2011Steadi-Newbies forum
Renting out steadicam equipment when unable to use it personally
15 years old. Gear and prices may have changed since.
DisputedParticipants disagreed and reached no conclusion. Read the findings as positions, not as an answer.
What the thread found
- Renting gear to unknown operators carries significant risk of damage since people are less careful with equipment they do not own.
- Most professional operators prefer to own their own customized rigs rather than rent, limiting demand for rental equipment.
- Renting to trusted acquaintances with proper insurance and clear contracts is safer than placing gear with commercial rental houses.
- A revenue-sharing model can work where the gear owner takes a minimum rate plus a percentage of the rental price charged to productions.
- If the operator using the equipment lacks insurance, renting directly to the production company and paying the operator a cut reduces liability for the owner.
- Some operators choose to rent equipment only when they or an assistant can accompany the gear to ensure proper handling.
Depends on
- Discussion reflects primarily personal experience and anecdotes rather than comprehensive market data.
- Advice varies significantly depending on local rental market conditions and insurance availability.
- The 2011 timeframe may not reflect current rental industry practices or steadicam market demand.