The Fujifilm X100 series, particularly the Fuji X100V and its successors, has become one of the most iconic compact cameras in modern photography. With its vintage aesthetic, fixed 23mm f/2 lens, hybrid viewfinder, and exceptional image quality, the Fuji X100 is the perfect companion for street photographers, travelers, content creators, and professionals seeking a portable solution without sacrificing quality.
If you’re planning to rent a Fuji X100 in Chicago, you’ve made an excellent decision. The Windy City offers endless photo opportunities, from the architectural wonders of the Loop to the vibrant energy of Wicker Park. Below, we provide a detailed, comprehensive guide to help you find the best rental options, understand pricing, and get the most out of your Fuji X100 rental in Chicago.
Why Rent a Fuji X100 in Chicago?
Experience Premium Photography Without Full Investment
The Fujifilm X100V and newer models are premium cameras, typically priced between $1,300 to $1,800 (if you can even find them in stock). Renting provides:
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Access to high-end equipment at a fraction of the cost
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A chance to test before buying
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A perfect solution for short-term needs like travel, events, or special projects
Chicago Is a Photographer’s Dream
Whether you’re capturing the Chicago skyline from Adler Planetarium, exploring Millennium Park, or walking the streets of Pilsen, the X100’s lightweight design and silent shutter make it ideal for discreet, high-quality street and travel photography.
Top Places to Rent a Fuji X100 in Chicago
1. LensRentals – Nationwide Delivery to Chicago
LensRentals.com is one of the most popular and trusted camera rental platforms in the U.S. While they do not have a physical storefront in Chicago, they offer overnight shipping directly to your location or hotel.
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Fuji X100V Rental Price: Approx. $81 for 4 days, including shipping.
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Add-ons: Extra batteries, SD cards, insurance, cleaning kits.
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Delivery: Fast FedEx delivery with precise scheduling.
Pro Tip: Choose their “LensCap+” insurance to cover accidental damage during rental.
2. BorrowLenses – Quick Ship to Chicago Metro Area
BorrowLenses.com is another top-tier national rental company that delivers to any Chicago ZIP code. They typically carry the X100V or X100VI, depending on availability.
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Rental Duration: From 3 to 14 days.
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Pickup Option: While they don’t have a local store in Chicago, they offer local FedEx pick-up at select authorized locations.
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Price: Starting at $80 for 3 days, excluding accessories.
Their gear is professionally cleaned and calibrated, and rentals include prepaid return labels.
3. Chicago Camera Rental – Local Rental House
If you prefer a local experience with in-person pickup, Chicago Camera Rental, based near River West, is a reliable option.
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Availability: Call ahead to reserve the Fuji X100V or to check on availability of newer models.
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Walk-In Pickups: Available with a valid ID and credit card.
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Rental Rates: Around $45/day or $110 for a weekend package.
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Extras: Tripods, ND filters, external flashes.
You can speak directly with experts who understand the local photo scene and get custom advice for shooting in Chicago.
4. ProCam Photo & Video Gear Rental
Located in Aurora, IL (a short drive from downtown Chicago), ProCam offers competitive local rates and a wide inventory of gear.
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Fuji X100V may be limited in stock due to demand.
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Pickup Required: Must visit store in person.
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Rental Cost: Day rates start at $40, with discounts for multi-day rentals.
They are known for exceptional customer service and flexible rental terms for repeat customers.
What You Get with a Fuji X100 Rental
When renting the Fuji X100, expect the package to include:
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Camera body with fixed 23mm f/2 lens
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Battery and charger
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Neck strap
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Protective case
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User guide (optional)
Some rentals also include an ND filter, crucial for shooting in daylight with wide apertures.
Insurance and Damage Protection
Always opt for insurance when renting expensive gear like the Fuji X100. Most providers offer two levels:
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Basic coverage: Covers manufacturer issues and wear-and-tear.
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Full damage waiver: Covers accidental drops, water damage, and theft (varies by provider).
Check each provider’s terms. For example, LensRentals’ LensCap+ coverage costs around $8–$20, depending on rental length and gear value.
Ideal Locations in Chicago for Fuji X100 Photography
The Fuji X100 shines in both bright sunlight and low light, making it perfect for Chicago’s diverse lighting conditions. Here are top locations to use it:
1. Millennium Park & Cloud Gate (“The Bean”)
Capture reflective surfaces, street scenes, and architecture with sharp clarity and beautiful film simulations.
2. Chicago Riverwalk
Ideal for golden hour and night shots. The hybrid viewfinder helps frame the perfect exposure.
3. Wicker Park & Logan Square
Great for urban culture, murals, local shops, and lifestyle photography.
4. Lincoln Park Conservatory
Use the X100’s macro mode and film simulations to create dreamy, botanical close-ups.
5. Navy Pier at Sunset
The built-in ND filter helps control exposure during sunset shots across Lake Michigan.
Tips to Maximize Your Fuji X100 Rental in Chicago
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Use Classic Chrome or Acros Simulation: Emulates rich, film-like colors and textures for a vintage vibe that matches Chicago’s urban grit.
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Shoot in RAW+JPEG: Allows editing flexibility while still enjoying Fuji’s renowned color science.
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Use Zone Focusing for Street Photography: Set aperture to f/8, manual focus distance at 2m, and capture fleeting moments with zero lag.
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Bring Extra Batteries: The X100 is compact, but battery life is limited plan on 2–3 batteries per day for full coverage.
Renting for Events or Professional Use
Photographers covering events, portraits, or weddings in Chicago often use the Fuji X100 as a silent, unobtrusive second camera. Its leaf shutter makes it perfect for quiet environments like churches or galleries.
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Add accessories: Consider renting a Godox flash compatible with Fuji, or a mini tripod for candid evening shots.
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Use Eye Detection AF: Perfect for capturing spontaneous expressions in busy environments.
Conclusion: Rent the Fuji X100 in Chicago with Confidence
Renting a Fuji X100 in Chicago is one of the smartest decisions for any photographer seeking premium image quality without lugging heavy gear. With multiple trusted rental services both local and national you have access to competitive prices, flexible pickup and return options, and expert support.
Whether you’re photographing the architectural beauty of downtown, capturing vibrant street scenes, or exploring hidden gems across the city, the Fuji X100 delivers unparalleled results in a discreet, stylish form factor.
