ShareGrid is a peer-to-peer marketplace where photographers and filmmakers rent out their cameras, lenses, lights and audio gear to other creatives. ShareGrid says it has more than 150,000 members sharing over $1 billion of gear. Renters verify their identity and add coverage, and owners get paid to their bank account.
At a glance
| What it is | A peer-to-peer rental marketplace for film and photo gear |
| How you earn | Rental fees when other creatives book your gear |
| Cost to list | Free to join; ShareGrid takes its fee from rentals |
| Protection | Coverage options chosen at checkout |
| Who it’s for | Owners of cameras, lenses, lighting and audio gear |
| Where it works | United States, with local markets and national shipping |
How ShareGrid works
You list each item with photos, a description and a daily rate. Renters nearby, or across the country through ShareGrid’s national shipping, find your listing and book dates. ShareGrid verifies renters’ identities and requires coverage on each rental. On pickup day, a digital check sheet records the gear’s condition with both of you present. After the rental, your earnings go to your bank account.
ShareGrid also lets members buy and sell used gear, which helps when you want to upgrade.
What rents well
Cinema cameras, fast lenses, lighting kits and audio gear are the backbone of ShareGrid. ShareGrid says its members list thousands of cinema cameras and lenses. Popular mirrorless and cinema bodies rent often, and bundles with batteries, cards and cages are more attractive than a bare body. ShareGrid also says renting peer-to-peer averages about 30% less than traditional rental houses, which is why renters come.
Pricing your gear
Look at similar listings in your area and price to compete. Offer weekend and weekly rates, since many productions book for several days. Keep your calendar current so renters don’t hit unavailable dates. Respond fast: renters often need gear on short notice.
Risks and care
Rentals mean wear. Inspect gear carefully before and after each rental, use the check sheet and photograph everything. Understand exactly what the coverage includes and how claims work before your first rental. High-value items may need extra attention to coverage limits.
Setting up a strong listing
Good listings win more bookings. Use clear, well-lit photos of the actual item, not stock images. List everything included, such as batteries, chargers, cards, cages and cases, so renters know exactly what they get. Add a short note on condition and any quirks. Bundle related items into kits, since productions prefer to rent a complete package from one owner.
Handling handovers
Agree on pickup and return times in advance and stick to them. Meet in a safe, convenient place, or offer pickup from home if you’re comfortable. Walk through the gear with the renter, complete the check sheet together and charge batteries before each rental. Smooth handovers lead to good reviews, and good reviews lead to repeat renters.
Taxes and records
Rental income from your gear is taxable. Keep a simple record of each rental, what you earned and any costs, such as repairs, cleaning and replacement parts. Some of those costs, and depreciation on the gear itself, may reduce your tax bill. A tax adviser can tell you what applies where you live.
It also helps to track which items earn the most, so you know what to keep, upgrade or sell.
Owen’s take
If you already own pro gear that sits in a cupboard between shoots, ShareGrid is one of the best ways to make it earn. It’s not fully passive: pickups, returns and checks take time. But a few rentals a month can cover the cost of your next upgrade.
Who it suits
It suits photographers and filmmakers with quality gear they don’t use every day, especially in big production cities. It suits less well people with consumer-grade cameras or who can’t handle in-person handovers.
Similar options
- Fat Llama lets you rent out almost any item, including cameras.
- Neighbor pays you to rent out storage and parking space.
- Getaround lets you earn from your car in parts of Europe.
More options are in Rentals & Sharing.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Large, active community of creatives
- Renter verification and required coverage
- National shipping widens your market
Cons
- Wear and tear on your gear
- Handovers and inspections take time
- Earnings depend on your local market
FAQ
Is ShareGrid free to join?
Yes. ShareGrid takes its fee from completed rentals.
Is my gear protected?
Renters choose a coverage option at checkout. Read the terms for limits and claims.
What gear rents best on ShareGrid?
Cinema cameras, lenses, lighting and audio gear are in steady demand.
Can I rent outside my city?
Yes. ShareGrid offers national rental shipping for many owners.
Do I have to meet renters in person?
For local rentals, usually yes. Shipping is an option for some owners and items.
