Getting in to the rental business

R

randomname

Well-known member
So I've been spending nearly every dollar I've earned lately putting together my camera kit and it's got to the point where it's something I'm very proud of. Now, I'm starting to wonder if it's something I can start to make money off of, directly. What I have is a 60D, cage, Trusmt FF, Nikon Prime set (28 f2, 35 f2, 50 f1.4, 85 f1.8), tamron 17-50 zoom, and Redrock Mattebox W/the redrock filter set (ND.6 ND.6 Grad, and a circular polarizer). My question is, is there much of a market for renting a kit like this, what kind of rate could I expect in a fairly large city (Austin), and how do I actually find people who would want to rent my kit?
 
You just sort of have to become known in your circle as that guy with the 60D kit. Just an example...I work a lot doing grip and electric work, through that I know a bunch of gaffers and DP's. I'm working on putting together a 1 ton package right now and once that's complete I'll just letting everyone know about it, maybe bring it on a job for free/cheap a few times just to show it around. Soon enough they'll get a job where they need a truck, remember me and how sweet my package is, and then they'll give me a call...The more people that end up working with it the better, as you slowly get known to more and more people as someone who has that package or that gear.

As far as what to charge? Look at the rental houses in your area, see what a similar kit would go for and rent it for that.
 
Thanks, thats good advice. Another question I forgot to ask is what (besides from getting them to sign a contract) is the best way to protect yourself from getting screwed when you rent to someone?
 
randomname said:
Thanks, thats good advice. Another question I forgot to ask is what (besides from getting them to sign a contract) is the best way to protect yourself from getting screwed when you rent to someone?
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Rent piles of stuff from commercial rental houses in your area and take lots of notes!
 
Make sure they can prove they have insurance. Or you have insurance that covers rentals that you add to the rental charge.
 
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