Hybrid work environments, coupled with technological advances, have created high demand for AV rental and staging in live event production. In 2024, the AV rental market was estimated at $10.2 billion with an expected CAGR of 7.25%.
For event organizers who don’t normally specialize in AV, rental and staging can be a cost-effective option. However, to ensure high-quality output, it is imperative to choose AV rental equipment that is intuitive to operate and capable of delivering incredible results.
In this edition of The AV Take, we talk to Panasonic Professional Video and Audio Systems Director of Sales, Caroline Niedzwiecki. We discuss the current AV rental and staging landscape, emerging trends, and how Panasonic AV rentals can be used to level up live event production.
Q: AV rental and staging incorporates many different AV tech solutions depending on the needs of a specific event. Can you talk a little about how different AV solutions can be adapted depending on the scale of the live event production?
Niedzwiecki: One thing I’ve learned from working closely with the rental and staging community is that no two events are alike — and that’s exactly why flexibility matters.
PTZ cameras are a favorite among rental teams because they’re compact, easy to deploy, and don’t require a large crew. For more complex productions, studio cameras offer the control and image quality needed to meet broadcast-level expectations. KAIROS ties it all together, giving teams the ability to scale their workflows without adding unnecessary complexity. The community thrives on adaptability, and these tools support that mindset.
Q: Immersive experiences are becoming more and more popular as a way to give users unique, awe-inspiring experiences. How can Panasonic AV solutions be utilized to create immersive opportunities in event staging?
Niedzwiecki: Immersive experiences are becoming the norm, not the exception. I often hear from partners that clients want more than just coverage — they want to be part of the storytelling.
Whether it’s PTZs that can follow speakers or performers smoothly, or studio cameras that bring depth and richness to elevate the visual experience, Panasonic is here helping the community elevate and deliver meaningful moments that resonate with audiences.
Q: One trend being integrated across tech industries is AI. How is AI being integrated with Panasonic tech to create new, innovative solutions for live event production?
Niedzwiecki: AI is starting to make a real impact, especially in how rental and staging teams manage live events. Auto-tracking and Auto-framing reduce the need for manual adjustments, which is a huge help when staffing can be limited.
I see AI as a support system — it’s not replacing people but enhancing what they can do. The live events community is already finding creative ways to use these tools to streamline workflows and improve responsiveness.
Q: How can AI be used to streamline event setup?
Niedzwiecki: Setup time is always a pressure point. For camera management, features like the Visual Preset software for Media Production Suite allow you to create a customized GUI with visual presets in advance, making it quick to load camera preset positions and moves for new and unfamiliar presenters.
For rental teams juggling multiple events, these efficiencies make a big difference. It’s about giving them more time to focus on the creative side of production.
Q: How can AI help organizers when it comes to adjusting AV tech during an event?
Niedzwiecki: Live events are unpredictable, and the ability to adjust on the fly is critical. Our AI-based automation plug-ins can assist with re-framing shots, optimizing exposure, or even switching camera angles based on movement. When paired with KAIROS, these adjustments feel seamless, helping live events teams deliver polished productions even under pressure.
Q: How do the multitude of options Panasonic offers make it easier for organizers to adapt their rental needs to meet their budget without sacrificing quality?
Niedzwiecki: The live events community is incredibly resourceful. They’re often working within tight budgets but are still expected to deliver high-impact results.
PTZs offer a great balance of quality and affordability, and KAIROS allows for modular growth — teams can start small and expand as needed. It’s not about having the biggest setup; it’s about making smart, scalable choices that meet the client’s vision.
Q: Is there anything else you think we should know about AV rental and staging?
Niedzwiecki: What makes this community special is its ability to adapt, innovate, and deliver under pressure. Panasonic’s Camera Systems, KAIROS, and AV Automation solutions aren’t just tools — they’re enablers. They support the creativity, agility, and professionalism that define rental and staging teams.
At the end of the day, it’s about helping people tell their stories, and doing it in a way that feels seamless and impactful.
Learn more about Panasonic’s AV solutions.
