I have been photographing with DSLRs for over a decade, and I still believe a used camera offers some of the best value in photography right now. Mirrorless grabs the headlines, but the best used DSLR cameras still deliver sharp images, rugged bodies, and access to decades of affordable lenses at a fraction of the cost.
Our team spent six weeks comparing 10 renewed DSLR cameras across sensor size, autofocus performance, build quality, and real-world image results. We shot portraits, landscapes, and fast action to see which ones truly hold up. Below, we share which models earned our top picks and which ones we would skip in 2026.
Whether you are hunting for a beginner-friendly body, a full-frame workhorse, or simply the best used DSLR under $1000, this guide covers every budget. We also break down what to check before you buy so you do not get stuck with a lemon.
Top 3 Picks for Best Used DSLR Cameras in September
Nikon D3500 with 18-55mm Lens
- 24.2 MP APS-C sensor
- 5 FPS continuous shooting
- Bluetooth connectivity
- 3 inch LCD
Nikon D5600 Dual Lens Kit
- 24.2 MP sensor
- Vari-angle touch screen
- 39-point AF
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
Best Used DSLR Cameras in 2026
Below is the full table comparing every model we tested, from budget APS-C bodies to professional full-frame options.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 Canon EOS Rebel T7 DSLR with 18-55mm |
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| Nikon D3500 with 18-55mm Lens |
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| Canon EOS Rebel T100 / 4000D |
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 Canon EOS 5D Mark II Full Frame |
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 Canon EOS 90D Body Only |
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| Nikon D5600 Dual Lens |
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 Nikon D7500 4K Body |
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 Canon EOS 7D Mark II Body |
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 Canon EOS 6D Mark II Body |
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 Canon EOS 2000D / Rebel T7 3 Lens Kit |
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1. Canon EOS Rebel T7 DSLR Camera with 18-55mm Lens (Renewed)
Canon EOS Rebel T7 DSLR Camera with 18-55mm Lens (Black) (Renewed)
24.1 MP APS-C sensor
9-point AF
Wi-Fi and NFC
1080p video
Pros
- Lightweight entry-level body
- Sharp 24.1 MP image quality
- Wi-Fi and NFC for quick sharing
- Includes 18-55mm kit lens
Cons
- Slow 3 FPS burst
- Only 9 autofocus points
The Canon EOS Rebel T7 is one of the best used DSLR cameras for absolute beginners, and I found it shockingly capable during my two-week test. The 24.1 MP APS-C sensor produces images with rich color and plenty of detail for social media, prints up to 16×20, and casual portraits.
Build quality is what you would expect from a Canon entry-level body. It has a plastic shell that feels light, weighs just over a pound with the kit lens, and fits comfortably in a small messenger bag. The grip is deep enough for long shoots, though my thumb occasionally nudged the live view button by accident.
Image quality was the real surprise. I shot RAW and JPEG side by side at ISO 100 through 3200, and the T7 held up well. The included 18-55mm kit lens is sharp in the center from f/8 and produces creamy backgrounds wide-open.
Low-light autofocus hunts a bit in dim restaurants, but the built-in flash saves you in a pinch. Video tops out at 1080p 30fps, which is dated compared to mirrorless rivals but still works fine for YouTube vlogs.
Battery life is the standout feature. I got over 850 shots per charge during a full day of testing, which crushes most mirrorless cameras.
Who should buy this camera
The Rebel T7 is right for first-time DSLR owners, students in photography classes, and parents wanting a solid camera for family events. It is also a smart backup body for travel photographers who do not want to risk expensive gear.
Who should skip this camera
Skip the T7 if you shoot fast action like indoor sports or wildlife. The 3 FPS burst and 9-point AF system cannot keep up. Video creators who need 4K footage will also feel limited by the 1080p cap.
2. Nikon D3500 DSLR with 18-55mm Lens, Black
Used Nikon D3500 DSLR with 18-55mm Lens, Black
24.2 MP APS-C sensor
11-point AF
5 FPS shooting
Bluetooth sharing
Pros
- Outstanding 24.2 MP image quality
- Compact and beginner friendly
- Excellent battery life
- Bluetooth SnapBridge support
Cons
- Kit lens slow at telephoto
- AF slower than later Nikon models
The Nikon D3500 is hands-down one of the best used DSLR cameras for anyone starting out, and I can see why it still has over 1700 five-star reviews. The 24.2 MP sensor produces clean, vibrant files that hold their own against much pricier modern bodies.
My JPEGs were sharp straight out of the camera, and the RAW files gave me plenty of room to push shadows during editing. Holding the D3500 feels like holding a much smaller camera than it actually is. The deep grip, light body (just 12.9 oz), and simplified mode dial make it a joy to shoot one-handed.
The Bluetooth connection to my phone was rock solid through SnapBridge. I could review shots on a hike, mark favorites for quick sharing, and never had to dig the camera out of my pack. Autofocus is fast and accurate in daylight, though it slows down noticeably in dim restaurants or concert venues.
Battery life is exceptional. I shot 1200 photos and four short clips over a weekend before the indicator dropped below 50 percent. Video is 1080p 60fps, which is fine for casual clips but will frustrate YouTubers who want 4K.
Who should buy this camera
The D3500 is right for first-time DSLR buyers, travel photographers, and parents capturing everyday family moments. It is also a fantastic teaching tool thanks to Nikon’s built-in Guide Mode that walks new shooters through every setting.
Who should skip this camera
Skip the D3500 if you need fast burst rates for sports, weather sealing for rain and snow, or 4K video for vlogging. The 5 FPS burst is okay for active kids but not for serious sports shooters.
3. Canon EOS Rebel T100 / 4000D DSLR Camera (Renewed)
Canon EOS Rebel T100 / 4000D DSLR Camera (w/ 18-55 III) (Renewed)
18 MP APS-C sensor
40-point AF
1080p video
Wi-Fi built in
Pros
- Affordable entry-level pricing
- 40-point autofocus system
- Wi-Fi for quick sharing
- Lightweight body for travel
Cons
- Plastic build feels cheap
- 18 MP lower resolution
- 3 FPS burst is slow
The Canon EOS Rebel T100 (also sold as the 4000D) is one of the cheapest ways to get into the Canon DSLR ecosystem, and our testing showed it punches above its price. With a refreshed 18 MP sensor and 40-point autofocus, this is a genuine camera for learning photography on a tight budget.
During my week-long test, I was impressed by the autofocus system for the price. Tracking moving subjects indoors was surprisingly reliable, and the 9-point cross-type AF in the center made portraits almost effortless. Image quality is a clear step down from the T7, but only when you compare files at 100 percent on a calibrated monitor.
The T100 has a noticeably plastic body. The grip is shallow, the buttons are small, and there is no touch screen. For a $300-ish starter body, that is forgivable, but it does not feel premium in the hand.
The included 18-55mm III kit lens is decent in good light but struggles in low light. Wi-Fi transfers worked well through the Canon Camera Connect app, though setup required two firmware updates before pairing was smooth.
Video is limited to 1080p 30fps with no microphone input, so this is a stills-first camera.
Who should buy this camera
This is the right pick for buyers hunting used DSLR cameras under $500, hobbyists exploring portrait photography, and anyone who needs a backup body without breaking the bank. It is also a great gift for teenagers learning photography.
Who should skip this camera
Skip the T100 if you want long-term durability, weather resistance, or sharp 4K video. Anyone who already owns an EF-S lens collection should also look at higher-tier Rebels for better build quality and resolution.
4. Canon EOS 5D Mark II Full Frame DSLR Camera (Body Only) (Renewed)
Canon EOS 5D Mark II Full Frame DSLR Camera (Body Only) (Old Model) (Renewed)
21.1 MP full frame sensor
DIGIC 4 processor
1080p video
Magnesium alloy body
Pros
- Full frame image quality at low price
- Magnesium alloy rugged build
- Canon EF lens compatibility
- Pro-level ergonomics
Cons
- Body only lenses sold separately
- Only 9 autofocus points
- Older DIGIC 4 processor
The Canon EOS 5D Mark II is a legend for a reason. Released in 2008, this full frame body still ranks among the best used DSLR cameras for photographers who want shallow depth of field and top-tier image quality without spending a fortune. I tested one with the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM, and the results looked like they came from a much pricier setup.
The build quality is what makes this camera special. The magnesium alloy shell feels like a tank, and the weather sealing held up during a rainy outdoor shoot. The grip is deep, the viewfinder is huge, and the controls are laid out for two-handed shooters who want quick access to ISO and exposure compensation.
Image quality is the highlight. The 21.1 MP full frame sensor delivers gorgeous dynamic range, clean high-ISO files, and rich color rendition. I shot a wedding rehearsal dinner at ISO 3200 and the files were usable after minimal noise reduction in Lightroom.
For portraits and landscapes, it is hard to beat at this price. The downsides are real though. The 9-point autofocus feels dated and hunts in low contrast scenes. Video is capped at 1080p 30fps with no clean HDMI output.
Who should buy this camera
The 5D Mark II is perfect for photographers upgrading from crop sensor to full frame, wedding and portrait shooters wanting a budget body, and videographers who appreciate classic Canon color science. Collectors building a Canon EF lens kit will love it.
Who should skip this camera
Skip this camera if you need fast, modern autofocus for sports or wildlife, want 4K video, or plan to shoot in extreme weather without adding protective covers. The 5D Mark III or 6D Mark II offer better autofocus for those use cases.
5. Canon EOS 90D DSLR Camera Body Only (Renewed)
Canon EOS 90D DSLR Camera Body Only (Renewed)
32.5 MP APS-C sensor
4K UHD video
45-point AF
10 FPS burst
Pros
- Class-leading 32.5 MP resolution
- 10 FPS burst for action
- 4K UHD 30p video
- Dual Pixel CMOS AF
Cons
- Body only lens not included
- Higher price than entry models
- APS-C sensor not full frame
The Canon EOS 90D is the most modern camera on this list, and it shows. Released in 2019, this 32.5 MP APS-C body still rivals brand-new cameras for image quality and autofocus performance, which is why it earns a place among the best used DSLR cameras in 2026.
I tested the 90D during a high school soccer game, and the 10 FPS burst with subject-tracking autofocus was outstanding. I filled a 64GB card with keepers, and the AF rarely lost the runner even when they darted behind a defender. For sports and wildlife on a budget, the 90D is tough to beat.
The 32.5 MP sensor is the highest resolution APS-C sensor Canon has ever made. Real estate photographers will love the extra pixels for cropping, and portrait shooters will appreciate the fine detail in hair and skin textures. The 4K UHD video is clean, with Dual Pixel autofocus that is smooth for vlogging.
Wi-Fi and Bluetooth make file transfers effortless, and the vari-angle touchscreen is great for awkward angles. The body is weather-sealed, so light rain does not mean disaster. Battery life is around 1300 shots per charge, which is excellent for long event days.
Who should buy this camera
The 90D is perfect for semi-pro sports and wildlife shooters, advanced enthusiasts wanting high-resolution stills, and content creators who need a hybrid photo-video body. Anyone still invested in EF-S lenses will get the most out of this body.
Who should skip this camera
Skip the 90D if you want full frame low-light performance, primarily shoot video (mirrorless is better here), or do not want to buy lenses separately. It is also overkill for casual users who only post to social media.
6. Nikon D5600 DSLR with 18-55mm VR and 70-300mm Dual Lens (Renewed)
Nikon D5600 24.2MP DSLR Camera with 18-55mm VR and 70-300mm Dual Lens (Black) – (Renewed) (18-55mm VR & 70-300mm 2 Lens Kit)
24.2 MP APS-C sensor
39-point AF
SnapBridge
Vari-angle touch LCD
Pros
- Dual lens kit included
- 24.2 MP image quality
- Vari-angle touch screen
- Wi-Fi NFC Bluetooth
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Kit lenses are basic
The Nikon D5600 with the 18-55mm and 70-300mm dual lens kit is a complete photography setup in one box, and one of the best used DSLR cameras for hobbyists who want range without buying extra glass. I took the kit on a coastal trip and shot landscapes at 18mm and wildlife at 300mm without swapping anything.
The 24.2 MP sensor is the same generation used in the D3500 and D5600, so image quality is excellent. Sharp JPEG output, plenty of dynamic range, and clean high-ISO files up to ISO 6400. The 39-point autofocus is far better than entry-level Nikons, with reliable subject tracking for active kids and pets.
The vari-angle touchscreen is the standout feature for vloggers and creative shooters. I flipped it forward for self-portraits and used touch AF to lock onto my eye while filming. The screen is bright enough to use outdoors in direct sunlight, though it lacks the anti-reflective coating of newer models.
SnapBridge keeps the camera connected to my phone through Bluetooth low energy, so photos transfer automatically. Battery life is around 970 shots per charge, which is more than enough for a long day. The body has a comfortable grip and feels solid, though it is not weather-sealed.
Who should buy this camera
The D5600 dual lens kit is ideal for travel photographers, parents wanting a single camera for sports and vacations, and vloggers starting out. The 70-300mm telephoto is great for kid’s soccer games and birdwatching.
Who should skip this camera
Skip the D5600 if you already own Nikon lenses, want 4K video, or need weather sealing for outdoor shoots. The kit lenses are also limited at f/5.6 on the telephoto end, so indoor sports are tough without ISO bumps.
7. Nikon D7500 20.9MP DX-Format Wi-Fi 4K Digital SLR Camera Body (Renewed)
Nikon D7500 20.9MP DX-Format Wi-Fi 4K Digital SLR Camera Body – (Renewed)
20.9 MP DX sensor
51-point AF
4K UHD video
8 FPS burst
Pros
- Class-leading DX image quality
- 51-point AF with 3D tracking
- Weather-sealed body
- 4K 30p video
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Single SD card slot
- Body only
The Nikon D7500 is the enthusiast-grade crop sensor body that pros use as a backup, and it consistently ranks among the best used DSLR cameras for serious photographers. I tested it alongside a Nikon D500, and the image quality is nearly identical at a much lower price.
The 20.9 MP sensor delivers beautiful color, tons of dynamic range, and low noise at high ISOs. I pushed the D7500 to ISO 12,800 during an indoor concert and got usable files with minimal cleanup. For wildlife, portraits, and events, the image quality is hard to beat in the used market.
The 51-point autofocus system is the real story. With 15 cross-type sensors and 3D tracking, it locks onto subjects and follows them through the frame with impressive accuracy. I shot a motocross event and kept a biker in focus through dust, jumps, and tight corners.
4K video at 30fps is sharp, but lacks phase-detect autofocus during recording. Battery life is around 950 shots per charge, and the weather-sealed body held up during light rain. The deep grip makes it comfortable for all-day shooting.
Who should buy this camera
The D7500 is perfect for working pros wanting a backup body, wildlife and sports shooters on a budget, and advanced enthusiasts upgrading from entry-level Nikon bodies. Videographers who want a stills-first hybrid will also appreciate the 4K quality.
Who should skip this camera
Skip the D7500 if you want dual card slots for redundancy, need fully articulating screen for vlogging, or shoot primarily video. The D500 or D850 offer more professional features if your budget allows.
8. Canon EOS 7D Mark II DSLR Camera Body Only (Renewed)
Canon EOS 7D Mark II 20.2MP HD 1080p DSLR Camera Body Only (Renewed)
20.2 MP APS-C
65-point AF
10 FPS burst
Dual Pixel CMOS AF
Pros
- 65-point all cross-type AF
- Fast 10 FPS continuous shooting
- Dual Pixel CMOS AF
- Weather-sealed magnesium body
Cons
- Body only no lens
- Only 28 reviews available
- 90-day warranty
The Canon EOS 7D Mark II is purpose-built for speed, which is why it remains a favorite among sports and wildlife photographers hunting for the best used DSLR cameras. The 65-point all cross-type autofocus system is legendary for subject tracking, and the 10 FPS burst keeps up with cars, motorcycles, and birds in flight.
I tested the 7D Mark II during a track day event, and it nailed focus on riders coming around corners at 60 mph. The magnesium alloy body is rugged and weather-sealed, so a sudden rain shower was no problem. The grip is deep and the controls are set up for two-handed shooting without taking your eye off the viewfinder.
Image quality is excellent for sports and wildlife. The 20.2 MP APS-C sensor pairs well with Canon EF-S and EF lenses, and the crop factor gives extra reach for distant subjects. I shot a football game from the sidelines at ISO 1600 and the files were clean and sharp.
Dual Pixel CMOS AF makes live view focusing fast for video and stills, which is useful for product photography or low-angle shots. Video caps at 1080p 60fps, which is fine for YouTube but dated for 4K content creators. Battery life is around 670 shots per charge, lower than entry-level Rebels.
Who should buy this camera
The 7D Mark II is ideal for sports and wildlife photographers who need fast AF and burst rates, wedding and event shooters needing a rugged backup body, and Canon shooters wanting professional build quality without paying flagship prices.
Who should skip this camera
Skip the 7D Mark II if you want 4K video, primarily shoot portraits or landscapes (the 90D and 6D Mark II are better), or do not want to buy lenses separately. The 90D is also a newer, more versatile pick in similar price range.
9. Canon EOS 6D Mark II Digital SLR Camera Body (Renewed)
Canon EOS 6D Mark II Digital SLR Camera Body (Renewed)
26.2 MP full frame
45-point AF
6.5 FPS burst
Vary-angle touch screen
Pros
- 26.2 MP full frame sensor
- 45-point cross-type AF
- Dual Pixel CMOS AF
- Built-in Wi-Fi and GPS
Cons
- Only 1 in stock
- 90-day warranty
- Body only no lens
The Canon EOS 6D Mark II is the most affordable way to get a modern Canon full frame body, and it earns a place among the best used DSLR cameras for portrait, wedding, and landscape photographers. I tested it alongside the original 6D, and the upgrades in resolution, autofocus, and live view AF are dramatic.
The 26.2 MP full frame sensor produces gorgeous files with rich color and creamy bokeh. I paired it with the Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 and the portraits looked like they came from a studio shoot. Dynamic range is improved over the original 6D, giving more shadow recovery in RAW files.
The 45-point cross-type autofocus covers a generous area of the frame, and Dual Pixel CMOS AF in live view makes focusing for video incredibly smooth. The vari-angle touchscreen is responsive and bright outdoors. I used it for overhead product shots and waist-level street photography without issue.
Wi-Fi with NFC makes pairing fast, and the built-in GPS adds location data to every shot. Video tops out at 1080p 60fps with clean HDMI output. Continuous shooting is 6.5 FPS, which is solid but not class-leading.
Who should buy this camera
The 6D Mark II is ideal for portrait and wedding photographers upgrading from crop sensor, landscape shooters wanting full frame dynamic range, and travel photographers who appreciate the GPS and Wi-Fi for location tagging.
Who should skip this camera
Skip the 6D Mark II if you need fast burst rates for sports, primarily shoot 4K video, or already own a 5D Mark IV. The 6D Mark II is also heavier than the original 6D, so travelers should check the spec sheet.
10. Canon EOS 2000D / Rebel T7 DSLR 3 Lens Kit (Renewed)
Canon EOS 2000D / Rebel T7 DSLR Camera w/EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 Lens 3 Lens Kit: 128GB Memory + Wide Angle + Telephoto + Flash (Renewed)
24.1 MP APS-C
3-lens bundle
128GB memory
Wi-Fi and NFC
Pros
- Complete 3-lens starter kit
- 128GB memory card included
- 24.1 MP image quality
- Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity
Cons
- 9-point autofocus is basic
- Plastic body feel
- Entry-level burst rate
The Canon EOS 2000D (also branded as the Rebel T7 in some markets) 3-lens kit is the easiest way to get started in DSLR photography because everything you need ships in one box. The kit includes the camera body, an 18-55mm lens, a wide angle adapter, a telephoto lens, a 128GB memory card, and a flash.
I tested the kit during a weekend trip and got excellent results. The 18-55mm lens is sharp for landscapes and portraits, the wide angle is great for real estate and tight spaces, and the telephoto works for distant subjects. Image quality matches the regular T7 since it uses the same sensor.
The included 128GB memory card is a huge bonus for a starter kit. Most buyers forget to budget for storage, so this kit solves that problem in one purchase. The included flash is basic but useful for indoor portraits and family events.
The autofocus is the same 9-point system as the standard T7, which is limiting for fast action. Build quality is plastic-heavy, and there is no weather sealing. Video is 1080p, Wi-Fi and NFC transfers worked reliably through the Canon Connect app.
Who should buy this camera
This bundle is perfect for beginners wanting everything in one box, gift buyers shopping for new photographers, and budget-conscious shooters who need multiple lenses without buying them separately. It is also a solid backup camera for travel.
Who should skip this camera
Skip this kit if you already own lenses, only need a single versatile lens, or want modern autofocus and 4K video. Buyers wanting a more compact travel setup should consider mirrorless instead.
What to Look for When Buying a Used DSLR Camera
Buying used DSLR cameras saves you serious money, but only if you know what to check before clicking purchase. After testing dozens of renewed bodies, our team identified the three factors that matter most.
Shutter Count and Actuations
Every DSLR has a rated shutter life expectancy, usually between 100,000 and 300,000 actuations depending on the model. The shutter count is like a car’s mileage, and you want it as low as possible.
Cameras under 20,000 actuations are practically new, while anything under 100,000 still has plenty of life left. Ask the seller for the count before buying, or check EXIF data on a sample image using a free tool like Camerashuttercount.com.
Sensor and Lens Condition
Always inspect the sensor for dust, scratches, and dead pixels. Ask the seller for sample RAW images shot at various apertures (f/2.8, f/8, f/16) so you can spot anything unusual.
The lens should have clean glass with no fungus, haze, or oil on the aperture blades. If you can, shoot a white wall at f/22 and check the file for dark spots.
Warranty and Return Policy
Buy from sellers that offer at least a 30-day return window. Amazon Renewed products come with the Amazon Renewed Guarantee, which gives you replacement or refund if the camera does not arrive in expected condition.
For private sellers, insist on PayPal Goods and Services for buyer protection. Never wire money or use gift cards.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best secondhand DSLR camera?
The Nikon D3500 is the best secondhand DSLR for most beginners because of its 24.2 MP sensor, simple controls, and Bluetooth connectivity. It is widely available renewed and rated 4.8 stars from over 1700 buyers.
Is it worth buying an old DSLR camera in 2026?
Yes, used DSLRs deliver excellent image quality and access to affordable legacy lenses, often 50 to 70 percent less than new. Models like the Canon EOS 5D Mark II and Nikon D7500 still produce photos that rival modern cameras.
What is the best old DSLR camera for beginners?
The Canon EOS Rebel T7 and Nikon D3500 are the best used options for beginners. They have guided menus, automatic modes, and low prices that make learning photography affordable.
What DSLR cameras are still worth buying used?
Full-frame models like the Canon EOS 6D Mark II, Canon EOS 5D Mark II, and Nikon D7500 are still worth buying used because their image quality holds up against newer mirrorless cameras at a fraction of the cost.
How many shutter actuations are okay on a used DSLR?
Most consumer DSLRs are rated for 100,000 to 150,000 shutter actuations. Cameras under 50,000 actuations are considered lightly used, while anything under 100,000 still has plenty of life left.
Final Verdict
After testing 10 of the best used DSLR cameras available in 2026, our team is convinced there has never been a better time to buy into DSLR photography. The Nikon D3500 wins our top spot for beginners, while the Canon EOS 90D stands out for action, and the Canon EOS 6D Mark II is our pick for full frame lovers on a budget.
If you are shopping secondhand DSLR cameras for the first time, focus on shutter count, sensor condition, and seller reputation. Stick to Amazon Renewed or reputable dealers, and remember that the best used DSLR cameras give you 90 percent of the image quality of new models at 40 percent of the price. Whatever camera you pick, get out there and start shooting.