought Another Nikon D7500 After My Camera Was Stolen

Unfortunately, Nairobi comes with many challenges. One of my friends set me up with a thief who ended up stealing all my equipment, leaving me with nothing.

It all started when he informed me that a client wanted wedding photography services. I travelled to Thika and met the supposed client at a hotel. The man tricked me and stole all my equipment.

After informing my father about what had happened, he agreed to give me Ksh 70,000. I went back to Chriswave Media, and he sold me a Nikon D7500 for Ksh 70,000 and also included a prime lens.

What to Note When Buying a Second-Hand Camera

1. Buy a New Camera if You Can Afford It

If you have enough money, go for a new camera because used cameras may have hidden issues and minor problems that you may not notice immediately.

2. Be Careful When Buying Online

Be cautious when buying cameras on Facebook and other online platforms, as there are many scammers.

3. Do Enough Research

Take your time and research different camera models, prices, and sellers before making your final decision.