About Santa Fa
The capital of New Mexico, Santa Fe, is also one of America’s most art-focused cities. While it lacks the nightlife and pubs of major cities like New York and Los Angeles, it makes up for that with a rich and diverse culture. Santa Fe’s full name is La Villa Real de la Santa Fe de San Francisco de Asis, the longest full name for any place in the United States.
Despite an early presence of European settlers, the area remained controlled by Mexico and Spain until 1824 when Mexico got its independence. The United States first tried to claim the land of Santa Fe when Texas succeeded from Mexico in 1836.
It wasn’t until 1846 when America declared war on Mexico that nearly two thousand soldiers were sent to seize the land. Two years later the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo formalized U.S. ownership of Santa Fe.
If you enjoy hot summers in the 90s and cold winters in the 20s, you will love the climate of Santa Fe. The average snowfall here is between four and five inches so if you come during the winter, pack your snow boots. Either way, a Santa Fe film shoot location will be easy to find.
Film Shoot Location Options in Santa Fe
Santa Fe offers unique spaces for your next film shoot location, and there are several options at your disposal in the city. Take your time choosing a film shoot location in Santa Fe and consider hiring some of the local experts to help.
- Equipment
Your Santa Fe film shoot location will require proper equipment to get everything running. If you don’t have your own camera and lighting gear, you can hire an experienced team or rent equipment to use on your own.
- Refreshments
Given the average sunny weather in the city, it might be a good idea to provide some kind of refreshments for your Santa Fe film shoot location. There are a number of catering services that can create a custom menu for your needs.
- Transportation
The traffic and crowds aren’t as bad in Santa Fe as they are in other big cities, but you still have to consider how you will get around during your visit. One of the best options is to go with a private company, as they can provide unmatched luxury services.
Film Shoot Location Companies in Santa Fe
Whatever you need for your Santa Fe film shoot location you will be able to find either in or nearby the city. But don’t do it all on your own. Enlist some of the local companies to help you with what you need.
- Santa Fe Audio Visual Supplier
Nearly all of your filming equipment needs can be met at Santa Fe Audio Visual Supplier. You can rent sound systems, microphones, lighting setups, and more. If you need staging, they have that too. You can even hire some staff to man the equipment if you need them.
- Groome Transportation
Formerly known as Sandia Shuttle, Groome Transportation can provide transportation options for your Santa Fe film shoot location. If you need a ride from Santa Fe Albuquerque International Airport, you can turn to their shuttle services or hire a car and driver to take you on a sightseeing tour of the city.
- Whole Hog Café
If you want catering options that will provide ribs, brisket, and BBQ at your film shoot location, then Whole Hog Café is one of the best options in Santa Fe. They craft award-winning cuisine that would go over well at any event. In addition, Whole Hog Café will deliver your food, set everything up, serve the meal, and clean up afterward.
Pros and Cons of Film Shoot Locations in Santa Fe
No matter what city you choose for your film shoot location, it will come with pros and cons that you should consider. Just like any place in the world, Santa Fe has good and bad sides. Make sure you know what they are before finalizing any plans for your Santa Fe film shoot location.
Advantages
- Sunny weather
A major advantage of Sante Fe, New Mexico is the amount of sunny weather the city experiences. Around 70% of the year is clear and warm, leaving plenty of time to enjoy all of the outdoor offerings in Santa Fe.
- Culture
The culture you will find in Santa Fe is diverse and leads to a lot of the charm the city is loved for. While 47% of the population is either Latino or Hispanic, there is also a lot of influence from local Native populations.
- Art and art festivals
Santa Fe is one of the most art-centered cities in America, and it holds several festivals throughout the year. Several artists have spent time in and around Santa Fe, including Georgia O’Keeffe.
Disadvantages
- Dust
One thing you will experience a lot of in Santa Fe, in addition to the sand of the desert, is a lot of dust. The windy nature of the city means that dust will easily get all over your house, car, and clothes.
- No nightlife
While a lot of big cities are known for having vibrant nightlife scenes, Santa Fe is not one of them. If you’re planning to enjoy any bars or clubs you may have to make a trip to Albuquerque.
- Insect problems
The warm weather in Santa Fe through most of the year also contributes to a high population of insects. Like most temperate climates, the heat breeds mosquitoes, ticks, and other annoying bugs.
Famous Locations in Santa Fe
- Canyon Road
Anyone who loves art and finds themselves in Santa Fe, New Mexico should stop by Canyon Road. Once a trade route for original settlers, it now holds over a hundred artist studios. Paintings, jewelry, sculptures, and other kinds of art can be purchased on Canyon Road as well.
- Santa Fe Opera House
The Santa Fe Opera House is the center for performing arts in the city. The Opera House presents classic productions, as well as modern ones. One of the most-known traditions before shows is called tailgating when theater guests hang out in the parking lot to eat food.
- Ski Santa Fe
Not many people see Santa Fe as a ski destination, but there are several slopes to enjoy if visiting Santa Fe during the winter. Located only a few miles from downtown is Ski Santa Fe, which can be accessed by public bus routes. The resort has more than 600 acres of snowy landscape, and over 80 trails to explore.