LensesForHire - easy, flexible and affordable hire of lenses and lighting

[StewartR]

http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/ekmps/shops/lensesforhire/images/system/lfh-banner-450px.jpg (http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk)
(click)


Do you want a specialised lens for a special occasion such as a safari, wedding, track day, air show, holiday, ....?
Are you starting out as a pro but don't yet have all the gear you'll need?
Do you want to try a lens before you buy it? (Or decide not to buy it!)
Do you want to enjoy being able to use a wide variety of equipment, without the burden and cost of ownership?


That's what we're here for. LensesForHire is committed to making lens hire easy, flexible, and affordable, for the professional and the enthusiast alike.

We have the widest range of lenses available for hire in the UK. We try to make it as easy as possible for you to receive and return your lenses. We offer impartial and knowledgeable advice. And we don't hide any nasty surprises in our prices.

If you have any questions about the service that aren't covered on our Q&A page (http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/questions-and-answers-3-w.asp), or any comments, feel free to leave them here and I'll address them. Or email us at help [at] lensesforhire.co.uk if you need a fast answer.

Whenever we get new equipment or run special offers I'll post details here, so make sure to check for updates....

[mrbez]

I have just used LFH for a weekend in Paris.

I used a 17-55 2.8 and a 10-22. The service has been excellent and I will highly recommend Stuart and his team.

[StewartR]

Some of the lenses we've added to our stocks recently...

http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/ekmps/shops/lensesforhire/images/canon-ts-e-24mm-f-3.5-l-ii-228-p.jpg (http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/canon-ts-e-24mm-f35-l-ii-228-p.asp) http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/ekmps/shops/lensesforhire/images/nikon-af-s-16-35mm-f-4-g-ed-vr-213-p.jpg (http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/nikon-af-s-16-35mm-f4-g-ed-vr-213-p.asp)http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/ekmps/shops/lensesforhire/images/nikon-af-s-24mm-f-1.4-g-ed-227-p.jpg (http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/nikon-af-s-24mm-f14-g-ed-227-p.asp) http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/ekmps/shops/lensesforhire/images/canon-ts-e-17mm-f-4-l-33-p.jpg (http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/canon-ts-e-17mm-f4-l-33-p.asp) http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/ekmps/shops/lensesforhire/images/nikon-af-s-500mm-f-4-g-ed-vr-212-p.jpg (http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/nikon-af-s-500mm-f4-g-ed-vr-212-p.asp) http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/ekmps/shops/lensesforhire/images/nikon-af-s-70-200mm-f-2.8-g-ed-vr-ii-224-p.jpg (http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/nikon-af-s-70-200mm-f28-g-ed-vr-ii-224-p.asp)

[StewartR]

Some more of the lenses we've acquired recently ...

http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/ekmps/shops/lensesforhire/images/sigma-n-8mm-f-3.5-ex-dg-circular-fisheye-221-p.jpg (http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/sigman-8mm-f35-ex-dg-circular-fisheye-221-p.asp) http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/ekmps/shops/lensesforhire/images/canon-ef-70-200mm-f-2.8-l-is-ii-usm-215-p.jpg (http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/canon-ef-70-200mm-f28-l-is-ii-usm-215-p.asp) http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/ekmps/shops/lensesforhire/images/nikon-pc-e-45mm-f-2.8-d-ed-micro-209-p.jpg (http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/nikon-pc-e-45mm-f28-d-ed-micro-209-p.asp) http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/ekmps/shops/lensesforhire/images/canon-ts-e-45mm-f-2.8-206-p.jpg (http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/canon-ts-e-45mm-f28-206-p.asp) http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/ekmps/shops/lensesforhire/images/nikon-af-s-tc-20e-iii-teleconverter-198-p.jpg (http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/nikon-af-s-tc-20e-iii-teleconverter-198-p.asp) http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/ekmps/shops/lensesforhire/images/canon-ef-24mm-f-1.4-l-ii-usm-205-p.jpg (http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/canon-ef-24mm-f14-l-ii-usm-205-p.asp)

[kiteninja]

Tempted to hire the 14mm Canon :O but i know it'll make me want to buy one :(.

Can't fault L4H :), hired a 300mm fair few weeks back now :) shame the weather was *****, couldn't of done with hireing some sunshine at the same time lol.

[Simmotino]

If anyone is thinking about it, but isn't sure - do it!

Stuart's service is second to none IMO, and the whole process is as easy as opening and closing a box (literally!).

[stu_the_flat]

Some of the lenses we've added to our stocks recently...

http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/ekmps/shops/lensesforhire/images/canon-ts-e-24mm-f3.5-l-ii.jpg (http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/canon-ts-e-24mm-f35-l-ii-228-p.asp) http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/ekmps/shops/lensesforhire/images/nikon-af-s-16-35mm-f4-g-ed-vr.jpg (http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/nikon-af-s-16-35mm-f4-g-ed-vr-213-p.asp)http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/ekmps/shops/lensesforhire/images/nikon-af-s-24mm-f1.4-g-ed.jpg (http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/nikon-af-s-24mm-f14-g-ed-227-p.asp) http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/ekmps/shops/lensesforhire/images/canon-ts-e-17mm-f4-l.jpg (http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/canon-ts-e-17mm-f4-l-33-p.asp) http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/ekmps/shops/lensesforhire/images/nikon-af-s-500mm-f4-g-ed-vr.jpg (http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/nikon-af-s-500mm-f4-g-ed-vr-212-p.asp) http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/ekmps/shops/lensesforhire/images/nikon-af-s-70-200mm-f2.8-g-ed-vr-ii.jpg (http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/nikon-af-s-70-200mm-f28-g-ed-vr-ii-224-p.asp)

Ah lens porn! :D

As I said before it would be great if you could rent cameras from you.

more ambitiosly if you could rent "an event kit bag" which would be a package deal on the holy trinity a couple of camera bodies and small sunderes that could save the day like CF cards if the user uses SD, AA batteries and some sort of "R-strap" so that your cameras and lenses don't spend there time knocking in to each other!

Just a thought

Stuart

[madhouse]

Stewart & everyone @ LFH - Thank you. We got back from our honeymoon safari yesterday and the kit I hired really helped me to capture some extra special memories.

First class service from start to finish, I wouldn't hesitate to hire again and will recommend you to anyone looking to hire.

PS, lenses get picked up this afternoon - loved them and am almost sorry to see them go!

[StewartR]

5,000 customers!

We've just acquired our 5,000th customer today. John in Hitchin - who unfortunately isn't a TP member, so far as I'm aware - is getting his hire of a Canon TS-E 90mm f/2.8 for free as a gesture of appreciation.

I can't afford to give freebies to everyone, but while we're here I'd like to thank all the TP members who were in the previous 4,999.

[dseered]

Congratulations Stewart !

[StewartR]

UPDATE - NEW LENS

The Tokina AT-X Pro DX 11-16mm f/2.8 (http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/tokinan-at-x-pro-dx-11-16mm-f28-231-p.asp) has been the most frequently requested lens over the last year or so at LFH. Tokina and their UK distributors have had huge supply problems, but these seem to have been resolved now and we've finally got our hands on a couple of them, for Nikon users. (Canon users don't despair - we have some on order.) Details, prices and availability are on our web site here (http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/tokinan-at-x-pro-dx-11-16mm-f28-231-p.asp).

http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/ekmps/shops/lensesforhire/images/tokina-n-at-x-pro-dx-11-16mm-f-2.8-231-p.jpg (http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/tokinan-at-x-pro-dx-11-16mm-f28-231-p.asp)

[Tricky01]

Any plans for Sony glass? Pretty please...

[King of Groove]

Congratulations Stewart on reaching 5,000 customers. Well done.

[J H B]

I recently hired a couple of lenses from LFH, and as others have said the service was absolutely spot on. I literally cannot fault any part of the entire process from browsing the website to communications after I had returned the lenses. The lenses were in perfect condition, picking them up and returning them was a doddle, and all for a very good price. I have no hesitation whatsoever in recommending them. A genuine five star service.

Many congratulations on your 5,000th customer, I hope it isn't much longer until your 10,000th.

[Ady Williams]

Like to add my thanks to Stewart and the team, I picked up my lenses ( and dropped them back ) in person, and got to meet Stewart, if only briefly!

Can't fault the service at all. Highly recommended!


PS.. Could we have some flashes/pocket wizards etc to hire sometime? ;)

[mercedes]

Just to add my 'Hat off' to these guys too. Great service! Why shell out on a major purchase that's only gonna be used twice a year? You can hire a variety of lenses twice a year for 5 years. Look and learn;)

[Will H]

Out of interest, are there any plans to stock the new Sigma 50-500 (Canon fit) any time soon? :)

[amnesia]

UPDATE - NEW LENS

The Tokina AT-X Pro DX 11-16mm f/2.8 (http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/tokinan-at-x-pro-dx-11-16mm-f28-231-p.asp) has been the most frequently requested lens over the last year or so at LFH. Tokina and their UK distributors have had huge supply problems, but these seem to have been resolved now and we've finally got our hands on a couple of them, for Nikon users. (Canon users don't despair - we have some on order.) Details, prices and availability are on our web site here (http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/tokinan-at-x-pro-dx-11-16mm-f28-231-p.asp).

http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/ekmps/shops/lensesforhire/images/tokina-at-x-pro-dx-11-16mm-f2.8.jpg (http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/tokinan-at-x-pro-dx-11-16mm-f28-231-p.asp)

I really want to give one of these a go :thumbs:

[LovesRaptors]

e-mail us at LFH Help for a quick answer now there is a joke there somewhere...EH!!!!




John

[StewartR]

e-mail us at LFH Help for a quick answer now there is a joke there somewhere...EH!!!!

John
It's not a joke. We do respond to all emails quickly. If you'd emailed us, we'd have responded quickly. But as I've said before, I'm not on TP every day.

[StewartR]

Out of interest, are there any plans to stock the new Sigma 50-500 (Canon fit) any time soon? :)Hmmm. Probably not, for two main reasons.

Firstly we're really not impressed at all with the service we get from Sigma. If a Sigma lens develops a fault, it can easily be out of action for 4-6 weeks. (With Canon lenses it's more like 4 days.)

Secondly we've heard worrying reports, based on the 120-400mm OS and the 150-500mm OS, that the OS systems in their lenses may not be durable enough to stand up to the rigours of repeated transportation.

Combine those two issues and you can readily see why we're not so keen.

We've asked Sigma UK to provide us with some reassurances regarding the durability of their lenses, and to promise us support in the case of problems. But so far they've declined.

Sorry.

[StewartR]

Any plans for Sony glass? Pretty please...

Sorry Simon, but we just can't see a business case for investing in Sony lenses. We've tried to persuade Sony to support the idea, but they don't seem to want to.

You might want to try www.hireanalphalens.co.uk (http://www.hireanalphalens.co.uk/). I know nothing about them, and I'm not in a position to comment on their reliability or customer service - but they do hire out Sony lenses.

[StewartR]

UPDATE - NEW LENS

We're the first hire company in the UK (so far as we're aware) to get our hands on the new Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 L IS USM. Details, prices and availability on our web site here (http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/canon-ef-70-300mm-f4-56-l-is-usm-232-p.asp).

http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/ekmps/shops/lensesforhire/images/canon-ef-70-300mm-f-4-5.6-l-is-usm-232-p.jpg (http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/canon-ef-70-300mm-f4-56-l-is-usm-232-p.asp)

[LJ.]

Nice to see you in here Stewart.

I would recommend lensesforhire to anybody for what it's worth. Top service throughout.

[StewartR]

UPDATE - NEW LENS

We now have the Tokina AT-X Pro DX 11-16mm f/2.8 (http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/tokinac-at-x-pro-dx-11-16mm-f28-230-p.asp) available for Canon users as well as Nikon users. Details, prices and availability are on our web site here (http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/tokinac-at-x-pro-dx-11-16mm-f28-230-p.asp).

http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/ekmps/shops/lensesforhire/images/tokina-c-at-x-pro-dx-11-16mm-f-2.8-230-p.jpg (http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/tokinac-at-x-pro-dx-11-16mm-f28-230-p.asp)

[StewartR]

We've also made a small improvement to our web site: a countdown clock to let you know how long you have left to order if you're in a hurry and want delivery tomorrow.

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs1200.snc4/155238_461145441793_162459801793_5705512_1372555_n .jpg

We routinely dispatch lenses the same day if the order is received by 3pm.

We can often manage it later than 3pm - but it's always best to check with us if you're desperate. We don't always monitor the order inflow after 3pm because we're busy getting the dispatches ready and collecting payments; but if somebody calls us and we know they need something in a hurry, then we can often oblige.

[STARRIDER]

Do you rent the Lensalign thingy..if so would like some details..

[StewartR]

Do you rent the Lensalign thingy..if so would like some details..Sorry Dave, but we have no plans to hire out this "thingy". We can't realistically make any money hiring out something that's so cheap, bearing in mind you'd be looking at £15+ for return postage on top of any hire charges.

[STARRIDER]

Sorry Dave, but we have no plans to hire out this "thingy". We can't realistically make any money hiring out something that's so cheap, bearing in mind you'd be looking at £15+ for return postage on top of any hire charges.
Thanks Stewart..was just a thought i had while looking at them online..:thumbs:

[StewartR]

WINTER SALE NOW ON

Our WINTER SALE starts today! We have three great offers.


Hire one lens, get another half price.
Free extended hire over the Christmas / New Year period.
Lock in today's prices for hires after the VAT increase.

Details on our web site here (http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/winter-sale-12-w.asp).

[andycallaghan]

I want Sony lenses. :-(

[StewartR]

I want Sony lenses. :-(
You have to ask nicely, Andy. ;)

We haven't been able to make a business case (yet) for stocking Sony equipment. You could try www.hireanalphalens.co.uk (http://www.hireanalphalens.co.uk) - I don't know anything about them other than that they exist, so please take it as a suggestion rather than a recommendation.

[neoboy]

Don't suppose you guys are thinking of expanding into bodies? I would love to be able to do some video work but I'm not investing extra hundreds of pounds into a new body when I'm happy with the picture side of my current one.

[SimonM]

Yes I'd be interested in hiring a body along with a lens too

[Jazzmonkey]

Lens hire sounds good.:thumbs:
Its a good idea for trying before buying, which I will probably be doing soon, or if I just want a lens for a specific event ie- airshows.

LFH also get good reviews from everybody who has posted on here, which is good to know. Hopefully be renting soon

[muscleflex]

you cant go wrong with lensesforhire. i have hired from them before and service is excellent!

[John Mc]

I hired a 10-22mm lens out in Aug, Service was....Amazing :) well pleased.

Im looking to hire out lenses from them this christmas for a Trip to south africa,thats if i dont buy the lens im thinking of hiring :P.

But i too would love to see a Body hire option. Wouldnt mind trying out a 5d and a 7D and comparing them. Im unsure which i'd like first.
Maybe hire out studio lights too,but that would get pricey for postage.

[StewartR]

Don't suppose you guys are thinking of expanding into bodies? I would love to be able to do some video work but I'm not investing extra hundreds of pounds into a new body when I'm happy with the picture side of my current one.

Yes I'd be interested in hiring a body along with a lens too

But i too would love to see a Body hire option.

Sorry guys, no plans for bodies at present. I wouldn't want to do it until I was confident I could do it properly - there would be no point just getting a 5D and a 7D and the Nikon equivalents! But unfortunately that would take more capital investment than I can afford at present.

[John Mc]

We can hope for the Future :)

[SimonM]

OK, sorry to hear that, thanks Stewart, although it would be nice to have a complete solution if you know what I mean?

[coldpenguin]

Unfortunately I guess that the bodies just depreciate too quickly, to be of particular interest here.

Then you have to consider the repair costs on them (if they can be repaired).

If someone hires a £10k lens, there isn't really a lot apart from dropping it, that they could do wrong.
However, if someone hires a £2k camera, they could knock the battery door off, they could put a dodgy CF card in it and damage the pins, etc. etc.

Personally, I think Stewart and his team do a great job at the mo. A great range

(although, a product like a studio in a box I think would be good. Good fast lens, backdrop+stand, reflectors, flash gun and stand+umbrella). Weekend hires I reckon would be popular on this type of thing :)

[Simmotino]

(although, a product like a studio in a box I think would be good. Good fast lens, backdrop+stand, reflectors, flash gun and stand+umbrella). Weekend hires I reckon would be popular on this type of thing :)

:plusone:

That would be an interesting proposition to be honest (with or without the lens)

[StewartR]

(although, a product like a studio in a box I think would be good. Good fast lens, backdrop+stand, reflectors, flash gun and stand+umbrella). Weekend hires I reckon would be popular on this type of thing :)
Mmm, interesting. How much would you be willing to pay for return postage for a setup like that?

[Simmotino]

Mmm, interesting. How much would you be willing to pay for return postage for a setup like that?

£30-£40? :shrug:

[StewartR]

UPDATE - NEW LENS
http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/ekmps/shops/lensesforhire/images/nikon-af-s-28-300mm-f-3.5-5.6-g-ed-vr-236-p.jpg
This is the Nikon AF-S 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6 G ED VR.

If you have a Nikon FX camera and you want a go-anywhere do-anything lens, this is it. Details and prices on our web site here (http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/nikon-af-s-28-300mm-f35-56-g-ed-vr-236-p.asp).

[Stegsie]

I am looking at hiring a couple of lenses from you - do you have any offers on at the moment? I loved the Winter Sale, but as I need the lenses later this month I missed out.

[StewartR]

I am looking at hiring a couple of lenses from you - do you have any offers on at the moment? I loved the Winter Sale, but as I need the lenses later this month I missed out.
Sorry Steve. We ran the winter sale because demand is always quiet in December and January. It's starting to pick up again now... there's a surprisingly large number of big telephotos waiting to go out of the door today, and they're always the hardest to shift in the winter.

There aren't currently any offers running which are open to the general public. But I think our prices are still pretty good value anyway. ;)

[Stegsie]

Sorry Steve. We ran the winter sale because demand is always quiet in December and January. It's starting to pick up again now... there's a surprisingly large number of big telephotos waiting to go out of the door today, and they're always the hardest to shift in the winter.

There aren't currently any offers running which are open to the general public. But I think our prices are still pretty good value anyway. ;)

That's fine, mate, no worries. Agree your prices are great, and I will be ordering a couple of lenses this weekend for mid Feb.

You can't blame this cheek little scouser for trying though! :thumbs:

Cheers, mate. :)

[StewartR]

UPDATE - NEW PRODUCT LINE

Following many requests, we've decided to dip our toes into the murky world of lighting.

Our first offering is a complete off-camera flash setup for Canon (http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/canon-speedlite-flash-kit-239-p.asp), all in one box: 2x 580EX II flash units and an ST-E2 transmitter.

http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/ekmps/shops/lensesforhire/images/canon-speedlite-flash-kit-239-p.jpg

[nickshek]

Hi Stewart,

Do you plan on adding the Nikon 35 and 85 1.4G lenses to the lineup any time soon?

[StewartR]

Do you plan on adding the Nikon 35 and 85 1.4G lenses to the lineup ...
Yes, definitely. They both look like very attractive lenses.
... any time soon?
We'll have to see.

The street price of the 85mm has fallen from £1500 to £1250 in the last 6 months so I think that's about where I can afford to buy it. It's still 50% more than the older version, so I think it may have further to fall, but hopefully not too quickly now.

The street price of the 35mm has come down from £1700 to £1400 in the last 4 months, which is a pretty steep fall, but I still think that at £1400 it may well still be over-priced. I'll hold off this one for a wee while longer.

But if you want to commit to a 2-week hire, and you give us 2 weeks notice to allow us to shop around and buy for a decent price, then we'll get them in for you regardless.

[Mahoneyd187]

Woohoo the 1.4 primes is a VERY good idea ;)

[StewartR]

Woohoo the 1.4 primes is a VERY good idea ;)
Well, for decades Nikon didn't think so... ;)

[Kev.s]

Stewart, do you think the Canon 200/400x1.4 will be here for October?

[StewartR]

Stewart, do you think the Canon 200/400x1.4 will be here for October?
It might be in the shops, but it's highly unlikely that we'll have it.

I'm on record as saying that I think it will launch at £8000+ and it will eventually settle down to £5500-£6000. So I reckon its price will drop by maybe £2000 in the first 6 months, and we couldn't possibly earn £2000 in 6 months by hiring one out. So - unless I can persuade someone to sell me one for say £6000 early doors - the best thing to do is sit tight and wait for the price to drop. Sad but true.

[alexam]

Stewart,

Insurance is built into your prices, but there is a £150 excess on claims. Can the excess be covered by an additional (nominal) cost?

[StewartR]

Insurance is built into your prices, but there is a £150 excess on claims. Can the excess be covered by an additional (nominal) cost?
Sorry, no. The purpose of the excess is to encourage people to be careful!

[Kev.s]

Yeap fully understand, a badly timed holiday for me.... I will have the stick to my trusty 100/400

[Tony Stark]

Hi Stewart, this is great. I wanted to buy a new lens but I'm just afraid if its not the one for me. This hiring lens idea is just great. Well if I wanted to hire the 24-70 2.8 nikkor, is it available for the moment? And it shows that its about 70pounds for a week, is that the whole price?

[StewartR]

Hi Stewart, this is great. I wanted to buy a new lens but I'm just afraid if its not the one for me. This hiring lens idea is just great. Well if I wanted to hire the 24-70 2.8 nikkor, is it available for the moment? And it shows that its about 70pounds for a week, is that the whole price?
Sorry for the delay in replying, Tony. I've been on holiday.

Anyway the availability calendars on each page of our web site are pretty reliable. For the Nikon 24-70 it's currently showing all green, which means we have at least 2 or 3 copies of the lens available on every day for the foreseeable future.

And the price you see is the price you pay - including comprehensive insurance and VAT - unless you don't live conveniently close to Maidenhead and you need it delivered. In that case it costs from £9 for delivery by courier and about the same again to return visa RMSD.

[Tony Stark]

Sorry for the delay in replying, Tony. I've been on holiday.

Anyway the availability calendars on each page of our web site are pretty reliable. For the Nikon 24-70 it's currently showing all green, which means we have at least 2 or 3 copies of the lens available on every day for the foreseeable future.

And the price you see is the price you pay - including comprehensive insurance and VAT - unless you don't live conveniently close to Maidenhead and you need it delivered. In that case it costs from £9 for delivery by courier and about the same again to return visa RMSD.
its okay stewart. i'll keep u posted then. i need to read the r&r of hiring the lenses first from your web! :D

[RubyX4]

I hired a nikon 300 f4 last weekend and the service was great, arrived on time and the courier to collect it was on time too (arranged by me, not prepeaid).

Great service, great comms, great guys to deal with. Will hire again. Some photos available in my Eagles thread
http://www.talkphotography.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?t=300121

[londongal76]

I'd just like to say thanks to you, your company is ace. I hired the 100-400 Canon Supertelephoto last week, and last November too. Your communication and service is great end to end, when I had problems (that weren't your fault) you were amazingly helpful. It's refreshing to find a company that provides great customer service these days.

So thanks :-)

[Alex T]

Has anyone collected their equipment from this company in Maidenhead? Just wanting to know, as on a quick turn around to Heathrow for a flight later in the day and wanted to know how long your there for?

Cheers

[StewartR]

Has anyone collected their equipment from this company in Maidenhead? Just wanting to know, as on a quick turn around to Heathrow for a flight later in the day and wanted to know how long your there for?

Cheers
I can answer that one for you Alex.

We meet customers at a coffee shop just around the corner from our office. (We don't advertise the actual office location for reasons of security.) If we know roughly what time you're planning to get here, we'll make sure we have the lens picked, bagged, labelled, and ready to go. If you ring us when you get to the coffee shop, we can be there in about 3 minutes. If you ring us when you're 3 minutes away, we'll be there at the same time as you. Simples.

[Alex T]

I can answer that one for you Alex.

We meet customers at a coffee shop just around the corner from our office. (We don't advertise the actual office location for reasons of security.) If we know roughly what time you're planning to get here, we'll make sure we have the lens picked, bagged, labelled, and ready to go. If you ring us when you get to the coffee shop, we can be there in about 3 minutes. If you ring us when you're 3 minutes away, we'll be there at the same time as you. Simples.

Thanks Stewart. We thought we'd hire a lens and pick it up, instead of having it delivered. Much appreciated.

[Ksanti]

Though I did see your concerns about Sigma, is there any chance you might get in a few 30 f/1.4's? They don't have OS at all and seem pretty popular?

Other than that, Samyang? I guess MF may not make much business sense, but I'd wager there'd be a fairly big market prepared to at least try them out, given how good the lenses are said to be?

[dennis25]

I hired a 70-200mm but out of stock at last minute, they sent me the IS version instead, excellent service, will hire again!

[BigRuss]

I've used these guys...and will use again...brilliant service

Thanks again

:clap::thumbs:

[Box Brownie]

I can answer that one for you Alex.

We meet customers at a coffee shop just around the corner from our office. (We don't advertise the actual office location for reasons of security.) If we know roughly what time you're planning to get here, we'll make sure we have the lens picked, bagged, labelled, and ready to go. If you ring us when you get to the coffee shop, we can be there in about 3 minutes. If you ring us when you're 3 minutes away, we'll be there at the same time as you. Simples.

I can vouch for this arrangement though I have used it more for returns than pickup. Coffee shop sells nice cakes :)

[StewartR]

UPDATE - NEW LENS

And what a biggie this is.
We've managed to lay our hands on a Nikon AF-S 600mm f/4 D IF-ED (http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/nikon-af-s-600mm-f4-d-if-ed-241-p.asp).
It's an older non-VR version, but that does have the advantage of making it affordable.

http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/ekmps/shops/lensesforhire/images/nikon-af-s-600mm-f-4-d-if-ed-241-p.jpg (http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/nikon-af-s-600mm-f4-d-if-ed-241-p.asp)

[StewartR]

UPDATE - NEW LENS

This is the Nikon AF-S 200mm f/2 G IF-ED VR (http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/nikon-af-s-200mm-f2-g-if-ed-vr-243-p.asp). It has to be the ultimate Nikon lens for indoor or floodlit sports photography.

http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/ekmps/shops/lensesforhire/images/nikon-af-s-200mm-f-2-g-if-ed-vr-243-p.jpg (http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/nikon-af-s-200mm-f2-g-if-ed-vr-243-p.asp)

[Byker28i]

Stewart,
I've been chasing your company for an invoice to cover my recent hire of a lens, but despite three emails and one phone call I've still not received it.

Sorry but that means I can no longer afford to use your company as I cannot claim the cost of the hire back on expenses and I've had to personally cover the cost.

Shame to spoil an otherwise very positive experience.

[StewartR]

Stewart,
I've been chasing your company for an invoice to cover my recent hire of a lens...
Sorry, I don't know what's happened there. I'll get it sorted.

[kiteninja]

Hi Stewert,

Have you removed the canon 200 f2 from hire as i cant seem to find it.

[StewartR]

Have you removed the canon 200 f2 from hire as i cant seem to find it.
We've never had a Canon 200mm f/2. It's on my shopping list for the summer though.

[Byker28i]

Sorry, I don't know what's happened there. I'll get it sorted.

Now received - Many thanks

[Wrighty23]

I have my sisters wedding in October, I have just treated myself to nikons D7000, can anyone recommend a great lens for hire.

[StewartR]

I have my sisters wedding in October, I have just treated myself to nikons D7000, can anyone recommend a great lens for hire.

You'd be better off asking that question in 'Talk Equipment'. More people will see it there and you'll get a better range of answers. But the recommendations will depend on:
* what other equipment you have;
* what sort of shots you want to take (indoors, outdoors, groups, portraits, candids,...?);
* what your role is (guest, 'official' photographer, ...)
so it would be a good idea to explain those aspects.

[StewartR]

UPDATE - NEW EQUIPMENT

We've got a couple of new items today.

First up is the Canon Speedlite 580EX II flash unit (http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/canon-speedlite-580ex-ii-flash-unit-242-p.asp). We've been offering these for a while as part of a complete off-camera flash kit (http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/canon-speedlite-flash-kit-239-p.asp), but now we've acquired some additional units which we'll be offering separately.

http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/ekmps/shops/lensesforhire/images/canon-speedlite-580ex-ii-flash-unit-242-p.jpg

Next there is the Nikon AF-S 24-120mm f/4 G ED VR (http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/nikon-af-s-24-120mm-f4-g-ed-vr-245-p.asp). The Canon equivalent, the 24-105mm f/4 L IS, is very popular and we expect this to be too. It would be the perfect lens for FX users.

http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/ekmps/shops/lensesforhire/images/nikon-af-s-24-120mm-f-4-g-ed-vr-245-p.jpg

[Mahoneyd187]

Thanks for sorting that 70-200mm 2.8 out for me Stewart ;)

[DavidBloor]

I placed an order today at short notice, the lens has been shipped, all of my emails regarding availability were answered promptly and countlessly.

For me there is a feeling of the personal touch.

Thanks for helping me out at short notice, again!

[daralough]

Excellent site, I rented a canon 10-22mm before and the service was second to none. Top marks to everyone at LFH

[StewartR]

UPDATE - NEW LENS

This is the Nikon AF-S 35mm f/1.4 G (http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/nikon-af-s-35mm-f14-g-249-p.asp). Nikon have neglected the ultra-fast wide prime market for years, at least compared to Canon, but this looks like an important new addition to the arsenal.

http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/ekmps/shops/lensesforhire/images/nikon-af-s-35mm-f-1.4-g-249-p.jpg (http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/nikon-af-s-35mm-f14-g-249-p.asp)

[dltracy]

Have just noticed this thread am looking to hire a lens for this weekend and since the other company that I was recommended havent got the one I want im seriously considering using you :)

[Fazi27]

Hi Stewart,

can you please let me know what the policy on the deposit is (do i have to pay it or not?)? I'm planning to use your service in late August for my holiday. Also, can you please advise if the price change if the lenses are taken outside the UK?

Many thanks,

Mariusz

[StewartR]

Hi Stewart,

can you please let me know what the policy on the deposit is (do i have to pay it or not?)? I'm planning to use your service in late August for my holiday. Also, can you please advise if the price change if the lenses are taken outside the UK?

Many thanks,

Mariusz
We don't generally need a deposit. If you're paying with a card issued by a UK bank, and you have a UK address, and you don't want us to deliver the equipment to some random address which would give our insurers the heebie-jeebies, then you'll be fine. About 99.7% of our customers don't pay a deposit.

You're welcome to take equipment outside the UK, so long as you bring it back. Let us know on the order form where you're going. Our prices include comprehensive insurance which is good for up to 60 days worldwide, though it probably wouldn't cover you if you went to a war zone.

[Fazi27]

Our prices include comprehensive insurance which is good for up to 60 days worldwide, though it probably wouldn't cover you if you went to a war zone.

Thanks Stewart, i will definetely be in touch then.

It's just Portugal i'm going to visit, so hopefully will not be shot or chased by fighting armies :)

Mariusz

[PDS]

Can I add my name to the list of satisfied customers???

I have used LFH on a number of occasions, and will continue to do so.

They offer a great service by providing a great product at sensible prices at a time that suits the customer.

Every lens they have sent has been either brand new or almost new.

And when there was a problem supplying the lens I requested, they were straight onto me with giving me an honest explanation why and offering me an alternative.

[higgy1541]

Very interested in the Canon 400mm f5.6 USB lens, have just mailed you regarding a part exchange

[Box Brownie]

Very interested in the Canon 400mm f5.6 USB lens, have just mailed you regarding a part exchange

Seeing your post made me take a quick look back through the posts.................cannot readily see any where LensesForHire are selling their kit so somewhat puzzled by what you say about a part exchange???

[StewartR]

Very interested in the Canon 400mm f5.6 USB lens, have just mailed you regarding a part exchangeMistaken identity methinks. We're not selling anything, and if we were we certainly wouldn't do part-ex!

[adamus]

I ordered a 70-200 2.8 for a week from lensesforhire which was due to be delivered today. I had an issue with the courier (not lensesforhire's fault) and the lengths that both lensesforhire and JCA (their courier partner) went to was some of the best customer service i have come across.

Huuuuge thumbs up to becky from Lensesforhire, and Jess from JCA - Model customer service that got me out of a very tight spot!

[dltracy]

I hired a lens from you the other week and since it was my 1st experience hiring a lens was worried.
The lens was excellent and in fact the whole experience was excellent too - was kept so well informed all the way through the whole process that I will definitely hire from them again :D

[TCR4x4]

Ordered a lens on Thurday at about 5pm for Sunday. Wasnt expecting delivery until Saturday, but it arrived at 11am on Friday! Well packaged, and has all the packaging to return it easilly.

My only slight issue would be the courier left it with a neighbour (I wasnt in, as I said I was expecting delivery on Saturday when I ordered and had to go to work on Fri) , which thankfully isnt a problem here, but I can see some issues if people dont get on with thier neighbours.

Top service all round, just hope LFH can sort out the weather for sunday so I can actually use the lens!!

Will definetely use them again.

[Jin]

I used LfH back in January when I was going to Norway, Stewart and his team are a benchmark for customer service which all other companies should aspire to be.

The hire is very simple and hassle free and I must admit I enjoyed using their services looking forward to my next hire.

[StewartR]

UPDATE - NEW EQUIPMENT

We've got some stocks of the new Canon Mk III Extenders, 1.4x (http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/canon-ef-extender-14x-iii-251-p.asp) and 2x (http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/canon-ef-extender-2x-iii-235-p.asp).

http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/225697_10150249859536794_162459801793_7661019_7029 491_n.jpg (http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/canon-extenders-11-c.asp)

[kiteninja]

Hi stewart with my local airshow round the corner will be putting in another rental order next week :D.

[si019]

great idea will look in to using you in the near future

[StewartR]

UPDATE - NEW EQUIPMENT

We've taken delivery of a few Nikon SB-900 Speedlights (http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/nikon-speedlight-sb-900-flashgun-252-p.asp). Is there a more capable flashgun in the world? Almost certainly not. Is there a more complicated one with a bulkier user manual? Again, almost certainly not.

http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/ekmps/shops/lensesforhire/images/nikon-speedlight-sb-900-flashgun-252-p.jpg (http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/nikon-speedlight-sb-900-flashgun-252-p.asp)

[StewartR]

UPDATE - NEW LENS

This is the beautiful new(-ish) Nikon AF-S 85mm f/1.4 G (http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/nikon-af-s-85mm-f14-g-253-p.asp). It's the best portrait lens for Nikon users. What else do you need to know?

http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/ekmps/shops/lensesforhire/images/nikon-af-s-85mm-f-1.4-g-253-p.jpg (http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/nikon-af-s-85mm-f14-g-253-p.asp)

[Viv.]

Brilliant - just what i'm looking for.

Will put putting a hire order in, for the Canon 100-400 L USM & maybe the 1.4x extender (for end of October)

Question please - will there be less availability, since it's half term week ?

Thanks.

[StewartR]

Question please - will there be less availability, since it's half term week ?


Half term week is always busy. But you can reserve up to 3 weeks ahead for "short" hires (less than a week) and up to 6 months ahead for "long" hires (a week or longer). So if you're organised, availability won't be a problem.

[Viv.]

Thanks Stewart, delivery is always a challenge. If I get it delivered to work, can I be very specific about where the driver goes ??
Thanks.

[StewartR]

If I get it delivered to work, can I be very specific about where the driver goes ??

Well you can try, but ... realistically most delivery drivers have to make 150 or so drops each day, so they won't want to hang around. They'll generally look for someone to sign for the parcel at reception or goods inward, or somewhere else as near the front door as possible. So if you work on a big site and you need it delivered to a specific building, that might work; but if you want it delivered to a specific place within a building, that probably won't. Best to ensure that the staff at reception know it's coming.

[Viv.]

Thanks Stewart.

Our goods in can loose an elephant (I don't jest) - doing back to the drawing board .....

[Mydadssideburns]

Hi
I was wondering if you have any policies on taking the hired Lenses abroad?

[StewartR]

I was wondering if you have any policies on taking the hired Lenses abroad?
Yep. We insist that you bring them back.

Otherwise, No problem. Our insurance is good for up to 60 days worldwide. You wouldn't be covered if you were visiting war zone, or the interior of a volcano or anything like that, but otherwise it's fine.

[sophie]

I'm looking to some resources for renting pro lenses in Montreal. Do you have any information to help me there?

[StewartR]

I'm looking to some resources for renting pro lenses in Montreal. Do you have any information to help me there?
I'd go to Lens Rentals Canada (http://www.lensrentalscanada.com/). It's run by Craig Blair, the guy who's also responsible for Canon Rumors (http://www.canonrumors.com/), so they know what they're talking about. And they've licensed their software (and possibly their name) from LensRentals (http://www.lensrentals.com), who are the biggest and best online lens hire company in the world, so they're going to be pretty competent and trustworthy.

[StewartR]

UPDATE - NEW LENS

We've finally got our hands on the Canon EF 200mm f/2 L IS USM and it was definitely worth the wait. It is totally awesome. Built like a tank. Unbelievably sharp. Sensational background blur. Rock solid IS. It's probably the best lens Canon have ever made.

It's our new favourite lens and it will be yours too. Details and prices on our web site here (http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/canon-ef-200mm-f2-l-is-usm-255-p.asp).

http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/ekmps/shops/lensesforhire/images/canon-ef-200mm-f-2-l-is-usm-255-p.jpg (http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/canon-ef-200mm-f2-l-is-usm-255-p.asp)

[michaelg]

Hi Stewart,

Any plans to get the Nikon 16-85mm in?

I'm planning to buy one to go with my new D7000 but need to sell my D3000, kit lens and 55-200mm to fund it first!

Not to mention pay off the D7000 :thinking:

[StewartR]

Any plans to get the Nikon 16-85mm in?
Not at present.

It's really hard for us to make money from lenses which cost less than about £500, unless they're quite specialised (e.g. fast primes, macro, etc.). The problem is that our costs are essentially the same whether a lens costs £500 or £5000, but what we can charge for a hire is limited by the purchase price - and that's particularly so for "all-purpose" lenses which people could justify buying themselves more easily than a "specialist" lens.

Sorry.

[michaelg]

Hi Stewart,

No problem, that makes sense! I guess if I don't sell my previous camera & lens soon I might be tempted to rent the 17-55mm f/2.8 for a few days!

Thanks again!

[StewartR]

UPDATE - NEW LENS

We've been thinking about Zeiss lenses for a while and we've decided it's time to dip our toes into the water. This is the Zeiss Distagon T* 18mm f/3.5 ZE (http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/zeissc-distagon-t-18mm-f35-ze-256-p.asp) for Canon users. The build quality has to be seen/felt to be believed, and the image quality is just as good. It's a great lens for the serious landscape photographer, or anyone interested in astro photography or capturing the Aurora Borealis.

http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/ekmps/shops/lensesforhire/images/zeiss-c-distagon-t-18mm-f-3.5-ze-256-p.jpg (http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/zeissc-distagon-t-18mm-f35-ze-256-p.asp)

[brett23]

Hi Stewart

I was looking on your website over the weekend to hire the Tokina 11-16. I live in N Ireland and when i add the lense to the basket the postage is £22, however on your Question and Answer section it states



"Do you deliver to Northern Ireland? To the Isle Of Man?

Yes, and yes. But delivery costs are an issue which need further research, not to mention a pocket calculator at times.

Royal Mail Special Delivery treats both Northern Ireland and the Isle Of Man as part of the UK, which of course is correct for NI but technically not correct for IOM. This means that the RMSD prices in the table above also apply to NI and IOM.

However, our normal couriers have a different – and much more complicated – tariff for NI and IOM. We could try to describe it here, but life’s too short. Instead, we use the services of Fast Lane International, another local firm who just happen to be the largest DHL agents in the south of England. This will cost you £11.75 for most lenses, and £16.50 for the very largest ones. You can use their web site to book the return carriage directly without needing to have an account.

If you find all this a bit confusing, feel free to contact us and we can quote you for delivery of a specific lens."


Could you confirm what the cost is. £22 seems like quite alot for postage as RMSD is considerable less and as you state we are part of the UK over here.

Thanks for your help

Brett

[StewartR]

I live in N Ireland and when i add the lense to the basket the postage is £22, however on your Question and Answer section it states ....

Could you confirm what the cost is. £22 seems like quite alot for postage as RMSD is considerable less and as you state we are part of the UK over here.

Sure. This is a complicated one unfortunately.

Firstly, I'm afraid we don't generally use RMSD for routine weekday deliveries. It's just too much work. We may use them on occasion if they're the only/best option for guaranteeing deliveries - for example in the 2010 snow they were coping better than most couriers, so we switched to RMSD in bulk - but we need a good reason.

(We do use RMSD on Fridays for Saturday deliveries, because couriers are generally exorbitantly expensive on Saturdays, but that's it.)

Secondly, the delivery section of our web site doesn't allow us to offer an infinite number of options, so we've had to lump all the bits which aren't the GB mainland together. That includes Northern Ireland, but also the Isle of Man, the Isle Of Wight, the Channel Islands, and the Republic of Ireland. Unfortunately delivery costs aren't exactly the same to all of those destinations, so we've simplified the tariff. Inevitably that means there are some winners and losers. If you want a small lens delivered to Northern Ireland, you're one of the losers (i.e. the simplified charge is probably more than it costs us, and we're making a small profit on it). If you want a big lens, you'll probably be one of the winners (and we'd be making a small loss on it). If you live on the Isle Of Man it's probably quite a good deal. And so on.

Sorry if that's not the answer you were hoping for. If you can suggest a better way of doing it, I'd be happy to consider it.

[essexash]

hi Stewart.

Is there any reason why you wont deliver to certain parts of Cornwall? TR18 in particular.

Ive been trying to hire a lens but just been told you wont deliver it to me down there. Or the area of the postcode i entered anyway as you do have some TR postcodes which would appear to be fine.

I was told "Insurance reasons". I cant say ive noticed that part of cornwall being any more dangerous than the rest of it or certain parts of the world which you dont mind people taking the lenses off to.

[StewartR]

Is there any reason why you wont deliver to certain parts of Cornwall? TR18 in particular.
No.

But there is a very good reason why we won't deliver to you in Cornwall. We've explained it by email. If you want any further clarification, please use email as I don't discuss security issues in public.

[bennie]

Stewart

I have a Nikon D40 and a 70-300 nikon lens.

I need a longer one to take pictures of birds.

Have you anything that will autofocus on my camera.

Regards
Bob

[StewartR]

I have a Nikon D40 and a 70-300 nikon lens.

I need a longer one to take pictures of birds.

Have you anything that will autofocus on my camera.

They're all listed on our Nikon super-telephoto page (http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/nikon-super-telephoto-20-c.asp), Bob:

Sigma APO 50-500mm f/4-6.3 EX DG HSM
Nikon AF-S 200-400mm f/4 G IF-ED VR
Sigma APO 300-800mm f/5.6 EX DG HSM
Nikon AF-S 400mm f/2.8 D IF-ED
Nikon AF-S 500mm f/4 G ED VR
Nikon AF-S 600mm f/4 D IF-ED


Plus, in addition, you can get to longer than 300mm by using any of the following lenses with a Nikon Teleconverter (which your lens isn't compatible with):

Nikon AF-S 70-200mm f/2.8 G IF-ED VR (with 1.7x or 2x TC)
Nikon AF-S 70-200mm f/2.8 G ED VR II (with 1.7x or 2x TC)
Nikon AF-S 200mm f/2 G IF-ED VR (with 1.7x or 2x TC)
Nikon AF-S 300mm f/4 D IF-ED (with 1.4x or 1.7x TC)
Nikon AF-S 300mm f/2.8 G IF-ED VR (with 1.4x, 1.7x or 2x TC)

[PhotoTalk]

Scrap that - found the answers on the site.

[PaulF]

Hi Stewart,

I would like to hire a Nikon 70-200 f/2.8 for the last weekend in April.

Would I be able to have it delivered to my wife's work?

I work on a large site where the lens could be delivered to 1 of 3 or 4 places onsite or could be refused. I also sometimes work on other sites so cannot at this time say for certain that I will be there on a particular day at the end of this month.

Thanks in advance.
Paul.

[StewartR]

I would like to hire a Nikon 70-200 f/2.8 for the last weekend in April.

Would I be able to have it delivered to my wife's work?
Our insurers lay down quite strict rules about what we can and can't do, Paul, and (for reasons which I hope are obvious) I don't discuss them in public. Drop us an email to help[at]lensesforhire.co.uk and we'll see what we can do for you. Email is better than a PM here because I'm not on TP all the time, but emails are monitored continuously while the office is open.

[PaulF]

Ok, no problem I'll email later with a few options that may be ok with your insurers

Cheers
Paul

[StewartR]

UPDATE - NEW EQUIPMENT

We all know that photography is all about the light, and macro photography is no different. We've just got hold of the ultimate macro flash solution for Nikon shooters - the Nikon R1C1 Close-Up Speedlight Commander Kit (http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/nikon-r1c1-close-up-speedlight-commander-kit-273-p.asp). So far as I'm aware, we're the only UK hire operator to offer this. Details, prices and availability on our web site here (http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/nikon-r1c1-close-up-speedlight-commander-kit-273-p.asp).

http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/ekmps/shops/lensesforhire/images/nikon-r1c1-close-up-speedlight-commander-kit-273-p.jpg (http://www.lensesforhire.co.uk/nikon-r1c1-close-up-speedlight-commander-kit-273-p.asp)