Filmmaking is expensive. If you’re here reading this, you probably know that already. Whether it’s a prime lens for a music video or a fancy drone for that aerial shot… it all adds up.
With so much kit out there to buy and all of it costing so much, you just can’t have it all. Sometimes, you might be caught short but that’s okay, as you can just rent it.
Here is our list of the best options for renting film equipment. We’ve broken them down into different categories and price points.
Online Peer-to-Peer Sites
If you’re on a budget then this is a more cost-effective option but can have its drawbacks (availability and condition of equipment). Peer-to-peer rental is a growing industry that gives filmmakers access to high-end gear for a fraction of the cost of purchasing it.
The idea is pretty simple. Basically, the site allows people to rent their own equipment out to other people. This means you can start that project without having to wait until you can afford the equipment you need or if you only need it for short-term use.
Video Rental Houses
On a shoot with a decent budget? Video rental houses will give you the best bang for your buck in terms of overall quality, selection, and reliability. Also, equipment will be tested when it’s returned, which means that it is in good condition and ready to use.
Film Rental Houses
Finally, we move on to film rental houses. These are for shorts, music videos, documentaries, and full-end feature films with a big budget. The main drawback is that prices are usually not shown on the sites, so you’ll need to contact them directly to negotiate.
Things To Consider
Before you rent any equipment for your production, here are a few quick things to consider.
Support Your Local Camera House
Firstly, consider using your local film rental house. By building up a relationship with the people who work there, you could potentially get a better price, as well as access to really useful advice and expertise. Plus, it’s just nice to support your local, right?
Ask Other Filmmakers
You can search online for the best prices or simply ask your friends or colleagues who have used certain companies before about their experience and if they would recommend them or not.
Compare Pricing
Always get a few different quotes. By comparing prices from different companies, you can narrow down your search and find the best deal available. You also might find that some companies will offer discounts if you book the camera for longer than seven days or if it is being rented for business purposes. This can help stretch that film budget a bit further.
Consider A Niche Rental Company
This is a route that could save you money and also can ensure that the people you’re dealing with are experts. So whether it’s gimbals or underwater housing, finding an expert could help you figure out exactly what you need to hire.
Check The Rental Agreement
This is an obvious one but sometimes overlooked. Make sure you read the rental agreement so that you don’t get charged extra for returning equipment late and in the wrong condition.
Summary
As you can see, there are a lot of good options available when renting film equipment. However, it’s a combination of a few different factors that will decide who you go with, such as budget, reliability, availability, and quality.
