Rates
DPs often own their own camera package, and possibly a lighting package as well. So you have to weigh the cost of paying a little more for a DP with his own gear versus less for a DP without gear. You will find that an experienced DP with his own gear can bring many "extras" to the shoot (for free) that you would normally have to pay for...monitors, cables, generators, dollys, etc. So you win in the long run...especially when you go over time and over budget...when you hire a DP with gear. I am a "union" DP, and my rate has gone from "free" to (whatever) depending on the project. Most of my shoots have been non-union, without a contract. Yes, "we" are out there. Just ask around. $200 a day can get you a DP without gear in many circumstances, so any "extras" beyond that from a DP would be quite a bonus. But ask the DP for a demo reel of what he has done...especially lighting. You are looking for QUALITY work and not just price.