buy or rent

[Steve Laramie]

When I DP I usually use the key grips or the productions rented or owned lighting equipment. However I have drifted over to directing more and I am shooting a feature in the summer and was wondering if I should buy or rent lights. I will be using them on a project to project basis, however that could be allot of projects. Just wanted to know some more peoples opinions.

 

[DM_rider]

I'm in the process of building up my own, small, yet solid light kit. You can start putting together your own lights, just get the lights that you know you will use the most. Then, if you ever do need to rent, you can always rent the lights that you may not use on a project to project basis. In the long run, it may be cheaper to buy your own lights, it just depends on what you're going to be shooting.

I've spent a little under $3,000 on lights so far and I have bought...
2x 650watt frenels from coolights (buying a 1,000 and possibly some 300's when in stock)
2x Lowel Pro Lights
slightly used 3 light omni kit on ebay for $450 (retails for around $1,200)
1 tota light with softbox (bought used)
2 1,000watt fluorescent softboxes.
Some small, cheap, home depot fluroescents (they work pretty well for $15)
Stands, Gels, Extension cords, sand bags, other small misc items you may need

and I have access to more lighting, flags, c-stands, and other grip gear at no cost, so I didn't buy much in the grip department.

I am very happy with what I have put together so far. I've definitely stretched my money further by being pateint and building my own kit.