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BorrowLenses
Category: Shopping Photography Stores & Services Photography Stores & Services [Edit]
1664 Industrial RdSan Carlos, CA 94070
(650) 508-3370
- Hours:
Mon-Fri 10 am - 6 pm
Sat 10 am - 4 pm
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street, Private Lot
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
Benny G. said: "Go use them! I did and i love the company" read more »
555 reviews for BorrowLenses
Review Highlights
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"Lisa and Matt at borrow lenses are both amazing." In 25 reviews -
"I rented a Canon lens 18-200mm it was in great shape." In 16 reviews -
"The lens was clean and in excellent condition." In 21 reviews
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555 reviews in English
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Review from David O.
5/16/2012
I rented over 10k worth of Canon equipment to beef up my arsenal for a wedding with a confirmed 300 guest list. It was by far the largest gig I'd ever accepted. Photography is not my full-time profession (yet) and I'd never rented equipment from anyone -- and the wedding was less than a week away. Mehh :/
The identity assurance process was really simple -- they asked for my DL, a utility bill and street address -- and once you're in the system you're good for life. I suspect they run your info on a public database somewhere and your home address should match your CC billing-address-on-file, yada yada... Note: this was in 2010.
They were very reasonably priced, had a large in-stock inventory (even in July!), and were quick and painless with pickup and drop-off. I'm an adept procrastinator, so even though I live in Berkeley, the whole shipping thing (which sounds great!) was probably not a good idea. The staff were pleasant and poised to assist with any unfamiliar equipment.
A great overall experience and everything was in great shape. I will use them again and refer anyone I feel deserves a quality experience in renting photography equipment. -
Review from Justin y.
Shawnee, KS
5/1/2012
I recently used Borrow Lenses for the first time, and I will definitely be a repeat customer.
The price of the rental (This lens: http://www.borrowlense...) was far lower than my local rental options, who didn't even have this particular lens anyways. I received it for the date I started my reservation, and returning it was super easy.
The lens was solid, but my only complaint is that there was a little dust inside the lens, but nothing that appears to have come out in my photos.
I will note that you have to sign for the package when they ship it to you, and in my case that meant I had to have it shipped to work. They also verify the shipping address with the credit-card company (which is understandable), so make sure your shipping address is on file with your CC. In my case, I couldn't use my debit card because my bank doesn't keep shipping addresses like that on file, so keep that in mind. BL was super flexible with me on this, so I don't consider it a negative.
Oh, scratch that, I have two complaints. The second is that I had to give the lens back when I was done. :) -
Review from Nicholas T.
Los Angeles, CA
4/18/2012
I recently found the need to do some equipment testing for developing a new camera rig for my company, and BorrowLenses was an absolute savior. The process was smooth, efficient, and absolutely perfect. They have a great selection of equipment. I do my share of renting from local houses in Los Angeles, and the pricing at BorrowLenses cannot be beat.
The cost shown on the site doesn't include shipping, but, even with that rate added the price is still the best I could find. Placing the order went smoothly, even though I had a somewhat complex payment system due to using a feature films account. Calling them up on the phone was pleasant and they immediately resolved the situation and had the order on it's way.
Providing all the required documents like the driver's license and proof of insurance can be a bit shocking for some, but their online submission process worked great. They have multiple options to accommodate any situation.
Upon verification, the order was shipped on time and arrived exactly when we needed it. After doing our testing of the new rig for a few days, we realized we would need more time. The day of return, we were able to call up and extend the order with absolutely no hassle.
Returning the equipment was as simple as adhering the supplied label and dropping it off in our mail room to be picked up by FedEx. Renting the equipment for our camera test saved us thousands of dollars, and they will definitely be getting more of our business in the future.
Great experience and service from a great company. You need extra camera equipment? This is the place to go. -
Review from Djavad M.
Las Vegas, NV
5/23/2012
They are just so EASY....and friendly and decently priced. And their facebook page is often funny. :)
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Review from Maggie C.
Marina del Rey, CA
5/17/2012
Was referred to BorrowLenses from a friend, and SO glad we used them for our trip to Italy! The Canon EF-S 10-22mm f/3.5-4.5 produced some amazing shots that we wouldn't have gotten otherwise! The lens arrived on time, and shipping back was a breeze. I will absolutely use BorrowLenses in the future!
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Review from Gina C.
San Francisco, CA
5/18/2012
It was so easy renting from http://Borrowlenses.com. I chose to pick up my lens at a local shop and the process was very well-organized. I will definitely rent from them again.
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Review from Rhonda Morrison D.
Allen, TX
5/6/2012
I rented a lens and camera for an important shoot (my gear is getting older and the upgrade is on backorder still). I had a great experience with Borrow Lenses and everything was in great condition and they were fast and easy to work with. Exactly what I needed!
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Review from Matthew R.
Crofton, MD
3/1/2012
I've rented from here twice. The most recent one was for a color calibrator called the ColorMunki. The rental/shipping prices were reasonable and the equipment was in good shape. It came with an install disc that was clearly a copy and not the original. And the Mac OS install program they placed on this CD simply didn't work. However, I was able to download the most recent software from the ColorMunki website. Which in the end turned out to be a better solution. I suggest they update this installer CD the included in the hardware bundle.
My first rental was for a 500mm lens I was taking with me to Alaska for wildlife photography. The lens had a few specks of dust inside of it. Therefore, I had to edit each and every photo I took to remove the dust specs from the pictures. Very cumbersome after a two week wildlife photography trip! Just imagine how many pictures I had to edit.
My point is simple, they have a great idea here and the company has great communication when needed. However, I really wish they would pay more attention to the equipment they rent. The ColorMunki install CD was no big deal. Nevertheless, they should not be shipping out lenses with dust on the interior optics. Will I do business with them again? Yes. But if I get another dirty lens, I'll send it back immediately and dispute my credit card charge. -
Review from Tiffany A.
Honolulu, HI
2/24/2012
Absolutely love this service!! BorrowLenses allowed me the ability to test out one of the lenses I've had my eye on for ages: the 24-105 L series lens. The shipping was quick (I even got it one day earlier!) and the instructions to send it back were easy to follow. I live in Hawaii so the shipping was a bit much but it was 2 day FedEx so how can I really grumble.
I was definitely very satisfied with their service and will use it in the future! -
Review from Sunny W.
2/23/2012
Borrowed once and purchased a used flash ---YEP they also sell used gear.
http://www.borrowlense...
Nikon 17-55mm f/2.8G rental for 3 days picked up in San Carlos was $60.62 (tax and insurance included). The entire transaction was smooth with no hitches.
BF went through their website and found the Nikon SB-600 Speedlight flash used for $160 so $173 total after tax. Had a scratch on it but overall, pretty good! The staff wasn't able to find all the little accessories that was suppose to come with it. When he bought his first one new, it was $220 before tax at Best Buys. Fast forward 2 months....this flash is no longer in production and Amazon is selling it for $500 new, $250 used!!
I would use them again. -
Review from Jude R.
Portland, OR
3/2/2012
This was my first time using BorrowLenses and honestly, it was too easy not to use again.
My rental arrived on time, was well packed and clean. The instructions for returning included pre-printed labels, and were were easy to follow. I rented a Canon 5D, Canon EF 24-70mm and a X800 Flash Unit. The camera battery arrived charged and all the equipment was in great shape.
I just saw that they have a pick up location in Portland now which means I'll save time and money the next time I rent. -
Review from K M.
Alexandria, VA
1/26/2012
I have had nothing but great experiences with Borrow Lenses. The prices are very reasonable and the rental process is very simple. Pick a lens, choose to insure it or not, and choose your preferred method of shipping, either 2 day or overnight. That's it! You need to be home the day that it delivers because a signature is required. Since the return shipping is pre-paid, just re-box the equipment and drop it off at a FedEx facility. That's it! Very easy!
All customer service reps that I've emailed have been very helpful. No complaints there.
My only wish is that they had pick up locations all over the country, particularly, here in the Washington DC area but I'm content having their services available online! -
Review from david c.
San Francisco, CA
4/20/2012
Great selection, customer service, easy pickup and dropoff, and even their website is straight forward and user friendly.
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Review from snorre w.
Washington, DC
4/11/2012
All the staff at http://Borrowlenses.com were extremely helpful and flexible. I highly recommend you rent your gear from them for your next shoot. I know I will.
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Review from Jerry H.
Canal Winchester, OH
4/19/2012
1st. Time using them and every thing was flawless the lenses came in right on time. And in great condition. I will use them again. It's the best way to get great equipment without spending a lot of money.
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Review from Raptor R.
Alhambra, CA
4/19/2012
Their receiving department needs to get their act together. Rented two items from them, one with home delivery, and the second with a local store pick-up. Both items were scheduled to be returned on a Monday which they were. The local store ships the item the next day and BL receives it one day late. BL sends an email out saying since it was my first time they will only charge one extra day instead of the late charge.
After 6 minutes on the phone, they admit it was their mistake. Even though you follow their instructions, they still may try to charge you a late fee. -
Review from Stacey L.
San Francisco, CA
1/5/2012
I first heard about BorrowLenses from my coworker whose rented several Canon lenses. He used the rental service to try out a few lenses before upgrading to full frame.
For me, I wanted to test out the Nikon 17-55 lense at a friends wedding. Killed two birds with one stone. The online ordering went exactly as expected. When I went to pick up the lense at the SF location, I was in and out in less than 20 seconds. -
Review from Diana S.
Bronx, NY
3/30/2012
This service proved very useful for me. I rented my 400mm Nikon lens for my trip to African and i couldnt have done without it. The shipping was very fast and return service was convenient as well. Their prices are also competative.
I would recommend this service to others and would definitely use it again. -
Review from Jeff G.
Chicago, IL
3/27/2012
First time borrower (and not a professional), and what a great experience. Arrived on time to make my safari trip, packed perfectly out to Chicago, with all the info needed to make the return. Couple that with automated emails giving status on the order, and you have yourself a model for customer service. Will certainly use them again and recommend to anyone who asks.
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Review from HungryMut T.
San Leandro, CA
Updated - 1/9/2012
I'm happy to report that as BorrowLenses grows, the quality of service and equipment has not gone downhill at all. Occasionally, if a bunch of photographers show up at the same time, there may be a short wait to pick-up or return equipment but then photographers are known for their lack of patience.
Keep up the great work!1 Previous Review: Show all »
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4/29/2011
I highly recommend to everyone who owns or is thinking of purchasing high end digital equipment to… Read more »
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Review from Robert W.
Campbell, CA
4/13/2012
Great selection of professional gear, good prices and friendly service... what else can you ask for in a rental house? Plus, my office is 20 minutes from their headquarters so it's easy for me to pick up on my lunch break :)
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Review from Jessie M.
Beaumont, TX
4/8/2012
I rented the Canon 10-22mm EF-S Lens from http://Borrowlenses.com, and was thoroughly pleased! I needed a wide angle lens to do an architectural shoot for a client, and they were amazed by how well the wide-angle worked! It is a fantastic way to test lenses that you don't own, and see if it is a lens you would like to buy. The packaging was GRADE A, and the entire process was simple. Their service was prompt and professional, and I could not be any happier with the entire transaction! Thank you http://Borrowlenses.com! You've made me a believer!
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Review from Brian L.
San Francisco, CA
1/5/2012
I've used BorrowLenses for Canon lenses over the last couple years and couldn't be happier. The selection and availability are top notch. Ordering is also a snap with their website. It's also a big plus that the pickup location is a few blocks from my place in SF.
I highly recommend BorrowLenses for trying out new lenses or getting the crazy big lens you'll only use once. -
Review from Vivian L.
12/14/2011
I've rented 2 lenses from this place so far and have had great experiences both times. The people who work here are very knowledgeable and passionate about photography and the equipment so I felt like they know what they are talking about. I found them through a couple of friends who frequently rent lenses from them. They have regular priced lenses as well as the professional series you can rent for a couple days, a week, even longer.
I think the process of ordering and paying online then dropping by to pick up your order is very efficient. I've even called them to ask about 2 different lenses and they were patient with me and helped explain it in a way I could understand as a newbie. -
Review from Kristen K.
Redwood City, CA
Updated - 12/4/2011
My first experience with BorrowLenses was great. I rented a Nikon lens for a trip and everything went well.
The second experience, not so great. I rented a point-and-shoot underwater camera, but when I used the camera under water it broke. They refunded my money.
Borrowlenses seems like they have a lot of good equipment. I'd just stay away from the waterproof cameras.
(Updated 1-8-2011)1 Previous Review: Show all »
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10/14/2010
I had a fantastic experience with Borrow Lens. I rented a Nikon 70-300. I was able to reserve the… Read more »
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Review from Bowerbird P.
San Francisco, CA
2/1/2012
We rented a monitor calibrator from http://borrowlenses.com after a recent wedding we photographed for our company, http://www.bowerbirdph..., in order to ensure that our monitors reflected the true colors of the images we edited, because we require high quality processing. We chose to pick up the monitor calibration devise at one of their drop-off locations instead of incurring a higher shipping fee with a home delivery, which happened to be at RayKo Photo Center. The trip was worth it, because Rayko also curates photo shows, and it was great to be able to look at the artist's photos on the wall. It happened to be a Holga/plastic lens/medium frame format camera show. It's great to see these cameras finally getting the kudos they deserve - we've been experimenting with these cameras ourselves for a long while, and often take our Holga to weddings to get those one-of-a-kind shots.
The monitor calibrator we rented was a ColorMunki Photo device - and it worked well on me and my wife's computer - although the software was a bit of a memory hog.
It's hard to find other monitor calibration devices to rent in San Francisco, and Bowerbird Photography would not hesitate to rent from http://borrowlenses.com in the future for such a use (although it would be nice if they expanded their selections within this category). -
Review from Jet S.
Saratoga, CA
1/5/2012
I've "liked" http://BorrowLenses.com on FB for quite awhile now and have been impressed with their posts and equipment inventory. I finally had need of a rental when I had a quick little job to do right before the holidays but my HD video camera took a crapper. BorrowLenses to the rescue!
The camera I needed was available, the staff friendly, helpful, knowledgeable and the price was right.
I told them I'd be back to rent a digital SLR for a doc I'm shooting, and I will - thanks BorrowLenses. You've got a friend in me :) -
Review from Marc W.
11/11/2011
Is there such a thing as "dog pile reviews"? :)
I'm a super fan of Borrow Lenses. Rented from them many times, and each time, they were so easy to work with. Usually, I just place my order, the lens show up, I use them, and return them. Easy. A time or two, I've had to modify my reservation and worked with the customer support staff. And yet, still easy to work with and my needs were met.
Highly recommended. -
Review from Shawn C.
10/7/2011
My one and only experience with borrowlenses went like this:
Booked my lens, uploaded every detail of my identity to their website, bought additional insurance on my camera policy to cover the lens, booked a whale watching cruise, and booked a trip to safari west (plus scheduling a day off work). In other words I planned a 3-day weekend revolving around the lens I reserved.
After all that, got a call the night before my scheduled pickup and was told the lens was overbooked and unavailable.
This leads me to believe that one of the following is true:
(1) The website is unable to track inventory of available equipment.
(2) My reservation was dropped in favor of a more preferred customer.
Either case is completely unacceptable.
As you might imagine, I'm not at all happy about this. -
Review from Kimberly V.
Huntington Beach, CA
Updated - 11/16/2011
Love Borrow Lenses! Every time I've used their services the equipment has been in excellent condition and arrived on time. For my last rental, they upgraded my CF cards for free. It was a fun surprise when I opened the box and read the packing slip.
Until I own all the equipment I want (which is always changing so not likely to happen) I will continue to use Borrow Lenses.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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11/17/2010
I just used BorrowLenses for the first time and loved it! The equipment came securely packed in… Read more »
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Review from John M.
Redondo Beach, CA
2/9/2012
I typically would rent from Samy's Camera, PRS, or PIX in Los Angeles. I wanted to give BL a try and see how it would pan out in comparison. I am perfectly satisfied, so much so that I doubt I'll ever rent from LA again if I have enough lead time to get my order shipped. The 2 lenses I got were in practically brand new condition. Most of the time the gear from the LA places is on its last legs and should be sold off, cheaply! I can't wait to try more gear from BL!
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Review from Nick L.
10/25/2011
Ordered online with minimum of fuss. Quick email response back confirming order for local pickup at photography store.
Easy pickup process as well.
Lens was in good condition and came with hood, filter and bag.
As this was my first time renting equipment I was a little apprehensive but that wasn't necessary. This is a great and convenient way to check out lenses before making the sometimes difficult decision to part with your hard earned cash.
I'll definitely be using this place for any other similar type endeavors. -
Review from The B.
Bronx, NY
3/21/2012
I used BL twice and was happy both times. Their selection of lenses is fantastic, better then other sites I looked at. I will continue to use this service, especially as a pre cursor to buying a lens. It's nice to also establish what type of lens person you are. I rented the Canon EF 135mm f/2L USM and the Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L II USM, as much as I want to enjoy a prime lens, I really need a zoom lens for what I do. The16-35 is a great lens. I'm looking forward to trying out the Canon EF 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6L IS USM in the near future. My only complaint would be....I wish they had a NYC store for pick-up. :cough cough hint hint for those from BL who may be reading this:-)
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Review from Peter N.
Santa Fe, NM
Updated - 1/10/2012
Rented a telephoto this time; the glass was in pristine condition and the operation was smooth. The selection of equipment is also outstanding.
To echo the concerns of another reviewer, while I appreciate the environmental impact of re-using cardboard boxes, perhaps BorrowLenses could invest in some sturdier re-usable packing containers (if such a thing exists?) or at switch to newer boxes on a slightly more frequent basis. I don't know that I would have felt comfortable shipping my own equipment in the box mine arrived in. Additionally, niceties like including adhesive strips to make sealing and returning the box a snap (similar to returning equipment to Apple for services) would be the icing on the cake. The only other thing that would be helpful for me (as a non-Bay Area resident), would be to highlight the shipping charges so that people can keep it in mind while browsing the site.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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11/20/2009
Great customer service, excellent prices (including insurance). Rented the 24-70/2.8 for a trip to… Read more »
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Review from Carol S.
New York, NY
10/18/2011 1 photo
I'm all the way in NYC and I had such a great experience! I was nervous about the insurance policy since it doesn't cover any water damage or theft (which I guess is understandable) but they were super reassuring over the phone.
I borrowed a 17mm tilt shift lens for my London and Paris trip, and it was GREAT! I would have never been able to use such an awesome lens otherwise, and it was the perfect lens for the scenery and architecture.
They made it super easy and even included a manual for me. Most tilt shift reviews said that there's no real lens cap to this because the lens is dome shaped, so I was surprised that it came with a giant lens cap! Whew.
It was one of the best decisions to rent a lens for a special trip and totally worth the $200. (For 2 weeks, including shipping and insurance.)
Would totally do it again!! -
Review from Ignacio P.
San Francisco, CA
9/26/2011 1 Check-in Here
Even though A photography company should only be judged for their camera equipment and not their staff., Their customer service skills could use some improvement. They have people working in the back that don't support the customers in the front even though at the time of my visit there was a line of people waiting for one person.
From time to time I like to ask advice on camera equipment in order to become more familiar with the equipment. Apparently there is a "you should already know this" policy at the location.
I'd think twice about renting from this location based on how they deal with their customers, not their equipment.
"There is only one boss. The customer. And he can fire everybody in the company from the chairman on down, simply by spending his money somewhere else."
Sam Walton, Walmart -
Review from Gigi C.
Burlingame, CA
3/7/2012
I am terribly disappointed with Borrowlenses customer service today. After being a customer for over 2 years and paying 40+ transactions, I was interrogated by front desk. No, it's NOT about company policy as this individual liked to claim, it's his lack of customer service skills and blaming a loyal customer for not adhering to company policy that did the damage. There are probably nine other ways the individual could choose to handle the situation, instead he chose to damage.
Any business owner understands how much it costs to acquire and keep a customer happy. As a customer, I pay, I pick up the rental and I am happy. If there is problem you employee could not fix, ask your front desk manager for a solution. Simple. Why confront your boss's boss?
Insurance will pay for scratched lens. I wonder what kind of insurance I get to write off such unpleasant experience. -
Review from Kent W.
Grass Valley, CA
12/17/2011
Great Service. Fair prices. I rented a telephoto lens for a wildlife photo workshop in the southwest. I live in California and wanted the lens shipped to a friend's house in Arizona. The catch is that, after I set up the rental, I changed my mind as to a different lens. Called Borrowlenses and they quickly changed the order, the ship date, etc.
the lens arrived as they said in excellent condition, and I dropped it off a day early at a Fedex Kinko's shipping office.
Only little thing was the shipping box had been used many times and the Fedex shipping person was not pleased with the condition of the box but accepted it. this is more of a comment for borrowlenses to correct in the future. i would rent again from this company next time I have a planned trip. -
Review from Liz M.
Palo Alto, CA
2/22/2012
I walked into BorrowLenses happy and wide-eyed not knowing or understanding what I needed for my camera, I just knew I needed a lens. My wonderful boyfriend had bought me a camera I've been drooling over for a while, but I hadn't figured out how to turn it on! Ben Salomon was so patient with me. He took the time to explain how my camera works, he explained how lenses work, and helped me chose the right lens to fit what I wanted to shoot.
As my first time there and after hearing all the rave reviews from my friend who has followed them for years, it was great to get the same experience.
The second time I rented a lens Jo de Guzman rang me up and helped me adjust my order. He asked what I was shooting and suggested a different lens that would work best. He could've just rang me up, taken my money, and be done, but NO he actually cared about the quality of my pictures. Its that attention to detail that will keep me as their faithful customer. -
Review from Rudi H.
Oakland, CA
9/9/2011
Firstly, I have to thank "Borrowlenses" for coming through when local rental houses were out of the camera and lens I needed for the busy labor day wedding weekend.
I used local Sarber's camera store in Montclair as my ship point, allowing me to pickup and drop off there for a lower fee then having it directly delivered to my house. That worked ok, and the package arrived on schedule.
I was disappointed to discover that Borrow Lenses, in contract to local camera stores, rents gear without a protective case. This wasn't a problem when I arrived home as I have my own assortment of cases, but made it somewhat anxiety producing for me to transport a $5k camera and 2k lens home on my scooter while both were simply sitting in a shopping bag. Now that I know, I can plan better and avert this minor headache.
Both items arrived in excellent condition and functioned flawlessly, which of course is most important. I always like to have camera manuals, both to review aspects that I'm not familiar with in using a new camera, and to have a reference available just in case something strange happens (e.g. an error message) during an event I'm photographing. When I asked the person at Sarbers about the absent manuals, he retorted that "most cameras don't come with manuals, you can get them online." Apparently, he doesn't have experience with professional gear which does come with manuals!
I was able to find the manuals online. Two large to print and bring with me (and a waste of a tree) so I downloaded them onto my Kindle to have with just in case. Fortunately, as I typically find the case with Nikon equipment, it was trouble free and the manuals were not used.
Would I rent from Borrow lenses again? Maybe. They are more expensive then local, don't include cases or manuals, and there are shipping fees as well. So, I'd use them again once I exhausted all local options, but would prefer not to.
I recommend trying local companies like Pro-Camera and Calumet first. LookingGlass photo in Berkeley may be worth considering but has even higher prices and much less availability of pro equipment. YMMV.
