Bird photography is a thrilling hobby. You spend hours studying your subjects, learning their behaviors in order to capture that perfect shot. But time and energy aren’t the only significant investments for a bird photographer—the equipment itself is also very expensive. There’s no getting around the hefty price tag of new, quality gear. That doesn’t mean, however, that photographers on a budget can’t find top-notch products: Buying gently used cameras and lenses will allow you to own equipment that might otherwise be out of your league. Whether you’re purchasing your first camera or looking to upgrade your lens, you'll find there are many options. Buying used for the first time can be intimidating. Here’s what you need to know to avoid sketchy sellers and other possible pitfalls while getting your hands on good gear. Invest in glass Camera technology moves at a rapid pace, with new versions of existing camera bodies rolling out annually and offering...