Camera repair workshop for film and broadcast crews

Production companies, freelance camera operators, hire houses, broadcasters, universities and event companies that can't afford a camera being out of action.

Labour and parts per repair, plus service contracts and pre-shoot checks for regular clients. Urgent and after-hours call-outs can be charged at a higher rate.

• Professional-level electronics repair
• Knowledge of broadcast and cinema camera systems
• Reliable turnaround and client relationships

• Public liability and product or professional indemnity insurance, plus cover for high-value client equipment
• Check your workshop lease and council zoning allow this kind of use
• Manufacturers may have warranty rules that affect third-party repairs, so check how that applies to your clients
• Workers compensation insurance if you hire help, with rules that vary by state
• Check electrical safety requirements, such as testing and tagging, for your workshop tools
• Reliance on a few big clients can make income uneven

Startup costs are estimated at typically around $8,000 to $35,000, depending on your premises, tools, test gear and insurance. Monthly revenue is estimated at around $4,000 to $15,000, depending on your client mix and how many jobs you complete.

Check your workshop lease and council zoning allow this use, and your insurance for high-value client equipment. Manufacturer warranty rules may affect third-party repairs. Also check workers compensation if you hire, and electrical safety such as testing and tagging.

Estimates suggest at least around 30 hours a week, depending on workload. You'll need professional-level electronics repair, knowledge of broadcast and cinema camera systems, and reliable turnaround. Relying on a few big clients can make income uneven.