Premiere Los Angeles Production Equipment & Camera Rentals for Professional Filmmakers
After fully adopting digital filmmaking in 2011 by only carrying digital cameras, Birns & Sawyer has continued to explore the innovations of the industry by supporting new digital trends, including LED lighting solutions.
Today, we exist for the filmmaker because we love films, we love making films, and we love helping others make their films a reality. We want nothing more than to be a part of your production so you can be a part of our history!
Birns and Sawyer’s History & Management

Our History
Celebrating Over 60 Years of Service
Founded by Jack Birns and Cliff Sawyer in 1954, Birns & Sawyer is a famed motion picture camera rental company that has quickly become the premiere place for professional filmmakers to buy and rent production equipment in Los Angeles.
In 1998, cinematographer/gaffer William Meurer acquired Birns & Sawyer and merged the legacy company with his existing lighting and grip company Gunner Lighting; making Birns & Sawyer a full solution rental house for any production.

Michael Shugrue
President & General Manager
Michael Shugrue has worked in the Film & Television Industry for the past 35 plus years.
He is a 4th generation Filmmaker & Technician. He has owned and managed rental companies all over North America. He has won 2 Emmy awards for his Technical and Camera work, and received a Emmy Award recognition for the TV Series βThe West Wing.β
He has directed and produced live motor-sports and reality productions around the world.

Mari Acevedo
Vice President & Director of Strategic Sales
Mari Acevedo has 27 years of system integration experience with broadcast camera packages.
Mari started her career in Hollywood with Walt Davis Enterprises/Steadi Systems. She later served at Hoffman Video Systems as Broadcast Equipment Account Rep for system integration projects. As the industry evolved, Mari formed her own company Hi-Def Inc to serve international clients in Digital Cinema and Broadcast A/V.
Mari is versed in all digital camera systems, multiplex systems, LED lighting and all support gear.
Quality Service & Gear
We are committed to provide exceptional service and gear ready-to-use.
Birns & Sawyer’s Office & Studio Staff

Paula Hill
Accountant & Bookkeeper