About New York
New York is one of the world's most iconic and vibrant cities, situated on the Atlantic Coast of the United States. The town’s tumultuous history includes Dutch settlement in the 1600s, British control in the 1700s, and a significant role during the American Revolution and Civil War. It is a city of towering skyscrapers, diverse cultures, and a hub for industry, finance, art, amusement, and culture. New York also boasts an impressive 843-mile subway system, the largest in North America, and carries over 5 million riders daily. While it may not be visible at first glance, more than 800 languages are spoken throughout its five boroughs, making this city one of the most multilingual places on Earth.
This spot is ideal for filming throughout the year due to its humid subtropical climate and four seasons. The countryside is beautiful and full of greenery, and the mountains and waterfalls bestow picturesque settings for any production. The area is also known for its historical sites, including colonial farms and estates that dispense great surroundings for recreations or period films. All in all, filming at country venues in the Big Apple may be cost-effective and aesthetically pleasing.
Country Filming Options in New York
- Lighting
Brightness is crucial to setting the ambiance and atmosphere for any filming location. So, when working in a country venue, you want to ensure the lighting complements your vision for the shoot. Good lighting can bring out the beauty of nature in the setting and confirm that your footage looks its best. Consider what type of gleaming would work best for your production, whether natural sunlight or artificial light fixtures.
- Production Company
Such a business is essential when filming in a country venue, as it will provide all the necessary resources and personnel to make your vision come alive on screen. The right company may assist in producing an environment conducive to generating high-quality footage while keeping within budget. The masters should also have extensive experience with outdoor shooting and know how to work with natural elements like wind and rain.
- Flower Design
Flower design helps set the overall vibe of a location, so if you’re gathering to create a romantic outdoor scene or something more whimsical, incorporating plants into your shooting plan is a great way to add detail and color. Working with an experienced floral designer, who knows seasonal blooms and local flora, helps fabricate beautiful arrangements that will be gorgeous for any style shoot, from country chic to rustic romance.
Country Filming Vendors in New York
- Sophia's Costumes Rentals
For thirty-five years, Sophias has been a hub for vintage clothing and antique collectors alike. Although small, they boast an impressive collection of authentic vintage pieces dating from the 1890s to the 1990s. The team takes pride in bestowing customers with exceptional product quality and outstanding customer service. They are ideal for searching for a genuine 70s leisure suit or a fabulous 1930s smoking robe for any country filming. So, not only do they offer an extensive inventory of vintage clothing, but they also have a large selection of unique costumes for rent or sale.
- Indigo Productions
With talented writers, directors, producers, and cinematographers, Indigo Productions has tackled projects of all shapes and sizes, from small studio interviews to large-scale multi-camera commercial shoots and filming in various locations like country venues, rustic spaces, and more. They specialize in video production and editing, live streaming, motion graphics, 3D animation, time-lapse videos, social media videos, and testimonials.
- Harry J Design
The team of professional floral designers at Harry J Design offers a unique range of services perfect for adding a special touch to any event or filming. From weddings, private events, corporate occasions, and country and rustic filming, they can help create the perfect atmosphere with their intricate and stunning flower arrangements.
Pros and Cons of Country Filming Venues in New York
Filming at country venues in New York has numerous advantages and disadvantages. Below is a list of the significant features.
Advantages
- Cost savings: Filming at a rural or remote location may often mean significant cost savings compared to shooting in more popular areas. This is due to lower rental fees, fewer permits required, and lack of competition when booking crew and equipment.
- Accessibility: Bucolic locations tend to have better access roads than more urbanized areas, meaning less disruption for cast and crew during travel times.
- Variety of unique backdrops: Such spots allow filmmakers to capture distinctive scenery like farms, rolling hills, and charming landscapes that are not always available in city settings.
Disadvantages
- Limited accommodation options: As many rural venues are far from cities and towns, restricted accommodation options may be available for cast and crew members traveling outside the area.
- Difficulty finding extras or local talent: If a production requires extras or local talent who aren’t already within the area, this can add complexity, as it may need hiring for offsite casting calls or additional travel expenses.
- Isolation from resources: While rural spots may present certain advantages, such as cost savings, they also come with the disadvantage that they can be located far away from required resources, such as medical facilities or any additional production supplies needed on set.
Tips on How to Organize Country Filming Venues in New York
Arranging a filming project at country venues in New York can be daunting. There are many elements to consider, and to help make this process easier, here are some great tips.
- Investigate the venue: Before starting your shoot, carefully analyze the place. Search for any possible hazards or obstacles that could disrupt filming. Check for uneven ground, exposed wires, or other safety risks.
- Liaise with property owners: If you plan on filming on someone else’s property, you must inform them of your plans beforehand. Not only will this help assure that you have permission, but it can also assist in resolving any potential conflicts or issues before they arise.
- Work with locals: Contemplate working with regional suppliers who understand the landscape and know what works best for various locations within the state. From experienced cinematographers to professional production firms, having professionals on set may establish a successful shoot.
Famous Locations in New York
- Blockhouse No. 1
Blockhouse No. 1 stands proudly atop the North Woods of Central Park. A historical monument that dispenses a brief respite from the hustle and bustle of modern Manhattan. This fort, built during the War of 1812, is the oldest structure within the park and remains the only fortification from a series of defenses that once spanned Harlem Heights. Directed by General Joseph Gardner Swift, it was constructed hastily. But today, it is a testament to a different era in New York City's history. For those seeking a moment of reflection amidst the city's chaos, Blockhouse No. 1 is a must-see destination.
- Park Avenue
A stroll down Park Avenue is necessary for anyone who appreciates masterful architecture. As you walk, be prepared for your jaw to drop in awe at the towering skyscrapers that line the street. Starting your journey from outside Union Square, you can take in structures with rich histories, like the Empire State Building and Chrysler Building. The avenue leads directly to the Grand Central Terminal, a stunning Beaux-Arts building used for commuter rail. Inside the terminal's Main Concourse, the famous 4-faced opal clock is a beloved meeting place for New Yorkers. Keep your camera ready as you explore and discover other engineering marvels along the road.
- Belmont Lake State Park
Established in 1926, the setting has a rich history that dates back to August Belmont's equestrian ventures. However, when Robert Moses chose this area to initiate the regional headquarters for all state parks on Long Island in 1935, it became a hub for the public. Today, households flock to this picturesque destination for outdoor gatherings, picnics, and friendly sports competitions. And with the headquarters for the New York State Park Police located onsite, visitors can rest easy knowing that they are in safe hands.