Checking Sony a6000 shutter count is relatively easy and you don’t need to be a tech-savvy person to do it. All you need is your camera, a computer, and an internet connection. But first, here are a few tools you can use to check the shutter actuations:
- Shutter Tool (formerly known as tools.science.si)
- EOSMSG
- Picture Information Extractor
- Camera Shutter Count
These tools are totally free but Shutter Tool is the easiest one to use. You don’t need to download anything and it works directly in your browser.
Using Shutter Tool
As I’ve mentioned, it’s the easiest tool for checking your camera’s shutter count. It will just take you 1 – 3 minutes tops to find out the number of actuations from your camera. Here’s how to do it:
- Take a picture with your Sony a6000
- Transfer the photo to your computer. Either use a card reader or hook the camera to a computer with a USB cable.
- Transfer your photo from your memory card to your computer
- On your browser, go to shuttertool.com
- Drag the photo into the box and it will automatically tell you how many actuations your camera has made.
There you go! No more wondering how many actuations your camera has made.
However, if you’re looking for something more advanced, Picture Information Extractor is a good alternative. It can do so much more than reading the shutter count.
It has a free version but you need to purchase a license to enjoy its full benefits.
Now, if you have other cameras like a Canon EOS 6D or a Nikon D750, you can download Eosmsg as it can support multiple brands and models.
Why does the Shutter Count Matter?
So why should you care about your camera’s shutter count?
Cameras contain moving parts that let light into a sensor. Those mechanical devices are more likely to break down each time they’re used. And the shutter is one of them.
It is an important part of your camera, so if it breaks, your camera will stop working, and you won’t be able to take pictures properly.
Knowing a camera’s shutter count is useful in determining how well it is kept.
If you are buying a used camera from someone, it’s important to find out how many pictures that person has taken. It’s like buying a car, you need to check its mileage!
If the shutter count is already high but there are no signs of wear and tear, you know that the owner took good care of it.
Please also read our article does shutter count matter where we covered this topic in-depth.
Sony a6000 shutter life
Sony a6000 has a rated lifespan of 100,000 actuations. It’s less than most DSLRs such as the Canon 6D and EOS 90D, which have rated lifespan of around 150,000 actuations.
However, you should bear in mind that it’s still a fairly high number. Even if you’re using your Sony a6000 every single day, it would probably take you 5 – 8 years to reach the 100,000 actuation point.
If you are a photographer who uses their camera sparingly, then it’s unlikely that your Sony a6000 will ever reach this lifespan.
Is a 30K shutter count a lot for a used Sony a6000?
I would say that the camera is still halfway to its rated lifespan. If the camera has no issues at all and if the price is right, then I would say that it’s worth buying.
30,000 clicks are not that many and if you really take good care of your camera, then it is quite possible that you could use it for a lot longer.
Don’t worry too much about it but don’t be too complacent either. If you are buying a used Sony a6000, then it’s important that you test the camera first and see if there are any problems with it.
You have to make sure that the camera works properly and that everything is in order before buying.
Want to know more about the Sony a6000? Check out these resources:
What happens when the shutter count is reached?
Most cameras have a shutter lifespan, but it is not something to worry about if yours has reached that point.
Your camera will continue to work as normal. And personally, I wouldn’t worry too much. I do have a few cameras with more than 100k actuations and they’re still working just fine.
Just continue to shoot a lot and most importantly, enjoy your camera!
Now, if you are a professional photographer like me, and you’re being paid to shoot, it’s recommended that you carry a backup body in case it fails during an important shoot.
That’s one of the worst nightmares for a pro photographer.
Is it possible to reset the shutter count?
Most cameras have secured software that makes it very difficult to gain access to them and alter their settings. It’s not possible to reset the shutter count intentionally.
In order to reset the shutter count, you have to replace the shutter itself. Usually, if your shutter fails and replaces with a new one, that’s the only time the counter starts again.
How do I know if my shutter is failing?
If photos are consistently overexposed or underexposed regardless of your settings, shutter failure may be to blame.
You may also notice that your images have strong light streaks across the frame, and your shutter won’t close or open correctly. If you’re experiencing this, then it’s time to bring your camera to a service center.
Can you replace the shutter?
Yes, it is possible to have a shutter replaced in your camera by taking it to a service center. The cost varies depending on the model but typically falls between $300 and $500.
If you’re looking for a more affordable option, then you may want to consider replacing the shutter yourself. But it is not easy and you might do more harm than good if you do not have the right tools or experience.
You can find guides online that will show you how to replace your shutter, but it is recommended that you take your camera to a professional for repairs.
My recommendation is, if you already know that your camera has a high shutter count, you should consider saving up either for a repair or a new camera body.
It’s actually a good excuse to upgrade to a newer camera, right?!
Should you worry about a high shutter count
If you’re shooting a lot, you should probably accumulate a high shutter count. This is true especially if you’re shooting weddings, sports, and wildlife.
Since you’re shooting a lot and at high speeds, your shutter count will increase quickly. But it’s not something to worry about!
Most cameras can go over the limit and still function just fine.
However, if you are considering purchasing a used camera and the shutter count is high (near 100,000 actuations), it may be better to look elsewhere.
It doesn’t mean that the camera will instantly fail, but it does increase the chance of future shutter problems.
If the price is really low and the camera is in great working condition, then it may be worth it to take a chance.
Just be sure to have your camera checked out by a professional before using it in any important shoots. As I’ve mentioned earlier, these cameras can go over their expected lifespan without any major issues.
Emma Lucy is the Founder & CEO of Emma Lucy Photography. She has over a decade of experience shooting weddings and other intimate events. She also tests the latest digital camera bodies, lenses, analog cameras, and other gear from Canon, Nikon, Sony, and other camera brands. She is From London and currently lives in the United States of America, where she spends most of her time as a self-employed professional photographer and writer.