Getting way off topic here, but just wanted to point out that a quality DP with HD camera will probably go through 4 grand very, very quickly.

A guy with a Varicam package will go from $1200-$1500 a day, more or less.
But if you're talking about a guy with an HDV camera package, you might could do that for $800 or so per day.

Even more off topic: What else would need to be included in that HDV package to go for $800 (other than artistic ability and tons of knowledge about the camera)?

Well, depending on where you are, and the specific camera...the camera might rent from $200-$300 a day, probably add another hundred for tripod and other accessories...wireless mic system? another 50 or so...Cameraman rates go from $300 at the low end to around $600 at the high end. The Z1 was renting for $250 last time I looked but probably has come down by now. It seems when a new camera like that is out, it'll rent at an inflated price, and then after a year or so it will drop to around $150. Of course everything varies by locale and work available. If a person isn't busy and you said you had 400 bucks a day to pay, he might take it. If there is a big chunk of shooting time, like 2 or 3 weeks, most people will give you a deal.

I'm planning on buying this camera, and inbetween projects I hope to rent it out to people locally. I live in Austin. I'm trying to figure out how I would find people who are looking to rent an A1. Anybody know how to advertise? I could rent myself, too over winter break or weekends, etc.

Make sure that's legal in your area.

Check with austinfilmtools.com - I believe they were looking for individuals with cameras to rent out... looks like a pretty good place. I've read some of Michael's articles, helpful info.

Don

Hahaha.

I'll check that website. Thanks.

You can get camera guys and their equipment pretty cheap right now. Cheaper than you think.

That said, if you are really making something of quality, you need AC, sound guy (maybe two) grip and truck, etc. That's what seems to run up the budget.