FAQ
F.A.Qs on how to rent a professional camera or lens from BrainBox™ Cameras.
You've got questions, we've got answers!
General Questions
What cinema camera brand and lenses are available at BrainBox™ Cameras?
Just about everything! And we’re always expanding more. We rent out all of the major cameras and lenses, and if we don’t have something you need, we can usually track it down for you.
What kind of insurance and paperwork do I need to fill out?
Do I need insurance to rent?
Insurance is always recommended but not always required. But if you just need to rent a microphone, a tripod, or a lower-value camera or other item, we can usually just take a credit card deposit. You will be fully liable for up to the full replacement cost if anything happens to the equipment you rent however.
Will I save money by removing [blank] from a package?
Not necessarily. Our packages are built to maximize savings, but we can tailor any package to your budgetary needs. We recommend sending us a gear list that we can use to create a custom quote with. Alternatively, if you’re not sure what you need, you can let us know the specifics of your shoot and what your budget is, and we can advise you on the best package for your situation.
How does the 1 day weekend and 3 day week work?
It’s the best deal in town. Just think of Saturday and Sunday as one day. Pickup on Friday afternoon and return Monday morning for the price of a 1 day rental. Or if you need to keep the gear a full week, just pay for 3 days and keep it for 7. Need gear for a month or longer? Typically a month is a 9 or 10 day rental rate (depending on the type of gear) and rentals beyond that can get extra discounts!
How much footage can I fit on a REDMAG, CF Card, SD Card, etc.?
Like most forms of digital storage, it depends. Cameras, codecs, resolutions, frame rates, are all a factor. And many cameras use variable bit rate encoding, meaning it’s hard to estimate exactly. If you need to run for long takes, let us know, and we can add extra media to your order for low cost.
I need to rent gear for a long period of time. Can I get a discount?
YES! The easiest way to know how much is to ask. Remember, we have a best price guarantee, so if you actually find a lower price for gear elsewhere, we will beat it.
Do you provide crew to shoot/edit/produce/direct/etc.?
Yes! Brainbox™ Productions offers a full end to end production service, from help with development, through production, post and delivery. We offer these services on a case by case basis, so please just email or give us a call, and let’s figure out how we can shoot something amazing together.
What are your hours?
Our regular hours are Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, and Saturday from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm.
I need something I don't see on your website?
Yes! We try to keep our website up to date, but sometimes new products might not be listed. Also, with camera gear advancing so fast, we can’t keep every item in inventory. But if you want something in particular let us know, and we’ll try to get it for your shoot. Given advance notice, we can track down just about anything, and usually at prices less than most anywhere else.
Do you deliver or ship gear?
Yes! If you need delivery or pickup of the gear, we can usually assist for an extra charge. We also ship to most locations, using FedEx or Southwest Airlines Cargo, please inquire for details and rates. If you want us to ship your order you will need to sign the gear prep waiver form in your rental paperwork.
Do you charge late fees?
We generally try to work with our clients’ schedules to avoid late fees, however, in some instances we will charge a half-day or full-day charge for late equipment.
Student FAQ
Do you offer a student discount?
What is a "prep", and why should I take the time to do one?
I'm not sure what equipment I need, want, or can get on my budget. Can you assit me?
Whant more information about BrainBox Cameras.
Feel free to get in touch with us if you should have any questions, or if you are interested in our Los Angeles based camera rentals or film / video production services. We are a small company, owned and run by filmmakers for the benefit of the filmmaking community. We have many loyal clients, and strive to treat each client with the same level of service and respect, no matter the budget or size of your production. So come give us a try!