About Film Shoots
From conceptualizing an idea, penning down an award-winning script, to assembling the best pre-production, production, and post-production teams; it's fair to say, a lot goes into the process of putting together a film shoot.
Planning an on-location film production is often likened to the process of organizing a circus. Both bring together a collection of skilled people and props to stage a grand performance against the backdrop of an ideal setting. However, film shoots vary in nature, and the need for specific locations, be it a green screen room, vintage vehicle, or a mid-century abode, equally varies.
Take care of one of the biggest problems by considering selections of suitable film shoot locations across various cities. Once you’ve identified ideal film shoot spaces, all that's left is to turn up with your team on the scheduled day equipped with what’s needed to call “action.”
The Best Film Shoot Venues
Film shoot locations essentially act as canvases when working on a video project. More than likely, you'll need at least two or more venues to bring your project to life. In that case, here are some cinematic locations worth exploring.
- Empty Parking Structures
With a creative project lined up, a parking structure provides a large enough space for your scheduled activities. Whether it's a dance shoot, a video production scene that involves a large number of extras, or perhaps you want to build a specialized set from scratch; an empty parking lot serves as the perfect blank slate.
- Vintage Cars
Whether your production is based on a historic setting or you simply want a cinematic boost; you can't go wrong having a vintage car on set. It doubles a prop that can dress up an otherwise empty space particularly when filming music videos. Consider renting an eye-catching 1982 Pink Corvette for your scheduled creative project.
- Loft Studios
A loft studio provides high ceilings, plenty of light, and lots of space which are all aspects needed for a good film shoot. These spaces also work as blank canvases and with the help of props and some set building, you can convert a loft studio into your desired film location.
- Unfurnished Homes
Renting a home for a film shoot gives you access to several filming locations rolled up in one. You’ll come across selections of stunning houses varying in style ranging from mid-century, minimalistic, Old Hollywood, and super luxurious. A majority feature minimal furniture and furnishings allowing you to dress them up as needed.
- Fully-Furnished Homes
Using a fully-furnished home as a film shoot space saves you the hassle of dressing it up yourself which can often turn out to be a costly affair. These residences are tastefully furnished giving them a homey feel and with the vast choices available, you'll undoubtedly find one that works for your production.
What to Look for in Film Shoot Spaces
A film shoot brings together producers, directors, camera operators, talent, and several other professionals. Regardless of the scale, you'll always need a spacious location to accommodate everyone as well as the filming equipment. Several more considerations should guide the film shoot space selection process.
- Capacity
Naturally, you'll need a spacious video shoot location, even if you are working on a small indie project. Film equipment like lights can easily heat up a space and make things uncomfortable for everyone. Account for the crew, cast, equipment, and props when scouring around for suitable film locations.
- Accessibility
Given that a film shoot includes a team of professionals and equipment; it's wise to choose an easily accessible location. It reduces your overall budget when it comes to transportation, saves you from hauling equipment around, and you'll avoid wasting time when moving between locations.
- Amenities
Certain amenities like access to functioning power outlets and heating/cooling systems are perhaps non-negotiable when organizing a film shoot. Other perks like parking, WiFi, and access to kitchen facilities are an added plus. Again, it depends on your preference but most locations don’t disappoint because they come bundled with several helpful amenities.
- Parking
Going back to the equipment factor, depending on the nature of your film project you might need to set up a mobile studio somewhere. Having access to a dedicated parking lot provides extra space to convert into yet another production space, set up caravans for the cast/crew, and simply park the vehicles providing transportation.
- Ambiance
Even an empty space exudes a certain charm and you want to go for a film shoot space that aligns with the overall theme of your project. It reduces the work that goes into converting the space for your intended purpose and also lowers your props budget if the location includes furnishings.
Film Shoot Inspiration
A film shoot provides an opportunity for a team of professionals to showcase their talents in a creative way. You also want to impress the team working on the project off the bat, and it starts with selecting the best film shoot spaces.
- Dance Shoots on Roof Tops
A rooftop provides the perfect vantage point to film establishing shots, music videos, brawl scenes, dance shoots, and interviews. It equally works for chase scenes, think of the "Die Hard" sequences, or romantic settings.
- Music Videos in Wine Cellars or Basements
Wine cellars and basements are the perfect spaces to film chilling thriller or horror scenes. It doesn't hurt if the cellar/basement is accessed via a stairway because it provides yet another set to use at a single venue.
- Productions in Vintage Bathrooms
Some restored locations have Art Deco or vintage-inspired bathrooms that would serve as great sets for historical scenes. With proper set dressing, a bathroom location can also work for a music video or horror film scene.
- Video Shoots in Home Offices
A home office is a versatile space that can function as a private investigator's office, business premises, or the principal's office. Generally, any scene requiring an office set-up can work in this space.
- Filming at a Movie Theater
A small theater or home cinema room can provide the perfect setting for a church scene. There are other possibilities to transform the abstract room into varied cinematic film shoot locations, particularly if the pews are movable.