renting photogear

rob1891

Is this possible to do in Dublin? I'm looking for a 135mm f2 FD lens, have lost two auctions on ebay already and missed two occasions (friend's gig) to use it A third one is coming up and I'd really like to have something to use as well as my 50mm.

Now I realize FD is old so I might be better off looking for an EF body and lens. What are my chances, is there anyone that offers this kind of service and if they do are they likely to rent out $$$$s worth of gear an amateur?

Rob

Samson

FD lenses will not be the easiest to rent (if at all).
But, there are lots of FD lenses out there on the second hand market, Ebay is a good place to look, but don't discount the likes of Ffordes or MXV.

I have a Canon FD 135mm F2 lens myself, it's a great lens and ideal (along with the 85mm F1.2L) for gigs. I'm somewhat perplexed as to why it was not an "L" lens.

What model Canon have you got?
If it has a spot metering facility, make sure you use it during the gig.

rob1891

I've got a a1 with a 50mm f1.4 at the moment, so no spot meter. B&W photos come out quite well, but I know using colour will add a lot of complexity to the whole exposure thing.

been thinking about an f1n, but I'd need to track down the spot meter focus screen (only seen two on ebay but both unsuitable ... no focusing aids on them at all). a t90 would make more economical sense, but either camera would be a bit of an indulgence at the moment.

The lens you've got is the one I'm after, it's going for £350 on ffordes. If they take offers I might go to £300, though it's still a lot of money. As I said two of them have passed me by on ebay, I'm really kicking myself because one was in perfect condition and went for €300 ish which sounds like a steal.

Where would I go to then to rent say an eos 3 & lens, would they even consider renting to me and what would it cost.

Samson

You could try Image Supply Systems (Tel. 01 4782520), I'm not entirely sure if they do rent kit out. Also, they may only rent if you are a professional and can show them your PPAI card etc.

Although it galls me to say so, Conn(man)'s Cameras might be worth trying. They carry quite a bit of Canon stock, and I seem to recall hearing they have rented out kit in the past. Ask for Michael.

Expect to be pay a hefty deposit either way.

FinoBlad

DML also do rental. As Samson says expect a hefty deposit!
It would actually be cheaper to buy from Ffordes or someone and then sell when you are finished if u really dont want the gear.

U could try one of the rip-off dealers here in town to buy some used gear on "trial" and then give it back to them.
Screw Conn$ Cameras or B€rminghams and ul be a hero [ its was done before ]

rob1891

Thanks for the advise. Not sure about buy and return, would not want to end up with a credit note for either of those shops! I'll check out renting at Conn's and the other places though.

Rob

rob1891

had a ring around a few shops for the lens, nothing of the sort in stock, read on Conn's website that they charge 100+ for renting 1000+ worth of gear, so getting modern body and lens is too expensive also.

Luckily ebay has thrown one at me for the reserve: $200, some slight "cleaning" markings to the rear element. I hope that whoever is honest enough to say there are marks, is also honest in their description of them!

Anyway, if I can get it fedex'd by the 19th I am a happy camper!

Rob