London is a thriving hub for photography and videography, drawing professionals from around the world for its rich cultural history, iconic landmarks, and bustling creative scene. Whether you're a seasoned photographer or a budding videographer, access to high-end gear can make or break your project. Fortunately, London boasts a variety of top-tier equipment rental services catering to different needs, budgets, and experience levels. Below is a roundup of five trusted companies and platforms that offer everything from premium camera bodies to specialized lighting, ensuring you have the tools to bring your creative vision to life.

Wex Rental (formerly Calumet)

Wex Rental, previously known as Calumet, has long been a trusted resource for professional photographers in London. Whether you're an amateur looking to up your game or a professional on a commercial shoot, Wex Rental has a vast inventory of high-end photography and videography equipment. Their offerings include everything from camera bodies to lighting solutions, making them a go-to for both still and video shoots.

At Wex, you can rent cameras from top brands such as Canon, Nikon, Sony, and Fujifilm. They also cater to medium format shooters, making them an excellent choice for fashion or portrait photographers. Beyond cameras, Wex offers an extensive range of lenses, including prime, zoom, telephoto, and macro options. For those focusing on lighting, they provide studio lights, continuous lighting, speedlights, and an array of modifiers to fit your specific needs.

Key equipment:

• Camera bodies: Canon, Nikon, Sony, Fujifilm, and medium format cameras.

• Lenses: Prime, zoom, telephoto, and macro lenses.

• Lighting: Studio lights, continuous lighting, and speedlights.

• Accessories: Tripods, stabilizers, monitors, and audio equipment.

Locations: Whitechapel and Fitzrovia.

With locations in both Whitechapel and Fitzrovia, Wex Rental offers convenience alongside top-tier customer service. Their extensive range of equipment ensures that no matter your project’s requirements, you'll be well equipped to deliver professional results.

Direct Digital

Direct Digital is another top player in London's equipment hire scene, known for its high-quality gear and specialization in both still and moving image production. Their focus on premium camera and lighting solutions makes them a favored choice for professionals in need of large format and cinema gear.

Their camera inventory includes Canon, ARRI, RED, and Phase One models, giving professionals access to some of the most sought-after names in the industry. For those looking to create cinematic masterpieces, Direct Digital offers lenses from Zeiss, Cooke, and Canon L-series, guaranteeing pristine optical quality. Lighting options are equally premium, with ARRI, Kino Flo, and Broncolor lighting systems ensuring you can create any mood or effect.

Key equipment:

• Cameras: Canon, ARRI, RED, and Phase One.

• Lenses: Zeiss, Cooke, and Canon L-series lenses.

• Lighting: ARRI, Kino Flo, and Broncolor lights.

• Accessories: Motion control, rigs, grip equipment, and sound recording gear.

Location: Bermondsey, South London.

Located in Bermondsey, South London, Direct Digital is an ideal choice for professionals looking to push the boundaries of their projects with top-notch cinema and photography gear.

Fat Llama

Fat Llama takes a unique approach to equipment rental with its peer-to-peer platform. This setup allows individuals to rent out their personal gear, offering renters a wide variety of equipment that isn't always available at traditional rental houses. Whether you're looking for a DSLR, cinema camera, or something more niche like a drone, Fat Llama is a flexible and often more affordable option.

The platform's variety is impressive, with camera bodies ranging from Canon and Nikon DSLRs to GoPros and professional cinema gear. Lenses span a broad range as well, including offerings from Canon, Sony, and various third-party manufacturers. Fat Llama even caters to those in need of aerial shots, with several DJI drones available for hire. With Fat Llama’s peer-to-peer model, renters can find equipment in numerous locations across London, making it both a flexible and convenient option for those on a budget or in need of last-minute gear.

Key equipment:

• Camera bodies: DSLR, mirrorless, cinema, and GoPro cameras.

• Lenses: Canon, Nikon, Sony, and third-party options.

• Drones: DJI and other professional brands.

• Accessories: Gimbals, stabilizers, lighting, and audio equipment.

Locations: Various locations across London, depending on the lender.

If you're someone who enjoys finding unique or specific gear at competitive prices, Fat Llama is the perfect platform to explore. With countless options available across the city, you're sure to find the perfect tools for your next shoot.

Shoot Blue

Shoot Blue is a leading rental service that specializes in high-end film and video production equipment. This makes it the go-to option for hybrid photo/video professionals and cinematographers. Shoot Blue is known not only for its premium equipment but also for its exceptional customer service, ensuring clients have a seamless rental experience.

Shoot Blue's camera offerings include industry giants like ARRI Alexa, RED, and Canon’s C-series. Their lens selection features cinema favorites from Zeiss, Cooke, and Canon, ideal for filmmakers seeking impeccable optical performance. Additionally, Shoot Blue offers a range of professional lighting solutions, including ARRI SkyPanel, HMI, LED, and tungsten lights. Their vast array of audio and grip equipment further solidifies their status as a one-stop-shop for professionals working on both large and small productions.

Key equipment:

• Cameras: ARRI Alexa, RED, Canon C-series, and Sony FS series.

• Lenses: Zeiss, Cooke, Sigma, and Canon cinema lenses.

• Lighting: ARRI SkyPanel, HMI, LED, and tungsten lights.

• Audio & Grip: Full range of audio recording gear and grip equipment.

Location: North Acton, West London.

For professionals working on cinematic projects, Shoot Blue is an excellent option. Their specialized gear and knowledgeable team make them a standout in London’s equipment rental landscape.

Pro Centre

Pro Centre is a must-visit for those looking for high-end medium format cameras and lighting solutions. This rental house has become a favorite among fashion, portrait, and commercial photographers, especially those looking for top-notch lighting gear. Pro Centre's reputation for friendly service and flexible rental terms makes it an easy choice for professionals.

Their camera inventory includes Phase One and Hasselblad, both iconic brands in the medium format space. For those who prefer high-end DSLR options, Pro Centre also offers Canon and Nikon bodies. Their lighting selection includes Profoto, Broncolor, and Elinchrom systems, ensuring you have the right tools for any lighting setup. With an impressive array of tripods, light modifiers, and color calibration tools, Pro Centre covers all bases for photographers focused on precision and quality.

Key equipment:

• Cameras: Phase One, Hasselblad, and high-end Canon and Nikon bodies.

• Lenses: Medium format lenses, as well as prime and zoom lenses.

• Lighting: Profoto, Broncolor, and Elinchrom studio lighting.

• Accessories: Tripods, light modifiers, and color calibration tools.

Location: Shoreditch, East London.

For photographers focused on delivering high-quality results, especially in the commercial or fashion space, Pro Centre is the perfect rental partner. Their range of equipment and excellent customer service make them a reliable choice for any project.

Each of these rental companies offers a unique selection of photography and videography equipment, ensuring that whether you're working on a high-budget film or a small photoshoot, there's an option suited to your needs. London’s diverse rental scene is filled with professional-grade equipment that meets the standards of the world’s top creatives, so no matter your project, you’ll find the gear you need to capture your vision perfectly.

FAQs

Where can I rent high-end cameras in London?
Wex Rental, Direct Digital, and Shoot Blue offer some of the best high-end camera equipment in London.

What rental service is best for affordable camera gear?
Fat Llama's peer-to-peer platform provides affordable rates and flexibility, making it a great option for budget-conscious photographers.

Do any rental companies offer medium format cameras?
Yes, Pro Centre specializes in medium format cameras, including Phase One and Hasselblad.

Can I rent drones for photography in London?
Fat Llama offers drones like DJI models for hire, providing a range of options for aerial photography.

Which company is best for professional video equipment?
Shoot Blue is highly recommended for professional-grade video equipment, especially for cinematographers.

Where can I find cinema-grade lighting gear in London?
Both Direct Digital and Shoot Blue offer cinema-grade lighting gear, including ARRI and Kino Flo systems.