About Sag Harbor
Sag Harbor, located in Long Island, NY, is a beautiful maritime village with plenty of character and charm. It features small-town vibes with some higher-end shops and restaurants dotted along the dockside. What makes it so special though is its significance to the film industry.
Film location scouts love Sag Harbor because of its unique beauty and backdrop of nautical views, and what better way to capture a scene in an American drama? Not only has the city been used as a filming location for countless productions but creative content creators are often inspired by its qualities too.
With Easter Productions, Adam Cohen Films, and other personnel situated in the city itself and contributing awesome content to both local businesses as well as further reaching platforms it's no wonder Sag Harbor has become such an important part of the media industry - did you know even J-Lo had one of her production companies based here at one point!
Filming Options in Sag Harbor
- Catering
Sag Harbor offers a variety of catering options to fit any film production budget. Caterers in Sag Harbor may cater to the culinary needs of your film crew. These caterers can ensure that your cast and crew are well-fed and energized, whether you need breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
- Videography
When it comes to videography, Sag Harbor has several experienced professionals who can capture your film’s visual style. No matter if you want grand city shots or subtle harbor footage, these videographers will make sure to include your vision in the final product.
- Staffing
No film production is complete without a great team of staff and crew. Sag Harbor has plenty of experienced professionals who can help with everything from set design and production assistants to grips and electricians.
- Film Production Equipment
Different film production companies in Sag Harbor can provide you with the equipment and services you need for your project. These companies may offer everything from cameras to lighting to sound equipment, among other items.
Filming Vendors in Sag Harbor
- Austin Collins Media
Austin Collins Media is a video/photo service provider that offers an array of services and products, striving to deliver an experience beyond your expectations. Owner Austin Collins is a videographer and photographer from Long Island, New York. He developed a passion for media production in high school and pursued it at the collegiate level, graduating with honors. Since 2010, he has been working professionally in the industry, providing his services to numerous clients and traveling extensively. His work has been featured in magazines, on television shows, and on online platforms.
- Catering by A Small Affair
A Small Affair is a catering company that takes pride in its individualized attention to detail for weddings, large benefits, and fundraisers held on Long Island. Owners John and Nikki are experienced chefs who specialize in providing customers with both amazing food service and top-notch event management. Catering by A Small Affair is dedicated to delivering memorable meals through creative menus, impeccable service, and attention to detail.
- Cherise Loren
Cherise Loren is a talented makeup artist providing professional services in Sag Harbor and NYC. With over a decade of experience in the fashion and beauty industries, Cherise has worked with celebrities including Gwenyth Paltrow, Nicky Hilton, and Priyanka Chopra. She specializes in natural, flawless makeup applications ideal for filming and photo shoot projects.
Pros and Cons of Filming in Sag Harbor
Below are some key benefits and drawbacks to take into account when deciding whether or not to film in Sag Harbor:
Advantages
- The Sag Harbor area provides a unique and picturesque landscape for filmmakers to capture on film.
- Sag Harbor is a historic city with a rich culture and heritage, making it an ideal setting for period pieces or films set in the past.
- The city is located close to New York City, making it easy to get to for the cast and crew.
Disadvantages
- Sag Harbor can be a busy place during the summer months, which may make it difficult to film without disrupting tourists or locals.
- There are not as many casting options as in larger cities.
- Unpredictable weather conditions can often interfere with filming schedules.
Tips on How to Organize Filming in Sag Harbor
Having a well-organized film shoot is key to ensuring that your commercial, music video, or short film goes off without a hitch. Here are a few tips to help you get started:
- Scout ahead of time: Scouting beforehand is essential for any production in Sag Harbor. By doing this, you will get an idea of the lighting conditions and potential challenges that may arise during the shoot. Plus, it’ll save time on set by giving you a better idea of what needs to be done when you arrive at the location.
- Consider sound restrictions: Sound restrictions should be taken into consideration when selecting a film shoot location in Sag Harbor. Avoid residential areas or places close by as they tend to have more restrictive noise policies than other locations.
- Bring appropriate equipment: Depending on the type of shoot that is taking place, having all the necessary equipment with you can make a huge difference in terms of both efficiency and quality. Make sure to bring any props or specialized gear needed for your project so that there are no unexpected delays on set due to missing items.
- Plan for weather contingencies: The weather in Sag Harbor can change quickly and unexpectedly so it’s important to plan accordingly before heading out for production day. Have rain gear available just in case as well as tarps or umbrellas if needed as protection against sun exposure or windy conditions.
- Ensure safety protocols are met: Safety should always come first while shooting in Sag Harbor so make sure all necessary precautions are taken prior to starting production day such as making sure any electrical cords used are properly grounded and avoiding working near power lines or other hazardous materials when possible.
Famous Locations in Sag Harbor
- The Annie Cooper Boyd House
The Annie Cooper Boyd House in Sag Harbor is a must-see for history buffs and art lovers alike. The house was constructed in the late 1700s, and next door lived Annie Cooper Boyd, a conservationist, and artist from the mid-1800s. Out of the 600 pieces she created, many contain local landscapes. Both floors of the house are open to visitors, who can view not only period furniture but also most of Cooper Boyd’s artwork. The collection of clothing and housewares is also fascinating, giving insight into what life was like in the 1800s.
- The Morton National Wildlife Refuge
The Morton National Wildlife Refuge is an excellent location to get exceptional natural film shots. The preserve protects 187 acres of land, with a 1.2-mile trail loop that includes a salt marsh, ponds, a lagoon, and a tiny boardwalk. You may also walk for two miles along the beach.
- The South Fork Natural History Museum and Nature Center
Also known as SOFO, the South Fork Natural History Museum and Nature Center is just a few miles south of Sag Harbor and well worth the trip. The natural area features a butterfly habitat, a trail system, ponds, and dense woodlands. It is a fantastic spot to learn more about the environment, stage some stunning outdoor film shoots, and see some of the surrounding area's animals up close.