What Is Dry Hire and Is It Right for Your Next Production?

When you’re planning your next shoot, one term you might come across is dry hire. Whether you’re filming a short video, photographing a new product range, or creating a marketing campaign, choosing between dry hire and other studio hire options can shape your whole production experience. If you’ve ever wondered what dry hire actually means — and whether it’s the best choice for you — this guide breaks it down in plain English.

What Is Dry Hire?

In the simplest terms, dry hire means hiring a studio space (or equipment) without an in-house crew or production services included. You get full access to the facilities, but you bring your own creative team, cameras, lighting setup, and crew.

Think of it like renting a car — you get the vehicle, but you’re the driver. In a dry hire studio, you have the freedom to run your shoot exactly the way you want it, without extra services you may not need.

At TSS Studios in the Sutherland Shire, dry hire is all about providing a state-of-the-art production space while giving you complete creative control. You focus on your vision — we provide the perfect environment to make it happen.

Why Choose Dry Hire?

Dry hire isn’t for everyone — but for the right project, it’s a game-changer. Here’s why many creatives and production teams prefer it:

• Creative control – You call the shots on lighting, camera angles, and shoot flow.

• Budget-friendly – No additional costs for crew or unnecessary extras.

• Bring your own team – Work with the people you know and trust.

• Flexibility – Customise the space and schedule to suit your project.

For example, a marketing agency shooting branded content might already have their go-to videographer and editor. In that case, dry hire makes perfect sense — they just need the right studio space.

Dry Hire vs Wet Hire – What’s the Difference?

You might also hear the term wet hire. The main difference is:

• Dry Hire → You hire the space/equipment only. No crew included.

• Wet Hire → The space/equipment plus in-house crew and/or production services are provided.

At TSS Studios, we specialise in dry hire for both photography and videography, but our friendly team is always on hand to assist if you need help with equipment setup or troubleshooting.

Who Is Dry Hire Best For?

Dry hire can work for a wide range of creatives and industries:

• Photographers – From portraits to e-commerce shoots

• Videographers – Music videos, interviews, product promos

• Marketing teams – Social media campaigns, ads, brand films

• Content creators – YouTube, TikTok, Reels, podcasts

• Entertainment industry – Audition tapes, showreels, live-streamed performances

If you already have your own crew and just need a professional, well-equipped space, dry hire is the way to go.

The Benefits of Dry Hire at TSS Studios

Not all studios are created equal. Choosing the right space can make your shoot smoother, faster, and more enjoyable. At TSS Studios, our dry hire packages include:

• Sound-treated studio room (4.5m x 7.5m)

• Green screen cyclorama (4.5m x 3m) with blackout option

• Motorised black velvet curtains for full light control

• LED lighting grid with adjustable panels

• 3 x 43” studio TV monitors on movable stands

• Beauty room with hair and makeup stations

• Guest entertainment area with lounges and an 85” TV

• Kitchen/bar area with seating for 13 people

• Changeroom & bathroom for comfort during long shoots

• Onsite parking (no Sydney CBD parking headaches!)

  
  

You can view our full facilities list here.

When Dry Hire Might Not Be Right for You

While dry hire is incredibly flexible, there are situations where a wet hire might suit you better:

• You don’t have a crew or production team

• You want a “hands-off” experience where the studio handles everything

• You need specialist operators for complex gear

• You prefer having an in-house team handle lighting and camera setup

If this sounds like your situation, it’s worth discussing hybrid options where we provide light assistance without a full production package.

Tips for a Successful Dry Hire Shoot

If you’ve decided dry hire is right for your next project, here are some tips to get the most out of your booking:

1. Plan your gear list – Make sure you bring everything you need (cables, lenses, backup batteries).

2. Do a recce – Visit the studio beforehand (we offer a free tour).

3. Assign roles – Make sure everyone on your team knows their job on the day.

4. Arrive early – Give yourself extra time to set up and test lighting/audio.

5. Communicate with the studio – Let us know if you have special requirements (e.g., blackout, custom backdrop, extra furniture).

   
   

Dry Hire at TSS Studios – The Freedom to Create

At TSS Studios, dry hire is about giving you the space and flexibility to create without limits. Whether you’re a seasoned filmmaker, a marketing team producing a campaign, or a content creator trying something new, our facilities are designed to help you work at your best.

With premium equipment, versatile spaces, and the freedom to bring your own crew, dry hire is the smart choice for productions that demand creative control.

Dry hire is the perfect option for creatives who want a professional space without unnecessary extras. It gives you the freedom to work with your own team, stick to your own vision, and make the most of your budget.

If you’re ready to see how dry hire at TSS Studios can work for you, book a free tour today or call us on 1300 698 558.