About Burbank
Burbank is a city located 12 miles northwest of downtown Los Angeles. The population, according to the 2020 census, was 107,000. The history of Burbank follows that of cities and regions in Southern California. There were conflicts between Spain and Mexico for control and land grants with ranchers and farmers being the benefactors.
The entertainment industry outgrew Hollywood by the early 1920s. Burbank had an established manufacturing base at the time of the film industry’s overflow. Hollywood is the iconic symbol of the entertainment sector, but Burbank became the premier location for production services. The big-name studios, like Disney, Nickelodeon, and Warner Bros, are located in Burbank.
Today, Burbank has the second-largest Class A office space inventory in the valley at the highest lease rates. It is estimated that only one-quarter of the employed population works in Burbank. The venues offered for a film production range from a fully built-out sound stage with green screen technology to open spans you can furnish and equip as needed. For those looking to rent film studio spaces for a few hours, Burbank has it all. You'll find a variety of options that are perfect for TV series, web series, and photo shoot options.
Film Studio Space Options in Burbank
Finding film studio spaces in Burbank is easy. It can be difficult to choose from so many great venues. To narrow it down, make a list of your needs, from the size of the space to the amenities it offers. Do not forget to consider the number of local experts who can help you with your space.
Studio Equipment Rental
The open, free-span studio spaces are plentiful in Burbank. An essential contractor will be for the design and engineering of the a/v and lighting systems. These professionals will need to meet with the producers to become familiar with the set and the scope of the project to plan and install the appropriate equipment. Training and support for the grips will also be necessary to organize and maintain the equipment during filming.
Catering
The catering to a film studio is a defined service style. A caterer specializing in food service to a film set knows that the service style needs to be professional and flexible. Those working on a set want to perform their duties and get through a shoot without an intrusive service style. The catering is both important and necessary but, of all the vendors present on the set, the caterers should be the vendor needing the least direction.
Permitting
The film ordinance, in effect, is consistent with the suggested form provided by the California Film Commission. However, the ordinance retains the city’s authority to require a permit for all filming, with very limited exceptions for certified sound stages. A permit is required for film projects by students and non-profit organizations, but the permit fee may be waived or reduced.
Film Studio Space Companies in Burbank
The choices of local companies based in Burbank providing ancillary services are abundant. Given that the entertainment industry is a major economic driver, it stands to reason that you can find film studios in Burbank that can help with film projects, music videos, and photo shoots.
Illuminar
This Glendale-based equipment company provides solution-based services for the design and equipment rentals for lighting and production supplies customized for the shoot. The gear for rent and the supplies for purchase cover both the specifications for the design and the expendables for using the gear. Illuminar has assembled curated packages for quick shoots, mobile projects, and long-term schedules with a higher demand for equipment use.
Boyz in the Kitchen
Established in 1993, the proprietor chefs of Boyz in the Kitchen were “discovered” when serving the studio executives at the Toluca Lake Tennis Club. The clientele of Boyz in the Kitchen has expanded its base in the valley and retained its connections with the film industry. Catering to a film set is a top-listed venue when describing the company’s experience. The talent in the staff, in addition to the professional chefs, includes chefs-in-training, pastry chefs, experienced servers, and bartenders.
Sunbelt Rentals
Additional services may be needed to complement the equipment rental. There may be a need for the rental of materials for the construction of scaffolding and elevated work surfaces. The professionals within the Sunbelt staff can advise of any special needs for material handling. The electrical power to the studio space may not be sufficient to handle the extra loads of film and lighting supplies.
Pros and Cons of Film Studio Spaces in Burbank
Although a Burbank film studio space may seem perfect, every city has its pros and cons. From the wonderful climate to the high cost of living, it is essential that you weigh your options carefully before making any permanent plans.
Advantages
Industry Hub
Burbank is known as the "Media Capital of the World," housing major studios like Warner Bros., Disney, and Universal. This provides easy access to top-tier industry resources.
Expertise and Networking
Burbank's concentration of talent and professionals creates ample networking opportunities and access to experienced crew members.
High-Quality Facilities
Burbank offers state-of-the-art studio spaces with the latest technology and equipment, ensuring high-quality production.
Variety of Spaces
From large sound stages to smaller, intimate studios, Burbank offers a variety of spaces to suit different production needs.
Disadvantages
High Costs
Studio rentals in Burbank can be expensive due to the high demand and premium location.
Permitting and Regulations
Navigating the permitting process and adhering to local regulations can be time-consuming and complex.
Traffic and Accessibility
Traffic congestion in the Greater Los Angeles area can cause delays and logistical challenges for cast and crew.
Competition for Space
High demand means that studio spaces can be booked out well in advance, requiring early planning and potentially limiting availability.
Famous Locations in Burbank
Scavenger Hunt in Burbank
Using an app as the virtual tour guide, this themed walk is a great way to explore and come to know Burbank. The groups are limited to 10 people to participate in this scavenger hunt, seeking items and completing challenges in competition with other tour groups. The guide will be live, though remote, and the activities will last approximately two hours.
Warner Brothers Hollywood Classic Tours
This studio tour differed from the other studio tours as it educates the participants on Hollywood’s golden years from the industry’s inception through 1970. Touring the iconic backlot will introduce the locations of classic movies and television shows, the dressing rooms of the stars, and the exhibitions of costumes and props.
Burbank Food Scene
Burbank is known as Southern California’s foodie scene. The nationally known non-chain restaurants are the local favorites, as are the mom-and-pop cafes in the neighborhoods. The areas downtown, Magnolia Park, and the Media District are the main corridors of the foodie scene. You will find everything from street vendors to food trucks and fancy dining establishments.
