About Altadena
The unincorporated city of Altadena, California can be found in Los Angeles County. It’s around fourteen miles away from downtown LA, situated north of Pasadena. The population, as of 2010, was just over 40,000 residents.
The area was originally settled in the early 1860s, and its vital water sources helped develop irrigation systems for nearby regions. Some of the early farms built in Altadena are still standing today, even as the community continues to develop. The city is full of attractions that rival those found in nearby LA and Pasadena.
A Town Council works to govern Altadena while the Chamber of Commerce oversees all city and business expansion. The city is home to a number of growing businesses, including entertainment venues, hotels, and restaurants.
There is a diverse range of options when it comes to eating, with several ethnic cuisines available around the city. Altadena is a vibrant community that continues growing every year, and it may just be the filming location you’re after.
Filming Options in Altadena
Altadena itself is full of filming options that are at your disposal. The city is home to creative workers and companies with years of experience. In addition, nearby Los Angeles also has plenty of options you can consider.
- Cameras
Cameras are important no matter what you are filming in Altadena. If you don’t have your own equipment, you can rent it, or hire an entire production company. It will depend on what kind of work you have to do, and what you already have to work with.
- Transportation
Your Altadena filming space could likely benefit from some kind of private transportation company. Getting around Los Angeles County is a hassle, but experienced companies can take away some of the headaches.
- Catering
Any Altadena filming location would be enhanced by catering services. There are plenty of options to choose from and can show your team how much you appreciate their work. With all of the restaurants in the city, you have plenty of ethnic food options as well.
- Lighting
You will need proper lighting when filming in Altadena, and there are several options to choose from in the entirety of Los Angeles County. There are businesses with industry-standard gear and years of experience.
Filming Companies in Altadena
You will find several companies in or near Altadena that can provide any filming service you might need.
- Express Lighting & Grip
Express Lighting & Grip in Pasadena, California can provide the necessary equipment for a filming space in Altadena. You can rent three separate packages, each of which includes a truck, that you will be able to use for an entire day.
- Pasadena Limousine Service
Even though this company is located in Pasadena, you can use them when filming in Altadena. Pasadena Limousine Service offers top-notch, yet budget-friendly, private chauffeuring. The fleet of vehicles is vast with the best and newest limos, black cars, and party buses to choose from.
- The Tropic Truck
If you want to provide catering services while filming in Altadena, Tropic Truck is one of the top options. This food truck will bring specialized seafood chefs right to your event. It is always nice to have an instant food source at your filming location since everyone has a different schedule.
Pros and Cons of Filming in Altadena
Altadena, California will have pros and cons you should consider before making final decisions about filming. Every city will have good and bad sides that are sure to affect your visit.
Advantages
- Beaches
If you’re visiting Southern California to enjoy the sandy beaches, then Altadena is a must-see city. There are several beautiful beaches to visit in the city such as Brookside Park, Secret Stairs, and Inspiration Point. In addition, Los Angeles and its array of beaches are just minutes away.
- Entertainment
There is plenty of entertainment to be enjoyed when you find yourself filming in Altadena. In addition to iconic attractions like Universal Studios, Dodger Stadium, and the Staple Center, there are dozens of clubs and bars to support a vibrant nightlife. No matter what you like to do, there will be something fun to enjoy in Altadena.
- Pleasant weather
Altadena, and most of Southern California, is known for having pleasant weather throughout most of the year. There are times in the middle of the summer that temperatures can hit the high 90s, but it isn’t common. In the winter, the weather doesn’t typically get bad enough to warrant more than a light coat.
Disadvantages
- Tourist crowds
The population in Altadena is under 50,000 people, and that number is steadily declining. However, you can expect to see large crowds of tourists during your trip. People flock from all over, throughout much of the year, to see a lot of what Altadena has to offer. This is definitely something to plan for, as it can affect wait and commute times.
- Costly
You can expect things to be costly when you are in Altadena, California. There are definitely budget-friendly options throughout the area, but many restaurants, hotels, and attractions have high price tags. The higher expenses of this area are something to consider if you plan on filming here.
- Lower air quality
There are air quality issues through much of Los Angeles County, and Altadena is no exception. During the summer months, heat and pollution from traffic can mix to create smog. This decreases the air quality and is sometimes bad enough you have to limit time spent outdoors.
Famous Locations in Altadena
- Universal Studios Hollywood
The next time you are in Altadena, California you can stop by the Universal Studios Hollywood theme park. In addition to famous rides, guests can also visit several restaurants and shops. This amusement park is one of the main attractions in Altadena and sees visitors all year long.
- Staples Center
Any sports fans will want to make sure they stop by the Staples Center the next time they are in town. This stadium is open all year and is home to two National Basketball Association Teams. It has also hosted some of the biggest musical acts and performers in the world.
- Rodeo Drive
Near Altadena, you will find Rodeo Drive, one of the biggest shopping destinations in all of Southern California. You can visit various shops that fit a number of budgets and find nearly anything you could be after. There are also several bars and restaurants along Rodeo Drive.
