Equipment Rental for Film Students and Emerging Filmmakers in Toronto

Neighbourhood Studios supports Toronto's next generation of filmmakers with access to professional-grade equipment at accessible rates — plus advice from a team that includes working filmmakers.

Professional Gear, Accessible to Emerging Filmmakers

Every working filmmaker started somewhere. Neighbourhood Studios believes that access to professional equipment shouldn't be limited to big-budget productions. We work with film students, recent graduates, and first-time filmmakers across Toronto to make sure your early projects look and sound as good as your ideas deserve.

Where to Start

If you're building your first real equipment list, here's what we typically recommend: a Canon EOS R5 C or similar cinema-capable camera body, a versatile zoom lens for run-and-gun flexibility, a Sachtler fluid head tripod for stable shots, and an Aputure LED panel or two for interview and narrative lighting.

This kind of setup gives you broadcast-quality footage without the complexity (or cost) of a full cinema rig. As your projects grow, you can add specialty items like gimbals, wireless monitors, and grip equipment.

Ask Us Anything

We know that navigating an equipment rental catalog for the first time can be overwhelming. Our team includes working filmmakers who are happy to walk you through options, explain what specific gear does, and help you avoid renting things you don't actually need. No question is too basic.

Flexible Rates for Longer Projects

Student thesis films and passion projects often shoot over multiple weekends. Our weekly and 4-week rates make extended projects significantly more affordable than paying day rates. Ask us about custom pricing for student productions.

Who This Is For

Film students at Toronto's film schools (TMU, York, Sheridan, Humber, etc.), recent graduates working on portfolio projects, and first-time filmmakers shooting their debut shorts or features. If you're early in your career and serious about making great work, we want to help you get there.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do you offer student discounts on equipment rental?

We offer competitive weekly and 4-week rates that make multi-day student shoots affordable. Contact us with your project details and school affiliation and we'll work with you on pricing that fits your budget.

What equipment should I rent for my first short film?

For a first short film, we recommend starting with a Canon EOS R5 C ($300/day), a versatile zoom lens, a Sachtler tripod ($55/day), and an Aputure Light Storm LED ($175/day). This gives you a professional-quality setup without the complexity of a full cinema rig.

Can you help me figure out what equipment I need?

Absolutely. Tell us about your project — the story, locations, lighting conditions, crew size, and budget — and our team will recommend an equipment package. We include working filmmakers on staff who understand student and indie production realities.

I'm a film student at TMU/York/Sheridan — can I rent from you?

Yes, we regularly work with students from Toronto's film schools. You'll need a valid credit card for the rental deposit, but otherwise the process is the same as any rental. We're located at 24 McGee Street in the Studio District — easy to get to from most Toronto campuses.

Working on a Student or First-Time Film Project?

Tell us about your project and budget and we'll help you build an equipment package that maximizes your production value. No question is too basic — we're here to help.