In the world of filmmaking, the equipment you choose for your filmmaking endeavours is the difference between being good and being great. You need high-quality camera equipment to capture the nuances of your story and produce professional-grade footage.
Fortunately for you, London, a thriving hub of entertainment filled with creatives, offers a range of rental options for camera and lighting gear hire.
However, not all rentals are equal and we’d like to help you avoid wasting your money.
Use these best practices when renting camera and lighting gear in London to secure only the best equipment for your next project.
1. Understanding Your Project Requirements
Before you approach any rental companies, you need to figure out what exactly it is you need.
So, what are the specific requirements of your project? Are you doing a short film or a documentary? How long will you be filming? How big is your project? Use your storyboard and meet with your team to figure out exactly what you’ll need and when.
It’s also important to consider your budget in this phase. Renting camera and lighting equipment can be expensive. Renting beyond your means puts your whole project at risk. It’s important to consider what your budget is to balance equipment quality with your project resources.
2. Researching Rental Companies
Once you know what you need, start researching rental companies. Find rental services that match your price range and have the equipment you need. Once you’ve shortlisted your options, look up their reputation through review sites and forums. Positive testimonials from other filmmakers are a huge plus.
Next, get quotes and compare the prices and services they offer. Their packages will differ, with some offering more than others.
A great example is Sugarland. Sugarland is a bespoke London camera rental service and is well known for its high-quality gear and exceptional customer service. Sugarland offers customised rental solutions to fit the specific needs of your project, ensuring you always capture the best shot.
3. Booking in Advance
When you find a rental company that you like, make a booking with them as soon as possible.
By booking in advance, you ensure you have the equipment you need for your filming dates. Availability is not guaranteed and waiting too long could delay your project if other filmmakers already rent the equipment.
Booking early may also come with some financial benefits. Urgent bookings and peak season bookings cost more, so advanced planning and booking can save you a pretty penny.
4. Inspecting Equipment Before Renting
Before finalising your rental, you need to thoroughly inspect the equipment to ensure everything is in good condition. Check all lenses, batteries, and cables, and make sure everything is working as it should.
Rental services have policies surrounding damaged equipment and related refunds. By checking the equipment, you can avoid future delays and be held responsible for any equipment failures.
5. Understanding Rental Agreements
Understanding rental agreements can be tricky. However, there are three clauses you should always keep in mind: rental duration, insurance, and deposits. These are the clauses that affect fees, so understanding them is critical in avoiding additional charges. Don’t hesitate to ask questions.
Rental duration, in particular, is important. If you are renting the equipment long term, discuss discount options with the rental service and make sure it’s in the rental agreement.
6. Picking the Right Gear for Different Types of Shoots
The equipment you rent depends on the type of shoot you’re doing.
For example, short films work best with lightweight cameras like the Canon EOS C300 or Sony FS7. Commercials or movies, on the other hand, use high-end cameras like the RED Epic to capture more cinematic shots.
Lighting varies too, with smaller projects using portable LED lights like the Aputure Light Storm series and larger narrative sets the ARRI SkyPanel series. Choose the equipment that will help you capture your desired visuals.
7. Handling and Transporting Gear
Always use protective cases and secure packing methods to safely move camera equipment between sets. Also, avoid exposing the equipment to extreme temperatures or sunlight. Lastly, always keep the equipment in a safe, dry, and clean environment.
8. Working with Rental Company Technicians
Another service you’ll find with rental companies is technician services. Technicians have in-depth knowledge of the equipment and can be a huge benefit to your project. It’s also the best way to guarantee that you use the equipment to the best of your ability.
Don’t hesitate to hire a technician if your budget allows it. Utilize their expertise and build a good rapport. Who knows? You could work with the same technician on a future project.
9. Returning Equipment
Always return your rented equipment by the date stipulated in the rental agreement. Any later and you’ll find yourself paying additional charges. It’s also important to return the equipment in good condition, so clean and pack all items as received, and ensure every item is accounted for.
Returning the equipment on time and in good condition will save you time and money. And it will help you build a good relationship with your rental company, which you can use to your advantage on future projects.
10. Leveraging Additional Services
Lastly, most Londow rental services offer additional services to help filmmakers. Gear insurance, on-set support, and equipment tutorials are just a few examples.
Don’t hesitate to take advantage of these services if your budget allows it. These additional services are the best way to get the most out of your rental and can teach you and your crew a lot about the filming process – which you can leverage with future projects.
