Even in the realm of low-budget filmmaking, the price tag for pursuing your passion can be somewhat discouraging. Rather than allowing money to act as a permanent roadblock between you and your dreams, it’s important to create a cost-effective plan for getting your film off the page and onto the screen. As an equipment leasing, financing and mortgage company, First Option Capital is a helpful source for financial assistance and services.
Established in 2005, First Option Capital bridges together the media industry and financial world with over 20 years of combined experience in both. The company provides financial solutions for businesses while supplying customers with quick and easy applications to lease equipment from these businesses.
If you’re in need of film and video equipment, First Option Capital has developed a strong relationship with the industry to provide the appropriate leasing arrangements for each individual filmmaker. “We understand how the equipment works and we understand the value of obtaining it in a timely manner for our clients,” says Larry Shultz, director of strategic accounts. From the new products presented each January at the Consumer Electronics Show to the soon-to-be released Apple iPad, technology is constantly evolving and leasing equipment allows the customer to use the latest equipment without being stuck with buying products that eventually will be outdated.
Unlike the loads of paperwork required at banks or conventional lenders, First Option Capital is able to approve leases up to $75,000 with a simple one-page lease application that’s responded to within 48 hours of its submission. First Option Capital provides speedy service to its customers, but they also focus on building strong relationships with their clientele. “Our value and specialty is perhaps best recognized with how we structure and develop a road map for our clients financing objectives and goals,” Shultz says. For financial, leasing and mortgage services, First Option Capital is a lucrative and reliable choice.
Behind The Scenes at Visual Products
By: Sophia Chea
Whether you are a student or a seasoned professional in the film industry, if a discontinued camera or lens is what you’re after, Visual Products is only a mere click away. Visual Products consists of a talented team of sales and technical people who assist clients worldwide. Their Ohio based facilities include a large showroom that houses cameras, dollies, support gear as well as large jib arms and cranes.
For the services and products they offer, being based in this unlikely state doesn’t hold business back at all, Manager Rick Benton told us. Though most people think they would be located in film industry dominated states such as New York or Los Angeles, this is no concern for Rick at all as he explains to me why Visual Products sets itself apart from the competition: “Our company has very experienced technicians who refurbish and service equipment in-house to optimize its use and looks. We do not just mark up prices just because we are the middle man. Care and attention is spent on our products so our client will get quality.”
Aside from these great services he also mentioned a huge factor that may make Visual Products the place you choose: Customer Service. “How would you describe your service?” we asked. “We offer exceptional service as we have Customer Service Specialists who are experts in our products and what the client is looking for. A client may have an idea or vision but may not know how to produce it…well that’s where we are able to offer a lot of information and therefore provide that great service clients not only want but need.” Rick also emphasized on how important it is to go to companies such as Visual Products instead of eBay for instance. “We offer warranty on all our products.”
“From converting your camera or lens to Super 16, to adding a video tap, to replacing a damaged lens element, to machining that one of a kind bracket for your dolly, Visual Products has the ability, the Personnel and the facilities to do it— and do it right” says the very informative website. Browse through the site for other useful tips, links and details on what Visual Products and what Rick Benton’s team is all about!
