Machina Rentals
At Machina, we are committed to providing unparalleled support and delivering the right equipment.
Different glass for different ways of seeing.
Our Canon collection spans modern cinema primes, vintage character, photo glass, and versatile zooms—from CN-R and CN-E to TLS FD, EF, and RF.
Different formats. Different generations. Different optical approaches. All under one roof and ready to build into your next camera package.
Sometimes finding the right lens starts with having enough options on the prep table.
09/04/2026
Go wide.
Join Machina on Wednesday, September 16 from 4–5 PM for a hands-on Gear Showcase featuring the DZOFilm X-Tract 18–28mm lenses.
One of our technicians will break down the glass, image characteristics, and practical applications before opening things up for hands-on testing and questions.
Come see where the X-Tract lenses could fit into your next camera package.
Free and open to the public.
RSVP through the Luma link in our bio.
08/20/2026
Great lighting showcases your work better.
The Aputure STORM 400x is distinguished by its exceptional color performance, brightness, and controllability.
Featuring a breakthrough BLAIR light engine, it delivers the highest quality white light and greatest +- green adjustability of any LED technology, achieving exceptional color tuning control without gels. Its brightness output can match or exceed higher-wattage COB lights with a compact powerhouse.
Equipped with ProLock Locking Bowens mount, flexible control options and head-to-toe protection, this light is also able to handle diverse production environments.
Compared to STORM 400x, the STORM 700x offers higher brightness levels and color accuracy levels while retaining the innovative BLAIR chipset and control experience.
Paired with the CF10 Fresnel lens, it can deliver over 19,000 lux at 3m. Its full CCT range of 2,500 to 10,000K enhanced with green-magenta color correction makes white-point control more precise.
These two lights are ideal for commercial shoots, interviews, and mid-to-large-scale productions, providing a reliable lighting solution with high output, precise white-light color performance in a weather-resistant design.
08/18/2026
Two Sony systems. Two different approaches to the image.
Join us Wednesday, August 26 from 4–5 PM for our next Gear Showcase, featuring the Sony FX5 and Sony a7R VI.
We’ll put both cameras on the prep table for a practical, hands-on look at their capabilities, workflows, and where each system makes sense on set. Our team will be available to walk through the builds, answer questions, and give you time behind the cameras.
For DPs, camera operators, ACs, photographers, and anyone interested in seeing how these two systems compare before putting them to work. Free and open to the public. Sign up through the Luma link in our IG bio.
Small size does not take away from powerful performance.
The DZOFILM Arcana Anamorphic lenses stand out with their exceptional convenience, flexibility, stability, and image quality.
Designed with consistent weight and gear spacing across the 32mm, 45mm, and 75mm lenses, the set allows for quick swaps without rebalance—making handheld and gimbal setups more efficient.
A 1.5x squeeze, oval bokeh, and dynamic flares bring a distinct anamorphic look with characteristic visual effects, making it well suited for various shooting applications.
Extra low dispersion and high-refraction elements help maintain a balanced between center and edge sharpness, delivering consistent image quality across the frame.
As a compact addition, the lens set gives filmmakers more freedom when framing their shots.
07/24/2026
The equipment matters, but so do the people behind it.
At Machina, many of the people helping build your camera package, answering your questions, or troubleshooting on prep day have stood where you are. We've experienced the pressure of call times, unexpected challenges, and the feeling of needing your equipment to simply work.
That's why our job doesn't end when the gear leaves the building.
Whether it's helping dial in a camera build, answering a technical question from set, or making sure you're prepared before the first shot, we're invested in helping your production succeed from prep to wrap.
Because great support isn't just about knowing the equipment—it's about understanding the people using it.
See the difference on your next cinema or photo rental.
07/17/2026
High-speed imaging deserves a closer look.
Join the Machina team on Wednesday, July 22, from 7:00–10:00 PM for a hands-on Gear Showcase featuring the Freefly Ember S5K.
Designed for filmmakers, cinematographers, camera operators, and anyone curious about high-speed production, this session will explore what makes the Ember S5K such a unique addition to modern camera workflows. Our technicians will walk through the system's capabilities, recommended setups, and real-world applications, followed by time to get your hands on the camera, ask questions, and explore it up close.
Whether you're considering the Ember S5K for an upcoming project or simply want to spend time with the technology, this is an opportunity to see it in a practical production environment.
Free to attend. Reserve your spot through the Linktree in our bio.
Some lenses don't just change your focal length—they change the character of the image.
Mirror reflex lenses use a folded optical path to achieve long telephoto reach in a compact form factor, making them a practical option when space and weight are considerations. Their unique design also produces the distinctive donut-shaped bokeh that people have come to know and love.
Whether you're looking for compressed perspectives, stylized backgrounds, or a creative alternative to traditional telephoto glass, mirror reflex lenses offer a look that's difficult to replicate. Where would you use a mirror reflex lens next?
07/01/2026
This year, we went all out for Filmscape 2026🎬
Last weekend Machina was stationed at Filmscape with more than 10 set ups showcasing our newest cameras, lenses, lights and even more.
We were able to meet so many individuals who have the passion for filmmaking and connect deeper with the community. Thank you everyone who came to our booth intrigued, and asked questions. Also, a huge thanks to Filmscape Chicago for letting us be present once again.
Filmscape 2026 may be over, but our doors are always open. Stop by anytime—we're here to help with your next shoot.
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5645 N Ravenswood Avenue
Chicago, IL
60660