Camera Hire News (Blog)

Posted on

Camera Hire Alexandria now open

Camera Hire has just opened a brand new inner-city location in Alexandria, Sydney.

We started 11 years ago in Manly on Sydney’s Northern beaches and have been steadily growing since. Our equipment range includes high-end cinema cameras, lenses, audio and lighting equipment. Australia-wide delivery is also available.

Many of our long-term clients are based in the inner city. This created demand for a convenient Sydney city location. Launching our new space in Alexandria enables us to provide a high-level service in the Sydney city area.

Brookvale will remain our headquarters with Alexandria being a satellite space. Both locations have on site gear-checking. However our Brookvale headquarters is more suited to larger productions.

We are very excited to be expanding into Alexandria, and look forward to serving both old and new clients from this location.

The address for our new Alexandria store:

Camera Hire Alexandria
Workit Spaces
B1/13-21 Mandible Street
Alexandria
NSW 2015

Posted on

RED Authorised Rental House – Camera Hire Australia

Australian rental house Camera Hire have just become a RED Authorised Rental House. Camera Hire is only the third Australian-based company (and second Australian-owned) to receive the accreditation.

Camera Hire’s Bevan Dally explained, “It’s fantastic to receive recognition for the service and support we offer… Becoming a RED Authorised Rental House also enables us to provide an even greater level of support to Productions that are shooting RED.”

RED Monstro 8K VV

Camera Hire’s stock of RED cameras include the Monstro 8K VV, Helium 8K S35, Gemini 5K S35 and Scarlet-W 5K S35 cameras. Becoming an Authorised Rental House also opens access to the newly-announced RED Ranger production camera. Dally explains, “We’ve had a strong offering and relationship with RED for a while now and look forward to continuing that partnership.

We’re also excited about the future, particularly as RED are showing they are listening to their client base, including rental houses.” RED has just expanded their Authorised Rental House Program to include access to a large loaner-pool of cameras and the option to purchase the new RED Ranger (which is available to RED Authorised Rental Houses only).

For more on RED Digital Cinema cameras go to: https://www.red.com

Posted on

Canon C200 4K Cinema Camera Announced

Canon C200 4K Cinema CameraThe Canon C200 cinema camera has just been announced. This camera features 4K internal recording to CFast 2.0 or SD Card, Duel-pixel AF and the new Canon Cinema RAW Light format. See press release below:

Sydney, Australia, 31 May 2017 – Canon today announces the launch of the EOS C200, the latest addition to the esteemed Cinema EOS range. Offering exceptional creativity and flexibility, the new 4K compact digital cinema camera is perfect for a broad range of imaging professionals.

As the first Cinema EOS camera to support the new RAW recording format – Cinema RAW Light – the EOS C200 provides the same flexibility in colour grading as Cinema RAW in a smaller file size, enabling filmmakers to record internally to a CFast 2.0TM card.

Newly developed Canon Dual DIGIC DV6 processors provide the ability to record internally 4K UHD/50P MP4, 4K DCI RAW and continuous 120fps High Frame Rate (HFR) in Full HD without crop. At the same time, advances in Dual Pixel CMOS Auto Focus (AF) technology and a new touch screen LCD monitor provide smooth AF operation and effective tracking.

EOS C200 – key features

 Internal 4K recording with Cinema RAW Light and MP4 format

 Continuous 120fps (maximum) High Frame Rate with no cropping at Full HD

 Up to 15-stops dynamic range (Cinema RAW Light)

 Professional High Quality image and audio

 Dual Pixel CMOS AF with touch control and extensive shooting functions

 Easy operation and flexible configuration

Capability drives creativity

The EOS C200 features Canon’s 4K Super 35mm CMOS sensor with an effective pixel count of 8.85MP, along with the newly developed Dual DIGIC DV6 image processors. As a result, it can deliver Cinema RAW Light recording at 4K DCI 50P internally to a CFast 2.0TM card. It can also deliver 4K UHD recording at 150Mbps, and 2K or Full HD at 35Mbps to SD cards in MP4 format.

Supporting up to 15-stops of dynamic range with Cinema RAW Light and up to 13-stops of dynamic range in MP4 (Canon Log / Log 3), the camera is perfect for capturing highlight and shadow details.

The EOS C200 is also capable of delivering both slow and fast motion recording at up to 120fps with no crop in Full HD/MP4, ideal for those wanting creative slow motion capture.

An ISO range of 100 to 102,400 guarantees excellent performance, even in difficult lighting conditions, such as when quickly switching between locations. The built-in optical ND filters of up to 10 stops provide further flexibility and convenience, allowing filmmakers to shoot in bright light and expand the depth of field control.

Advanced operability and ergonomic design

Built for professionals and ideal for single shooters, the EOS C200 features an advanced AF system that provides reliability and accuracy when shooting 4K, as well as a touch screen LCD panel for filmmakers to easily select their subject. For those who need to switch effortlessly between several subjects in a single shot, the Dual Pixel CMOS AF enables smooth AF operation whilst the Manual Focus Assist Function, Face Detection with Face Priority and Face-Only options provide greater creative focus control.

The EOS C200’s lightweight body of just 1.4kg is designed for comfortable hand-held shooting and will benefit those who are filming for long periods. The compact size also makes the camera suitable for mounting onto a drone or gimbal.

Built-in Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity allows for browser remote control and the ability to transfer files via FTP, whilst the camera’s compatibility options mean new and existing accessories can be used, including Canon’s electronic viewfinder – the EVF-V70.

Cinema RAW Light for next generation workflows

Canon has worked with several partners to ensure Cinema RAW Light is integrated with various software programs. As a result, editing and grading of the Cinema RAW Light video format will be supported in DaVinci Resolve of Blackmagic Design. Editing will be possible in Media Composer from Avid Technology, using Canon RAW Plugin for Avid Media Access2. This format can also be processed using a Canon application, Cinema RAW Development.
Support for Cinema RAW Light is also scheduled for EDIUS Pro, Grass Valley’s editing software during 2017. Additionally, a future version of Final Cut Pro X from Apple Inc. will support Canon’s Cinema RAW Light, using Canon RAW Plugin for Final Cut Pro X4

Future Firmware upgrade

Canon’s XF-AVC video format will be available with a future firmware upgrade. This upgrade is free of charge and is planned to be available from 1H 2018.

Posted on

New Arri Lighting Equipment Available

Arri-HMI-Light

Struggling with shooting wide open? Pushing your ISO a little higher than you would like? Or just looking to add a little more depth to your lighting, Camera Hire now has you covered. We’ve recently added an entire line-up of new lighting gear, big and small, to help make your images really shine!

For those of you needing some real punch the Arri M18 HMI is the perfect solution. The strongest light you can run off a 20A household circuit, the M18 provides 70% more light output than a 1.2K HMI with the same spectacular daylight colour renditioning.

If colour temperature control and power draw are a concern look no further than the Arri LC-7 LED. An LED fixture that ranges from 2,700 Kelvin to 10,000 Kelvin, along with full tint control, the LC7 can match to any lighting scenario. The impressive LED technology also enables full dimming from 0-100 and provides the equivalent of a 750watt Fresnel at only 25% of the power draw.

If you can’t get past the golden glow of your traditional tungsten light, we now have a range of Arri Tungsten Fresnels ranging from 300w, Arri T1 and Arri T2 fixtures, suitable for any interior scenario big or small.

Aside from the main acts we also have a Filmgear 400W HMI Deluxe Kit, a 200W Joker Bug HMI and two Arri Studio 250W Ceramic Fixtures.

If you’re looking to diffuse, cut, shape or otherwise manipulate your lighting sources we now also have a range of fabrics, cutters, scrims and frames to suit any lighting scenario.

So get in touch with us to discuss how best to become a master of the light and the shadow, like all your favourite award winning cinematographers.

Disclaimer: Cinematography awards not guaranteed.

 

Arri-300W-LightArri-L7-C-Light

 

Posted on

Canon C300 Mark II, XC10 Cameras Announced

Canon C300 Mark II

[UPDATE] Camera Hire now has two Canon C300 mark II cinema cameras in stock and available for hire.

Canon has announced two new 4K cameras: the C300 Mark II Digital Cinema Camera and the XC10 4K Compact Camcorder.

Canon C300 Mark II
Canon C300 Mark II

The C300 Mark II features several major upgrades, including the ability to record 10/12-bit 4K video at either DCI 4K or Ultra HD resolution internally to CFast 2.0 cards. Additional features include 4K Raw output over 3G-SDI, a 4K-capable HDMI 2.0 output, and a new OLED electronic viewfinder.

C300 Mark II Highlights

  • Super 35mm CMOS Sensor
  • 4K,1920×1080 60/50i, 23.98/25p True 24p
  • Canon XF Codec – 4:2:2 50 Mb/s MPEG-2
  • EF Lens Mount
  • Dual Pixel CMOS AF
  • Rotating 4″ LCD Monitor
  • 2x 3D-SDI Output, 2x SLR Inputs
  • 2x CFast Card Slots
  • Timecode I/O, Genlock In & Sync Out
  • Canon Log Gamma
Canon XC10
Canon XC10

The XC10 brings 4K to a compact, versatile system that incorporates a built-in 10x f/2.8-5.6 zoom lens, flip-out 3.0″ LCD touchscreen, and a 90-degree rotatable handgrip. Its 1″-type CMOS sensor delivers 8-bit 422 video up to Ultra HD at 24 and 30 fps to CFast 2.0 memory cards. In addition to 4K video, the camera can also capture 12-megapixel photos independently, or extract still images while recording or playing back video.

XC10 Highlights

  • 1″ CMOS Sensor and DIGIC DV 4 Processor
  • UltraHD 4K at 29.97/25/23.98p
  • H.264 Recording in MFX Wrapper
  • Up to 305 Mbps 4K / 50 Mbps HD Recording
  • SDHC/SDXC and CFast Card Slots
  • HDMI Output – Supports 4K Monitoring
  • 10x Zoom / 8.9 to 89mm Focal Length
  • f/2.8 to 5.6 Aperture Range
  • 100 to 20,000 ISO Range
  • Ergonomic Tilting Hand Grip


Posted on

New look website, Sony 28-135 PZ Lens

Sony FE PZ 28-135mm f/4 G OSS Lens

We’ve recently made a few changes to our website – it’s always an ongoing task refining and improving the website, this time around we’ve improved the functionality of the site on mobile platforms, making it far easier to browse all of our equipment on iPhone, Android and any other small screen medium.

In other news – we’re excited to add the new Sony power zoom optic to our list of E-mount glass compatible with the FS7, A7S and FS700 cameras. The FS7 cameras in particular have had an amazing reception over the last few months! Specifications can be read below,

FE PZ 28-135mm F4 G OSS

  • New ‘Smooth Motion Optics’ design for serious movie-makers
  • Smooth and silent drive with Super Sonic wave Motor (SSM) for zooming and “double linear motor” for focusing
  • Separate focus, iris and zoom rings for professional operation
  • Optical SteadyShot in-lens image stabilisation
  • Compact and portable with dust and moisture resistant design

Sydney, 12 September 2014 –Now Sony offers photographers and movie-makers a potent new creative tool: the first ever full-frame powered zoom lens for Sony’s α camera range.

Designed and engineered to uncompromising standards, the FE PZ 28-135mm F4 G OSS (SELP28135G) offers videographers and film-makers immense expressive power. It’s an ideal partner for cameras such as the 35mm full-frame α7S, capturing enormous amounts of flawless detail whether you’re shooting 4K video, Full HD or stills.

The SELP28135G is compatible with all Sony E-mount cameras and camcorders. Its focal length extends over an even wider 42-202.5mm (35mm equivalent) range when attached to bodies with an APS-C sensor. These include Sony’s α6000/α5100 cameras as well as pro-friendly Super 35mm format camcorders like the NEX-FS700 or new PXW-FS7.

A constant F4 maximum aperture lets movie-makers and still photographers achieve beautiful depth of field effects and stable exposure control across the entire zoom range, from wide-angle to telephoto.

A constant F4 maximum aperture lets movie-makers and still photographers achieve beautiful depth of field effects and stable exposure control across the entire zoom range, from wide-angle to telephoto.

The needs of serious film-makers are catered for with Sony’s new ‘Smooth Motion Optics’ design philosophy. Targeting the highest possible image quality when using large-sensor cameras, this advanced optical/mechanical design addresses three issues of prime concern to movie-makers: change in angle of view (‘breathing’) while focusing, focus shifts during zoom and movement of the optical axis during zoom.

In addition, aspherical lens elements suppress unwanted aberration while advanced multi-coating technology boosts contrast and cuts glare, even with strongly backlit scenes.

Handling and ergonomics of the SELP28135G are indebted to Sony’s professional cameras for broadcasters and film-makers. Three separate rings offer independent control over focus, zoom and aperture (iris), with optimal torque for a satisfyingly responsive, professional feel. Even the pitch of scalloping on the rings has been painstakingly designed for comfortable, slip-free fingertip control.

In an industry first, the zoom is powered by the SSM drive and is exceptionally smooth and silent – a must-have for professional movie production. Zooming speed can be precisely controlled over a wide range, with the ability to switch zoom rotation direction as desired to suit personal preference.

Focus noise is also minimised by reducing the weight of the focus element group and driving with a responsive “double linear motor”. As an extra refinement, focusing mode can be switched effortlessly from auto to manual simply by sliding the focus ring, without fumbling to find a focus mode switch midshot.

Premium optical performance and operability are complemented by a dust and moisture-resistant design, making the lens ideal for location use. Extra versatility is afforded by Optical SteadyShot that provides in-lens image stabilisation during handheld shooting. Despite its heavyweight credentials, the lens’s compact dimensions and reduced weight are especially welcome in shooting situations where maximum mobility is needed

Posted on

Camera Hire’s Sony Range Boosted

Sony FE 70-200mm f/4.0 G OSS Lens

Lovers of Sony will be pleased this New Year as Camera Hire adds three new lenses and an external flash to our growing range.Sony FE 70-200mm f/4.0 G OSS Lens

The all new Sony 16-35mm f/424-70mm f/4 and 70-200mm f/4 lenses each boast superior optics, a constant f/4 maximum aperture offering consistent performance throughout the zoom range and Optical SteadyShot image stabilisation, which serves to minimise the appearance of camera shake by up to four shutter speed steps.

Also new is the Sony HVL-F60M Flash, a dedicated external flash and video light designed for both photographers and videographers. The HVL-F60M delivers high-illumination output with an effective range of more than 90′ (28 m) and guide number 60. High Speed Synchronisation mode enables the flash to sync with shutter speeds from 1/500 to 1/4000 of a second to catch fast-moving subjects.

All three Sony lenses and the HVL-F60M Flash are compatible with the very much in demand A7s Mirrorless Digital Camera. The lenses can also be used with the Sony FS7 and FS700 video cameras, without the need for a lens adapter.


Based in Sydney, Camera Hire services photographers and film-makers throughout Australia. We stock a huge range of cameras, lenses and accessories. Our brands include Sony, Canon, Nikon, GoPro, Panasonic, Blackmagic, Sigma, Zeiss, Tokina and many others.

Posted on

New Gear Coming in 2015

What better way to celebrate the New Year than with some great new gear from Camera Hire!Nikon D750 DSLR

We have a huge number of new products arriving in store in January, including the Canon XF205 HD Camcorder, a professional grade high definition camera, ideal for event and documentary style coverage.

Another new camera on the way is Nikon’s 24-megapixel, full frame D750 DSLR. Compatible with this, and other Nikon DSLRs, are Sigma’s 35mm f/1.4 DG and 50mm f/1.4 DG, both from the popular ART series of lenses.

And for Sony users we have three new lenses and an external flash.

The Sony 16-35mm f/424-70mm f/4 and 70-200mm f/4 are compatible with the in demand A7s Mirrorless Digital Camera, as is the Sony HVL-F60M Flash. These lenses can also be used with the Sony FS7 and FS700 video cameras, without the need for a lens adapter.

Happy New Year!

Posted on

Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II Now Available

Canon 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L II Lens
Canon 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L II Lens

The replacement for Canon’s EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L has officially arrived. The lens is slightly larger and the rotating zoom design should provide a solution for dust issues associated with its predecessor. It also offers three image stabilisation modes and offers 4 stops of stabilisation compared to 1.5 in the previous model. The new lens will automatically lock the IS elements when it detects a tripod in use. Minimum focus distance has been set to 3.2 feet (0.98m)  and the lens now includes a  0.31x maximum magnification. A new bayonet-style ET-83D hood is included also allowing for an easier adjustment of filters.

The EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM uses a new optical formula with one Fluorite and one Super UD element. Also introduced is a new Air Sphere Coating technology which uses suspended air bubbles in the coating which results in reduced ghosting and flaring.

Ruggedly constructed with advanced dust and water sealing for durability in a range of environments, the Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM telephoto lens is a stellar all rounder lens with refined controls for a wide variety of situations making it ideal for wildlife or sports photography when you need to minimise your kit.

Click here to see hire prices for the Canon 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS Mark II.

Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS Mark II Specs

  • Focal Length & Maximum Aperture: 100-400mm 1:4.5-5.6
  • Lens Construction: 21 elements in 16 groups
  • Diagonal Angle of View: 24º-6’10’
  • Focus Adjustment: Inner focus system / USM
  • Closest Focusing Distance: 3.2 ft. / 0.98m
  • Filter Size: 77mm
  • Max Diameter x Length, Weight: 3.7 in. x 7.6 in. / 94mm x 193mm; 3.46 lbs. / 1,570g
Posted on

Christmas Trading Hours

Camera Hire will be closed the public holidays and some extra days over the Christmas and New Year period.

Over this time, we will be offering discounts for hires that need to be returned later, due to our closing days and times. Please email or call us if you require a quote for equipment over this period.

Our Christmas and New Year Holiday dates are outlined below:

22 – 28 December 2014

Mon 22ndTue 23rdWed 24thThurs 25thFri 26thSat 27thSun 28th
8-6pm8-6pm8-5pmChristmas DayBoxing DayClosedClosed
(closed)(closed)

29 Dec – 4 January 2015

Mon 29thTue 30thWed 31stThurs 1stFri 2ndSat 3rdSun 4th
9-5pm9-5pm9-5pmNew Years Day9-5pmClosedClosed
(closed)

5 – 11 January 2015

Mon 5thTue 6thWed 7thThurs 8thFri 9thSat 10thSun 11th
9-5pm9-5pm9-5pm9-5pm9-5pm9-1pmClosed

12 – 18th January 2015: Normal Trading Hours Resume

MonTueWedThursFriSatSun
8-6pm8-6pm8-6pm8-6pm8-6pm9-1pmClosed