What is the general process of renting equipment, specifically cameras? Apparently you have to put down a deposit, but the price I found seemed very steep: $2500. And then I still had to pay for the actual rental. I understand that you get the deposit back after the equipment is returned, but if I had $2500 lying around, I'd buy a camera. Am I missing something here? Or will I have to convince my parents to put down two grand for a deposit?

Thanks in advance guys.

What exactly are you renting?

Probably a GL2 that comes with a tripod and 2 batteries for $80/day. Also a Sennheiser 816 for $55/day. I'd only use the equipment for two days, three max.

that doesn't make any sense...Is a Gl2 even worth 2500?

No. Which is why I'm confused. The company I want to rent from is very legit so it's not like a scam or anything. I just want to know why the deposit is so much.

You probably get your deposit back when you return the equipment. Collateral.

It makes sense like that. Otherwise... I dunno. :P

Question: Have you tried bringing these questions to the company you're renting from? I imagine they have more knowledge than we do about that. ha.

Yeah I thoguht about that. I sent them an email but they never got back to me. I'll have to call them soon.

The thing about the deposit is that I don't have $2500. That was kinda the point of renting. I guess I understand why the deposit is there, I just want to know if there is anyway to make it cheaper? But Hooha is right, these questions are way better suited for the company.

Film rental places usually charge more for first time renters/non-members. They don't know your history, experience, professionalism etc and so want to cover their ass should someone destroy their dolly tracks or set their panavision camera on fire. If they know you, or you are recommended through someone they do know eg. corporate client, they should give you a better deal. This is what I found dealing with them in Australia.