Major Equipment Rental Companies
DTC (Digital Technology Center) offers a massive inventory of film, photo, video, lighting, and grip equipment. Their fully-stocked truck packages cater to elaborate productions, and they provide cameras like Arri Alexa and Red Helium, as well as vintage lenses such as Kowa and B&L Baltars. DTC also offers in-house repairs for malfunctioning gear.
Samy's Camera, located at 1090 Bryant St., provides a wide range of rental options for photographers and filmmakers, including DSLRs, tripods, gimbals, studio lights, and audio gear. They offer flexible rental schedules, with gear picked up after 3 p.m. considered rented for the next day, and a 24-hour return window for early bird rentals before 3 p.m. Samy's Camera also provides package discounts for long-term rentals.
Express Media, situated at 2225 Palou Ave, is San Francisco's largest video production equipment rental company since 1989. They offer high-definition camera equipment from brands like Sony, RED, and Panasonic, suitable for both in-studio and electronic field production. Express Media promises to meet or beat any advertised prices on similar equipment.
BorrowLenses, based in San Carlos, offers an entirely online rental process for photo and video gear, with the option of delivery. They provide free shipping on rentals over $149 for locals and offer in-person guidance at their headquarters.
Peerspace is an all-in-one solution, known for their hourly rental production spaces. Many Peerspace hosts offer professional gear rentals alongside their studio spaces, making it convenient to book a studio and rent top-notch gear simultaneously. Their fully-equipped spaces in the Bay Area simplify the process of getting creative projects up and running.
- Element Camera, located in Emeryville, specializes in vintage anamorphic and spherical lenses. They offer Arri Mini and Classic cameras, Red Helium cameras, and vintage lenses, providing cinematographers with unique character for their shots.
- Elewa Camera in Alameda offers complete 360-degree VR camera rentals, including the pioneering Nokia OZO, perfect for creating immersive experiences. They are a top choice for those venturing into VR.
- Studio B Camera Rentals in Berkeley excels in video production offerings, providing digital cinema cameras, DSLRs, monitors, mics, and lighting. They also offer scalable production teams to assist with equipment delivery logistics.
- Chater Camera, also in Berkeley, focuses on premium camera and lens options for video needs. Although their prices may be higher, their up-to-date gear and expert staff justify the cost. They can acquire specific gear within 24 hours if not readily available.
- Fireside Camera in the Marina District has been a staple since 1954, offering a touch of history mixed with quality service. They focus on Fujifilm cameras and lenses and provide personal service from a knowledgeable staff. Fireside Camera also hosts meet-ups and community activities.
- Mike's Camera in Mill Valley offers a smaller yet robust selection with competitive rental rates covering day, weekend, and long-term options. They also apply part of the rental fee toward purchasing new gear if desired.

Specialty and Budget-Friendly Options
Element Camera, based in Emeryville, is a treasure trove for filmmakers seeking a distinctive visual flair. They specialize in vintage anamorphic and spherical glass lenses, offering options like Kowa, Lomo, Cooke, Zeiss, Schneider, and B&L Baltars. These vintage lenses can lend a unique, character-rich appearance to your shots, making them invaluable for certain cinematic projects. Element Camera also provides Arri Alexa Mini, Arri Classic, and Red Helium cameras, which, paired with vintage lenses, can help create a compelling, visually rich aesthetic for your project.
Elewa Camera in Alameda supports traditional filmmaking needs and takes a lead in the burgeoning field of virtual reality. They offer 360-degree VR camera rentals, including advanced models like the Nokia OZO, which captures 360-degree spherical video and surround sound, making it perfect for immersive storytelling. Elewa Camera makes VR accessible with flexible rental packages, providing the tools to make your vision a reality, whether you're capturing real-world environments for a VR project or conducting innovative marketing campaigns.
Express Media, located at 2225 Palou Ave in San Francisco, caters to the Bay Area's filmmaking community with state-of-the-art equipment from elite brands like Sony, Ikegami, Hitachi, RED, Panasonic, and Canon. Their extensive inventory spans ultra-high-definition cameras, studio setups, and field production accessories. Express Media's pricing match promise guarantees you'll get the best deal by meeting or beating any advertised prices on similar equipment.
These companies offer budget-conscious options as well. Express Media's competitive rental rates and the flexibility to match prices ensure you get the best value. Elewa Camera's unique VR offerings allow even those on a tighter budget to experiment with cutting-edge tech, while Element Camera's vintage lenses provide an affordable way to infuse a unique visual essence into your project without the financial burden of purchasing rare lenses.
Academic and Community Resources
The City College of San Francisco (CCSF) Cinema Department offers an impressive range of resources that can significantly benefit students and community members.
CCSF's Cinema Department loans out a variety of gear based on your level of study.
- Beginner-level students can start with user-friendly Canon DSLR cameras and Zoom recorders, ensuring they grasp the basics of filming and sound recording without being overwhelmed by overly complex equipment.
- Intermediate and advanced students gain access to high-quality gear including Black Magic Pocket Cinema 4K and 6K cameras, prime lenses, gimbals, soft LED panels, hard lights, grip equipment, and dollies. This comprehensive array of equipment allows students to experiment freely and develop a solid understanding of various filmmaking tools and their applications.
Fireside Camera, the oldest independently owned camera store in San Francisco, hosts a photography club meet-up every other Monday at the Maritime Museum. These meet-ups provide an opportunity to discuss the latest camera technology and techniques and a platform for budding filmmakers and photographers to exchange ideas and form lasting connections.
Many local institutions and clubs often open their doors for workshops and short courses designed to be informative yet accessible, ensuring that everyone, from hobbyists to aspiring professionals, can benefit.
Express Media, renowned for its rental inventory, also provides insightful guidance. Their knowledgeable staff can offer invaluable advice, often acting as unofficial mentors, which can be crucial when choosing the right equipment for your projects.
Collaborating with local institutions and equipment rental companies often brings about unexpected opportunities for hands-on experience. For instance, DTC's extensive involvement in various high-profile projects means that they sometimes offer support for independent and student films, granting access to cutting-edge gear and providing insight into industry practices and standards.
Leveraging local academic and community resources can dramatically elevate your filmmaking experience. Whether you're a CCSF student benefiting from their well-curated equipment lending program, a community member attending Fireside Camera's meet-ups, or engaging with Express Media's experts, these resources offer a well-rounded support system, ensuring that both students and enthusiasts alike can access the tools and knowledge necessary to bring their creative visions to life.

Safety and Theft Prevention Tips
Navigating the vibrant streets of San Francisco with your photography gear can be an exhilarating experience, but it's crucial to stay vigilant and proactive when it comes to safeguarding your equipment. The rise in property crime and theft in the city, particularly involving high-value items like cameras, necessitates precautionary measures.
Choosing your locations carefully is important. Some areas in the city have higher crime rates, and it's beneficial to be aware of these hotspots. According to crime data, theft from vehicles, often referred to locally as "bipping," is rampant. In San Francisco alone, there have been around 22,049 incidents of auto burglary in the 12 months leading up to September.1 Avoiding areas with high theft incidences and planning your shoots in safer neighborhoods can significantly reduce the risk of your gear being stolen.
Staying aware of your surroundings is equally important. While it's easy to get engrossed in capturing that perfect shot, it's essential to pay attention to people around you and their behavior, particularly in tourist-heavy or high-crime areas. Avoid walking alone at night or in unfamiliar places and try to have a companion when you're out on a shoot.
Adopting anti-theft gadgets can be a game-changer in safeguarding your gear. Trackers like Apple AirTags or Chipolo can be discreetly attached to your equipment to help you locate them if they go missing. Special anti-theft stickers and tags that trigger alarms when tampered with are also worth considering.
When it comes to securing your gear, less is often more. Try to carry only the equipment you need for a particular shoot, making it easier to manage and reducing the risk of theft. Backpacks designed with anti-theft features, like lockable zippers or hidden compartments, can offer an added layer of protection.
Locking up your gear when not in use is another crucial step. If you're staying at a hotel, utilize the in-room safe or a securely locked room to store your equipment. If you're out and about, never leave your gear unattended. Car trunks might seem safe, but they are frequent targets for thieves. Instead, consider renting a storage locker or a secure space nearby.
Insurance is your safety net. While it can't prevent theft, having insurance for your equipment ensures you're financially protected. Numerous companies offer plans specifically tailored for photographers and filmmakers, helping you replace your gear and get back to work with minimal disruption.
San Francisco is a gem for photographers, brimming with picturesque locations and vibrant scenes. But staying safe and protecting your investment requires diligence and the smart use of resources. Embark on your creative journeys with confidence and enjoy the process while ensuring your valued equipment stays secure.

- San Francisco Police Department. Crime Dashboard. Accessed April 10, 2023.








