As a filmmaker, it’s not always feasible to purchase equipment for each shoot. Especially when you have to factor in the cost of maintenance, storage and insurance.
Additionally, if you have to transport your filming gear to different locations, it can significantly dent your profitability. Hence, renting is the best option.
Cost-effectiveness
When you rent equipment, it eliminates the need for large capital expenditure. It also helps you avoid ongoing maintenance costs. The cost of owning equipment can be a barrier for many artists and filmmakers. Renting film equipment is an economical option that can make it possible for them to create professional-quality content.
Another advantage of renting video equipment is its flexibility. It allows you to find the best camera package rentals or the most affordable lens rental to suit your specific needs and budget. In addition, if you’ve worked with the same rental house over time, they might be willing to lower their base rental rates for you.
If you are a newcomer to the field, it’s a good idea to build up a relationship with your local rental house. This can help you get the best price and access to really useful advice. Additionally, working with the same rental company can establish you as a client and can help you secure insurance that covers your rented equipment.
Versatility
If you’re a content creator on the go, video equipment rentalcan be a cost-effective solution for your filming needs. You can find a variety of options online, including cameras, lenses and lighting equipment. Most rental companies also have a Certificate of Insurance for their equipment and take care of any maintenance or repairs needed.
This can save you a lot of time and money in the long run. Additionally, many rental companies allow you to rent for longer than seven days. This means that you can keep the camera for a few more days for the same price.
Renting equipment is also a great way to experiment with different models without having to commit to purchasing the latest technology. For instance, if you want to use a new RED camera but are unsure whether you’ll like it, you can try out one for free before making a commitment. This will help you determine if it’s the right fit for your workflow.
Insurance
Large filming equipment requires a lot of space and often times needs to be stored when it’s not being used. This can be a major cost. Renting film gear reduces the cost of storage and allows you to save precious studio space for set work or client meetings.
Another benefit of renting video production equipment is that it’s 100% tax-deductible as an operational expense under the 179 IRS tax code. Check out our usage break-even chart to determine if this is an option for you.
Having access to the latest equipment is crucial for a videographer, especially when working with clients that expect a sleek and professional production. Renting equipment allows you to keep up with the latest technological advances and enhance your production value without a significant investment. It also protects you from the risk of your equipment becoming obsolete and hindering your abilities before you have fully recovered your investment. Whether you’re just getting started or a seasoned professional, rental options are becoming increasingly affordable and versatile for all filmmakers.
Storage
For starters, buying equipment is a massive investment and can often require a loan. When you rent, you avoid these upfront costs and can also rent gear for only the duration of your project which is ideal for small productions where the budget may be limited.
Another huge benefit of renting is that you’ll have access to the latest equipment on the market. Filmmaking technology is constantly evolving and purchasing your own equipment can become outdated quite quickly. Renting gives you access to cutting edge gear that will take your projects to new heights and attract more clients.
Rental houses also take care of maintenance and insurance so you don’t have to worry about these additional expenses. This allows you to allocate your budget towards other production related needs. Plus, you’ll save on expensive storage space and studio insurance as well. This is especially important if you need to travel between shoots and locations as your gear would be safe with the rental house.