BROKEN LENS DOESN’T MEAN BROKEN WALLET

Navigating the Costs and Options for Replacing Out-of-Warranty Camera Gear

By Saquan Stimpson

Originally published February 17, 2020.

Over the weekend, I had a photographer’s nightmare: my primary super-telephoto lens gave out during an assignment covering an XFL game between the DC Defenders and the New York Guardians. Lucky for me, I had my Canon Extender EF 1.4 in my bag, which extended the reach of my 70-200mm f/2.8L lens. While this setup isn’t ideal, as it requires significantly more patience compared to using a primary super-telephoto lens, it’s a workable solution for obtaining more reach in a pinch. What followed was an eye-opening journey through the challenges—and surprising solutions—of dealing with out-of-warranty equipment.

Here’s what I learned, and what you should know if you ever find yourself in a similar situation.

The Problem: Out of Warranty, Out of Service

Canon stopped servicing my EF 400mm f/4 DO IS USM lens in October 2018, leaving me without direct manufacturer support. If you own older gear that’s no longer supported, Canon’s official service centers won’t have the parts or the ability to repair it. This is an important consideration when purchasing high-end equipment—especially if you’re relying on it professionally.

I initially planned to send the lens to a third-party repair service, my go-to for out-of-warranty gear. But when I tweeted about the mishap, Canon USA’s imaging division (@CanonUSAimaging) responded, suggesting I contact Canon Professional Services (CPS).

Exploring Canon’s Options

CPS confirmed what I already knew: Canon no longer services my model. However, they offered an alternative—the Canon Upgrade Program. This program allows photographers to trade in older, non-serviceable gear for a discount on newer models.

Here’s how it worked in my case:

? New Lens Option: A 15% discount on the Canon EF 400mm f/4 DO IS II USM, bringing the price down from $6,899 to $5,864.15.

? Refurbished Option: A 10% discount on a refurbished model, priced at approximately $5,277.

While these discounts are helpful, they may still feel steep, especially for photographers working within tight budgets.

Thinking Outside the Box

For those unwilling or unable to spend thousands on an upgrade, other options exist:

? Third-Party Repairs: Always check with trusted repair services. If parts are still available, third-party technicians can often fix your lens for a fraction of the cost of replacement.

? Used Marketplaces: Platforms like eBay, B&H Photo, and Adorama are great resources for finding older models. I’ve seen lenses identical to mine sold in excellent condition at reasonable prices.

Ultimately, I decided to purchase a refurbished Canon EF 400mm f/4 DO IS II USM through the Upgrade Program for $4,139.40—far less than the retail price of a new one. My old lens will be sold for parts, recouping some of the cost.

Lessons Learned

1. Know Your Equipment’s Service Status: Before making a major gear purchase, confirm that the manufacturer still services the model. This is particularly important for professionals who depend on reliable equipment.

2. Leverage CPS Benefits: If you’re a Canon Professional Services member, take full advantage of programs like the Upgrade Program or expedited servicing for newer gear.

3. Have a Backup Plan: Always research third-party repair options and keep an eye on used marketplaces for potential deals.

Photography is an expensive profession, but navigating these challenges is part of the job. Whether you’re upgrading to the latest model or finding a used replacement, there are ways to keep costs under control.

I hope my experience provides insight for photographers facing similar dilemmas. Remember: a broken lens doesn’t have to mean a broken wallet.