Here at HQ, we’re always on the lookout for upstarts providing creative solutions to that nails-on-chalkboard noun – BUDGET.
Sure, you can save some green by getting your creepy neighbor who “doesn’t believe in deodorant” to hold a boom pole, or a finally utilize that $50 Taco Bell gift card you had sitting in your car to feed your actors (Tongal does not endorse either of these budget saving tips), but the last place you want to cut corners on is hardware.
We love DIY cinematography to tell a story as much as the next cinephile, but brands understandably want their video content to look stellar. Stellar content, as you know, comes at a lofty price. While the prices of professional grade cameras are coming down from where they once were, some will run you that of a nice midsized sedan. And renting gear, up to this point, has been a necessary, and still costly evil.
Introducing, a perfect segue to, our newest Community Resource partner… ShareGrid!
ShareGrid can help bring your production to the next level by renting awesome gear from like-minded filmmakers at a fraction of the cost with an integrated insurance policy. Think – the convenience of Airb’n’b meets high quality Hollywood rental facility. We’re talking RED & ARRI Camera bodies, Zeiss lenses, professional light kits, mounts, and even fully stocked grip trucks.
In addition, if you own a nice midsize sedan-priced camera you can put it up on ShareGrid to get a little return on your investment!
As ShareGrid grows, we think they will change the landscape of video production in an effort to help filmmakers follow their passion wherever they decide to call home. Check out these tips from our friend Brent at ShareGrid on how to be a part of the ShareGrid community and get things started for your next Tongal project:
A FULL PROFILE IS A GOOD PROFILE
- Members are more likely to rent with you when you have a completed profile. It's a community first and foremost so everyone wants to feel comfortable knowing more about whom they rent with.
- Upload a clear profile photo, write a brief bio, share social media links, and showcase your work. Both renters and rent-ees want to know that you’re a real person! Check out this video on how to create your profile.
REVIEWS/REPUTATION
- Just like the entertainment industry, your reputation on ShareGrid is paramount. Like some other service sites, reviews go both ways. Last minute cancelations, bad communication, inaccurate gear etc., may lead to negative reviews and potential suspension from the community.
- If you haven't received many reviews, choose a price that's below average to help attract rentals. Once you've received a few positive reviews, you can always raise the price of your gear. People with good reputations have more leverage in pricing their gear higher. Speaking of which…
UPLOADING GEAR/SPACES
- It’s important to upload high quality and professional pictures of your gear/spaces. Original/professional photos help your gear to stand out from the rest and attract more views for potential rentals.
- Include as much information as you can, especially all tech specs and add-ons like mounts and lens type filters. In addition, your opinion and personal touch will help your listing go a long way. Watch this video to see how to upload gear.
INSURANCE
-ShareGrid has the first-ever integrated insurance platform for this industry. Convenience in 24/7 insurance. What used to take days now takes minutes and can be done at anytime! How to purchase short term insurance.
-When renting gear, you can purchase a short term or an annual insurance policy of coverage up to $750K within minutes all online. How to purchase annual insurance.
- ShareGrid also accepts and verifies 3rd party insurance in case you already have an insurance policy. How to upload 3rd party insurance.
-Damage Waiver. ShareGrid has a damage waiver option for items $5,000 and under that's very popular and they’re working on increasing this limit to $20,000 very soon!
Thanks Brent! So if you haven’t already, head to ShareGrid now, set up an account, and start getting your next Pitch together!
