Overview
Welcome to the SFTV Camera Services Department! This guide explains how to check out camera gear, submit equipment request forms, participate in the Camera Lottery, and navigate the rental process for your production classes.
Students in Prod 200/379/500/550 do not need to participate in the lottery. Cameras and equipment for Prod 200/379/500/550 are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis.
Step-by-Step Equipment Checkout Guide
Step 1: Complete an Equipment Request Form
Choose the correct form for your class:
- Advanced Camera Reservation form Prod 490 / 650 /680
- Intermediate Camera Reservation form Prod 390 / 600
- Prod 200/379/500/550
Important: Forms must be filled out completely; incomplete forms will not be accepted.
- Submit in-person (COM 109).
- Submission window: Wednesday 9:00 AM – Thursday 12:00 PM (noon), two weeks before your checkout date.
Tip: Submit early to ensure your equipment request is processed smoothly.
Step 2: Lottery (Student Productions 390, 490, 600, 650 only)
- The lottery takes place on Thursday at 12:15 PM in the Camera Equipment Services Room (COM 109).
- Attendance is optional.
- Lottery results are emailed the Monday following the lottery, 10 days before your scheduled checkout.
- You may also email SFTV Camera Services or visit the Camera Equipment Room to learn your lottery number.
Step 3: Cuts Notification
- Cuts are available on Wednesday following the lottery.
- Stop by Camera Services anytime from noon onward to view your cuts.
- Cuts may change due to lost or damaged equipment.
Policy for Changing Your Equipment Form:
- You maintain priority for changes submitted by end of the day on the cuts release day.
- Changes after that are first-come, first-served based on availability.
- Changes can be made in person or via email to sftvcameraservices@lmu.edu.
Step 4: Prep and Checkout
Prep Hours: Thursday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
You have a two-hour window to prep gear. Three prep bays are available per slot:
9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Sign up via email (include a backup slot) or in person.
Late Policy: 20-minute grace period; after that, you lose your slot and will be moved to the next available prep bay.
Prep Checklist:
- Check all assigned equipment is on your order.
- Take inventory and test functionality.
- Report any damage or missing items BEFORE leaving the building.
- Sign off on your order before checkout.
Additional Guidelines:
- Equipment will only be released to the student or their representative.
- Equipment should always be stored safely, away from extreme heat or cold, dirt, or moisture.
- Representatives must demonstrate knowledge of the equipment, and the student’s name must be on the reservation form.
Step 5: Returns
- Student Productions 390/490/600/650: Monday before noon
- Prod 200 / 500: Return according to your two-day rental schedule
- Returns include items left on stage or in the cage; all gear must be returned to Camera Services.
- Clean and organize all equipment and report any damage immediately.
Step 6: Financial Responsibility/Fines
- You are responsible for any lost, stolen, or damaged equipment once checked out.
- Equipment will not be released to anyone not listed on the reservation form.
- No-show pickup: Fine + possible suspension of checkout privileges
- Late return: Daily late fee
- Damage or missing items: Replacement or repair costs billed to the student
Please handle gear carefully—this protects both you and the SFTV community.
You assume FULL RESPONSIBILITY for any loss or damage to equipment when you sign the reservation contract. (See “The SFTV Equipment Policy”)
