8 Places to Find Camera Equipment Rentals in San Francisco

2121 Bonar St, Berkeley, CA 94702

Studio B Camera Rentals offers a variety of production gear and camera equipment rentals. The company is focused on video production and, overall, has a more limited offering than other rental companies. However, their catalog offers almost everything you’ll need for a shoot. They have a selection of digital cinema cameras, compact HD cameras, and DSLRs with good video capabilities. They also offer any other equipment that may come in handy, like monitors, tripods, microphones, and lighting.

Studio B’s rental rates are competitive for the area. In addition to equipment, Studio B also has its own scalable production crews available for hire, so you can bring in some extra hired guns to round out your team if necessary. They’ll put together a team that fits the size of your production, and handle all equipment delivery logistics.

214 Strawberry Village, Mill Valley, CA 94941

Mike’s Camera in Mill Valley is a smaller rental operation. While they don’t offer as wide a selection as other companies, the core of their selection is solid. Mike’s also has a good range of lenses, suitable for most photoshoots.

While the equipment list isn’t extensive, the rental rates are the best around. They have separate daily, weekend, one-week, and two-week rates, so plan accordingly. If you decide to buy from them, Mike’s will apply a portion of the rental fee to the purchase of new equipment, which is a great bonus if you try something out and end up loving it.

2117 Chestnut St. San Francisco, CA 94123

Fireside Camera is the oldest independently owned and operated camera store in San Francisco. Despite being a small operation, they have a good selection of new and used equipment. Plus, you’ll get the benefit of their highly experienced and knowledgeable staff that has a positive reputation in the community.

Since they’ve been in business for years, they’ve got plenty of used equipment for sale. They’re known to occasionally rent used equipment too if you see something you just have to have, so stop in and check them out. Additionally, they offer a variety of Fujifilm cameras and lenses for rent. If you’re interested in patronizing an indie shop with a long history, make Fireside your first stop.

529 Hayes St, San Francisco, CA 94102

Borrow Lenses is an online service that will ship camera equipment rentals all over the United States. However, they also have a local pick-up spot at Peak Design here in San Francisco. Just rent online and schedule a local pickup, and you’ll be good to go. They have an extensive gear selection for still photography: DSLRs, Mirrorless, Medium Format bodies, lenses, lighting, and support equipment. They’ve also got all of the best video gear around, and any lighting or audio equipment you’d ever want.

Their rates are competitive as well. The only downside is that your shortest available rental is three days. If you’re interested in delivery, they’ll ship to your home or place of business. But, it might be easier to go the local pick-up and drop-off route.

1336 Ninth Street, Berkeley, CA 94710

Chater Camera is another rental company focused primarily on video needs. They’ve got a catalog full of premium lens and camera equipment rentals, plus a solid array of lighting and audio accessories. Rental pricing is on the higher end here. However, their staff is knowledgeable and supportive, and they’ve got the newest equipment on the market.

If you need a piece of equipment that they don’t happen to have, Chater will find it for you and sub-rent it, but they’ll need 24 hours notice. They also know tons of people in the business. So if you need someone for your production, they’ll be able to recommend reliable talent.

Check out these studio photoshoot ideas in San Francisco to enhance your next Bayside photography project!

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