When no count shows

Cameras that don't store the shutter count

Some cameras never write the shutter count into their photo files, so no photo from them will show a count. Here is why, model by model, and what to do instead.

First, make sure it is the original

The most common reason for a missing count is the file, not the camera. Photos that went through KakaoTalk, a phone transfer app or an editor lose their maker notes, so even supported models show nothing. Try again with the original copied using a card reader. Supported models are listed on the home page.

Canon

The Canon EOS R, R3, R7, R10, R100, R1, R5 Mark II, R5 C, R6 Mark III, R50 V and most DSLRs don't store the count in photo files. Either the file has no count field, or the field didn't hold up on public samples. The EOS RP is also not read for now, because the value couldn't be confirmed on samples.

A Canon service center can check the shutter count. When buying used, ask the seller for recent service records or repair receipts.

Sony

The Sony α9 III, ZV-E1, ZV-E10 II and RX/ZV compacts can't be read from files. The α9 III uses a global shutter and has no mechanical shutter, and no count field has been found in ZV-E1 and ZV-E10 II files. Sony menus don't show the count either, so a service center check is the reliable route.

OM System, Olympus, Panasonic and Leica

These brands don't store the count in photo files. OM System and Olympus bodies, and some Panasonic and Leica models, show the shutter count in a hidden service menu. The way in differs by model, so asking the maker's service center is the safe choice.

Judging condition without a count

Run the sensor dust and hot pixel test.
Hold a burst and listen for an even shutter sound with no hesitation.
Go through the used camera buying checklist for the body, buttons and accessories.
Look up the official registration and warranty to estimate when it was bought. See the Canon and Sony pages.

If your model isn't listed

Models in neither list haven't been checked yet. Drop an original photo and use 'Help support this model' on the result to send the file structure we need. No photo, serial or location is sent. The privacy notice lists exactly what is sent.