We have two hire rates:
1. Standard rate: for institutions, commercial work and funded projects
2. Concessionary rate: for individual artists who are unable to afford the standard rate
We are committed to supporting a diverse and dynamic moving image community by helping practitioners overcome the barriers to making film. When hiring from us, please take into account that we are not a commercial hire house.
Fill out an initial enquiry form which will ask for a brief description of the project, the equipment you will need and when. If you aren’t sure what equipment you’ll need then we are happy to discuss your needs and give advice - just let us know on the form. We aim to get back to you same day with availability.
To confirm the hire we will ask you fill out a form with further details. If you do not have experience using the equipment we can arrange for an induction. If you do not have insurance we can point you towards a low cost provider.
If you have any questions or need more information about the equipment or the process please email us at hire@satellitefilms.org.
Our equipment is located in our east London office near Mile End. Collection and drop-off times can be arranged between Monday–Friday 10 am–6.30 pm.
You will need insurance to hire our equipment. If you don’t already have this organised we can direct you towards an affordable provider offering short period insurance for hire equipment. This can be booked online from £40.
Is the concession rate for students?
Our concession rate is intended to support artists who cannot afford the equipment they need through other means. This may occasionally include students, however you are normally more likely to be able to access equipment through university, with fewer complications and on their insurance. If you do not have access to equipment through university, and you are making work without institutional support then you’re eligible for the concessionary rate like everyone else.
Do you have reduced rates for longer hires?
If you need equipment for a longer period (longer than 1 week) just let us know and we would be happy to discuss a reduced rate.
What happens if I don’t have insurance?
We will direct you towards a low-cost supplier to arrange this.
Who can I ask to be my referee?
This could be an employer, a colleague, a tutor or anyone who knows your work and can attest to your ability to safely handle the equipment you are hiring.
What happens if equipment is damaged during the hire?
Please let us know as soon as possible and we will work with you and the insurers to find a resolution.
Are weekend days paid for as hire days?
Weekend days are offered free of charge provided you’re hiring on an adjacent weekday.
Am I required to do an induction if I don’t have experience using the equipment I am hiring?
If you have comparable experience handling similar equipment then you will not be required to do an induction. Otherwise we will request that you undertake an induction in order to safely handle the equipment. This is quick, free of charge, and a chance to get to know the equipment you’ll be using better.
Satellite reserves the right to cancel any agreed hire.
All equipment remains the legal property of satellite at all times.
You warrant that you are able to safely operate all equipment provided, and that you will operate the equipment safely at all times. This includes:
Keeping all equipment in a secure, locked place when not in use.
Not letting equipment out of your sight when in use (for example if filming outdoors).
Not leaving or storing the equipment in any place that could cause it to malfunction, for example through water damage, damp, extreme temperatures or any other reasonably foreseeable cause.
Notifying satellite immediately of any defect or malfunction of the equipment, or any damage or theft.
In the unlikely event of equipment damage then you will co-operate fully with satellite and any third parties including insurers or law enforcement.