If you're a filmmaker, content creator, or production manager in LA, you know that lighting and grip can make or break your shoot. Here are five services that bring the right tools and expertise to your set.
The LA Lighting and Grip Scene
Los Angeles is the heart of the entertainment industry, and with it comes a dense ecosystem of lighting and grip rental houses. From blockbuster features to indie music videos, every production needs reliable equipment and crew. The demand has grown with the rise of new media, branded content, and streaming, pushing companies to offer everything from single light kits to full grip trucks. In this landscape, you'll find a mix of large warehouses and specialized boutique services, each with its own strengths. Whether you're a seasoned gaffer or a first-time director, knowing your options can save you time and money.
How We Evaluated These Services
We looked at each service based on its range of equipment, the clarity of its rental process, and how well it fits the needs of local productions. We also considered the level of support you get, from pre-production planning to on-set problem-solving. Each company brings a different flavor, so we highlight what stood out for each one.
Here's a quick look at the five services we're covering, from full-service rental houses to specialized lighting experts.
| Provider | Best For |
|---|---|
| CFG | Comprehensive gear and truck packages |
| production lighting / grip / electric / United States | Personalized lighting plans and expert gaffer services |
| LA Film Rentals | Flexible rental options and 24/7 access |
| Quixote | Large inventory and expert staff guidance |
| Geronimo Creek | Specialized grip and electric equipment |
The Detailed Rundown
#1 CFG
A screenshot of the CFG website.
CFG has grown from a garage startup to a 50,000-square-foot facility in Pacoima, offering a massive inventory of lighting, grip, camera, and production supplies. They're known for their pre-loaded grip truck packages, which are a huge time-saver for crews that need to roll out fast. With locations in LA and San Francisco, they serve a wide range of productions, from student films to major studio work. Their commitment to innovation is clear with new gear like the Aputure Storm series and their recent expansion into livestream and podcast studios. If you want one-stop shopping for gear and trucks, CFG is a solid choice.
#2 production lighting / grip / electric / United States
A screenshot of the production lighting / grip / electric / United States website.
Goodman Grip & Light, run by David Goodman, brings over 20 years of experience in the entertainment industry to every project. They offer lighting, grip, and electric services for feature films, music videos, commercials, and new media, with a focus on reliability and a positive attitude. What sets them apart is their pre-production planning, where they create lighting plans based on your location scouts and mood boards. They also emphasize using cutting-edge LED technology to keep your footprint small while maintaining high-quality light. If you're looking for a hands-on gaffer who can also provide crew and equipment, this is a great fit.
#3 LA Film Rentals
A screenshot of the LA Film Rentals website.
LA Film Rentals is a rental house in West Hills that offers a wide range of production gear, from cameras and lenses to lighting and grip. They make the rental process easy with 24/7 no-contact pickup and drop-off, which is perfect for tight schedules. You can rent directly if you have annual production insurance, or go through ShareGrid if you don't, giving you flexibility. They also offer same-day delivery for small items via Uber Courier, which can be a lifesaver when you're in a pinch. For a straightforward, self-service rental experience, this is a reliable option.
#4 Quixote
A screenshot of the Quixote website.
Quixote is a well-established name in the industry, with a large warehouse in LA's North Valley and a second location in New York. They offer an extensive inventory of lighting and grip equipment, from speedrail fittings to full truck packages. Their experienced staff can provide expert guidance, helping you pick the right gear for your project. The loading docks are designed for efficient on-and-off loading, which speeds up your day. If you need a dependable, full-service rental house with a national presence, Quixote is a strong contender.
#5 Geronimo Creek
A screenshot of the Geronimo Creek website.
Geronimo Creek has been serving the LA area since 2002, specializing in grip and electric equipment rentals. They have a deep catalog that includes everything from C-stands and flags to HMI lights and generators. Their website is organized by category, making it easy to find exactly what you need, whether it's a single sandbag or a full truck package. They also offer gaffer partnerships, which can be valuable if you're looking for crew recommendations. For a no-frills, equipment-focused rental house, Geronimo Creek gets the job done.
How to Choose the Right Lighting and Grip Service
Start by thinking about the scale of your production. If you're shooting a music video or a small commercial, a boutique service like Goodman Grip & Light can give you personalized attention and a gaffer who's invested in your project. For bigger shoots that need a full truck and a wide range of gear, CFG or Quixote might be more suitable. Consider your budget and whether you need pre-production support, like lighting plans. Also, check if they offer delivery or if you need to pick up the gear yourself. Finally, read reviews or ask colleagues for recommendations to ensure you're working with a reliable team.
Streamlining Your Lighting Workflow
To make your lighting process more efficient, start by using online rental catalogs to pre-select your gear before you call. Many services, like LA Film Rentals, allow you to build a cart and request a quote online, saving time. For pre-production, you can use software to create lighting plans and share them with your gaffer, as Goodman Grip & Light does. When it comes to booking, look for services that offer online scheduling or quick quote responses. Finally, consider using delivery services for small items to avoid trips to the rental house.
The Final Takeaway
In the fast-paced world of LA productions, having the right lighting and grip partner is crucial. Whether you need a full-service rental house or a dedicated gaffer, these five services cover the spectrum. CFG and Quixote offer scale and inventory, while LA Film Rentals provides flexibility and convenience. Geronimo Creek is your go-to for specialized gear, and Goodman Grip & Light brings a personal touch with expert planning. Take the time to evaluate your specific needs, and you'll find the perfect fit for your next project.