About San Mateo
San Mateo is a city situated in the San Francisco Bay Area of California, known for its vibrant and active community full of diverse people and activities. It's most notably become a hub of content production and video shooting since it offers great scenery, weather, and creative professionals who work to bring out the best in visual storytelling.
Recently, streaming companies like Netflix and YouTube have been producing their own scripted material in the area, showcasing what San Mateo has to offer for psychological thrillers or other stories set along its picturesque coastlines. Outdoor video shooting works especially well around San Mateo due to the amount of natural light available and the area’s spectacular scenery.
No matter which way you look at it, there are plenty of good reasons why San Mateo is the ideal location for your next video shoot.
Video Shoot Options in San Mateo
- Catering
There are many catering companies in San Mateo that can provide food for a video shoot. You have the option of choosing a company specializing in healthy and organic food or one that offers more traditional fare, depending on your preferences.
- Makeup Artists
If you need a makeup artist for your next video shoot in San Mateo, you should have no trouble finding talented pros to help you out. The makeup artists here can provide both natural-looking and glamorous effects, depending on your project needs.
- Videography
If you're looking for a videographer in San Mateo, there are plenty to choose from. You can find someone who offers high-quality services or is more affordable, depending on your budget.
- Equipment
Several equipment rental businesses in San Mateo can supply gear for a film set. These companies have both standard and specialty equipment to meet your project requirements.
- Cleaning Services
A video shoot may need the help of a cleaning service in San Mateo. These businesses can provide basic or specialized cleaning services based on the demands of the filming so you can move through your video shoots as efficiently as possible.
Video Shoot Vendors in San Mateo
- Arguello Catering
Arguello Catering is a full-service catering company that offers a wide variety of food options to fit any budget. In addition to their delicious food, they also offer a liquor license to accommodate their clients. Arguello Catering offers both small and large event options to make sure there’s plenty on the menu for everyone, no matter the size of your film crew.
- Lumitone
Lumitone is a photography and videography company based in the Bay Area and one of the first firms in the region to provide high-definition video and same-day edits. In addition to wedding videography and photography, they also offer photo and video fusion packages. Their friendly and professional team aims to ensure that your event or video shoot is captured perfectly.
- Sparkling & Beyond
While you're busy taking care of your video shoot, let the Sparkling & Beyond cleaning service handle the dirty work. This top residential and commercial cleaning company serves San Mateo and the surrounding areas and offers a variety of services, including residential, short-term rental property, and office cleaning.
Pros and Cons of Video Shoots in San Mateo
If you're planning to shoot a video in San Mateo, there are some key things to take into account. Here's a list of benefits and drawbacks that might assist you with your final decision:
Advantages
- San Mateo offers a variety of stunning scenery and landscapes which can serve as beautiful and unique backdrops for any video shoot.
- With its close proximity to the San Francisco Bay Area, San Mateo is conveniently located for any crew members or talent coming from out of town.
- There are a number of excellent production facilities available in San Mateo, including fully-equipped sound stages, editing suites, and post-production services.
Disadvantages
- One potential downside to filming in San Mateo is the fact that it may be difficult to secure permits or permission to shoot at certain locations due to stringent local laws and regulations.
- During certain times of the year, the weather in San Mateo can be unpredictable, with bouts of fog or sudden rain impacting filming.
- Traffic and parking can be an issue since so many people commute into the city each day, making it important to plan accordingly if you are planning on using any street scenes as part of your shoot.
Tips on How to Organize Video Shoots in San Mateo
Whether you're shooting a music video or a commercial, organizing your locations is key to having a successful shoot. Here are a few tips on how to get started:
- Map it out: Make sure to have a map of the location, so you know where all your equipment needs to be set up. You should also figure out what type of power source you'll need for your lights and other gear, and then make sure it's available at the location before you begin shooting.
- Safety first: Check for any safety hazards or restrictions at the location and take measures to ensure everyone’s safety throughout the shoot.
- Think about the lighting: Consider how much natural light is available at the location and decide whether you need additional lighting fixtures or reflectors. It may also be useful to bring some extra tape, extension cords, etc. in case something unexpected arises during filming.
- Ask first: Ask permission from anyone who owns or uses the space prior to starting your work. This includes neighbors who live nearby as well as people who may be using any part of the space while you are shooting there (e.g., tenants).
- Book services: If necessary, book any additional services that might be required, such as sound technicians or special effects assistants, ahead of time so they can be onsite when needed.
- Get the permits: Make sure all necessary permits have been obtained before filming begins in order to avoid any legal issues later on. This includes both local city permits for filming as well as copyright clearances if music is being used in any way during production.
Famous Locations in San Mateo
- Horseshoe Lake
Horseshoe Lake is one of the most beautiful places to visit in the area. The lake is surrounded by wildflowers, with a variety of orchids blooming around the edge of the water. There are also a few benches nearby where you can sit and enjoy the view. The hiking trails are short enough that they can be completed in an hour or two, making Horseshoe Lake the perfect place for a quick nature hike. The tranquility of Horseshoe Lake makes it an ideal place to relax and enjoy some peace in between video shoots in San Mateo.
- Wunderlich Park
Wunderlich Park is a beautiful natural escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The park is home to redwood forests, open meadows, and towering oaks and madrones. Visitors can explore miles of hiking trails, take in stunning views of the valley below, and enjoy the peace of nature. In addition to its natural beauty, Wunderlich Park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, coyotes, owls, and bobcats. With so much to see and do, Wunderlich Park is a perfect place to spend a day surrounded by nature.
- Sanchez Adobe
Sanchez Adobe is a unique historical site that offers visitors a glimpse into the past. The adobe residence, which dates back to the mid-1800s, has been restored and furnished with period pieces. In addition, the site contains archaeological evidence of the Mission Dolores Outpost. This provides visitors with an opportunity to learn about the history of the area and see how life was different in the past. The Sanchez Adobe is a great way to spend an afternoon for those interested in learning about California’s rich history.