About Vancouver
Vancouver has long been a significant city in the Pacific Northwest, showcasing melting-pot cultures, diverse landscapes, and vibrant nightlife. The Couve houses well-known shopping destinations like Gastown and Granville Island Market and attractions like Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. These are reasons that make the city a popular tourist and filming destination.
Vancouver also has a hospitable film climate and selections of highly-attuned arcade spaces that have much sought-after filming locations. Arcades offer filmmakers a unique backdrop with old-school pinball machines and vintage gaming consoles. They are ideal for productions or video shoots that seek to recreate classic arcade vibes or even create futuristic landscapes.
Netflix’s Altered Carbon, Supernatural, and Riverdale are some productions with scenes filmed at such locations. These spaces provide ample opportunity to capture memorable shots while exploring various genres of filmmaking.
Arcade Options in Vancouver
- Film Equipment Rentals
From cameras and lighting to grips and sound systems, the video production process requires several pieces of equipment. The film equipment rental companies in Vancouver supply filmmakers with the necessary gear at a fraction of the cost it would take to purchase them outrightly.
- Post Production Services
Several film studios and independent editors in Vancouver offer post-production services. Whether you want a professional to perform a rough cut of your recorded footage or color-grade the material, you can find a professional who can assist.
- Catering
When working on an on-location video shoot at an arcade space, it is courteous to offer your team food. Catering companies in Vancouver deliver quality food and beverages customized for each occasion.
Arcade Vendors in Vancouver
- Matrix Production Services
As a family-run business with years of experience in the Film and TV Industry, Matrix Production Services provides exceptional customer service and quality results. From staging necessities like tents and tarps, tables and chairs, wardrobe, flagging tape, and bubble wrap to items for traffic and safety, heating and cooling, and expendables, whatever you require for your production is available at Matrix. Their knowledgeable team does all the legwork for you so that everything you need arrives at your location on time.
- GFZ Group
Operating out of offices in British Columbia, Canada, GFZ Group is a network renowned for its innovative technologies, creative strategies, and premium leads in the film, television, gaming, and advertisement sectors. With expertise in various post-production services, the company has a pool of over 3000 global artists who provide the talent to execute any job to its fullest potential.
- 852 Kitchen
852 Kitchen provides an authentic taste of Hong Kong right to your doorstep. Established in 2020 by a passionate group of Hong-Kongers, this company is dedicated to introducing its traditional Cantonese Dim Sum to food lovers across the continent. Its chefs bring their expertise and experience in preparing high-quality dishes. 852 Kitchen only uses freshly prepared ingredients from its licensed commercial kitchen in Vancouver, BC.
Pros and Cons of Arcade Spaces in Vancouver
If you are searching for a setting to produce an exhilarating video, arcade spaces in Vancouver are worth considering. However, it is essential to understand the benefits and drawbacks of using these kinds of filming locations before making your decision.
Advantages
- Bright lights and sounds from an arcade add energy and excitement to any photo or video shoot.
- Arcade spaces provide lots of room for photographers or filmmakers to set up equipment, accommodate large groups, and move freely without worrying about overcrowding.
- Most arcades are located in densely populated areas, making them easily accessible from most parts of the city.
Disadvantages
- Some arcades may be too noisy for a photo shoot or filming session, particularly if you have not locked down the entire space for the project.
- Not all arcades have enough space to accommodate a large crew or some equipment setups.
- Equipment rental fees may be higher due to the limited availability of gaming systems and accessories required for the project.
Tips on How to Organize Arcade Spaces in Vancouver
Getting an arcade space in Vancouver ready for a video or photo shoot can be daunting. However, with the right strategy, you can create a functional and optimal atmosphere for your project.
- Consider the size of the space and determine what type of equipment will be needed. This includes camera and lenses, lighting, and props.
- Come up with a professional shot list outlining equipment, camera angles, and the placement of actors or models during each scene.
- Secure all loose items like wires and cords to prevent them from becoming trip hazards during the shoot.
- Have someone familiar with both safety protocols and the filming laws in Vancouver present at all times.
- Take reference photos or videos of the area before shooting begins so you can accurately replicate any changes made after production has ended.
Famous Locations in Vancouver
- H.R. MacMillan Space Centre
The H.R. Macmillan Space Centre is an attraction nestled within Vanier Park, Kitsilano, 15 minutes away from Downtown Vancouver. Its unmistakable UFO-shaped building fades into the pristine ocean backdrop, giving visitors the feeling of being transported to a retro-futuristic theme park! The center is full of creative and educational exhibits related to space exploration. The observatory and planetarium remain popular attractions for locals and tourists alike, with something fun for everyone.
- Engine 374 Pavilion
Travel through the history books for free by visiting Engine 374 Pavilion and the Vancouver Maritime Museum. Spanning a century of transportation, you'll find the first train to cross Canada from Montreal to B.C., Engine 374, as well as the RCMP Schooner St. Roch that made history by being the second vessel ever to navigate through the treacherous Northwest Passage, and the first one to do it in a west-to-east direction. Both attractions are sure to make your imagination run wild with scenes of adventure and exploration of two vastly different but equally amazing vessels.
- Grouse Mountain
Grouse Mountain is one of the most popular travel attractions in Vancouver and a must-visit destination. From skiing to summer hiking, Grouse Mountain offers something for everyone. Located just 15 minutes north of downtown Vancouver, Grouse Mountain should be at the top of your "to visit" list if you're ever in town. With unparalleled views from the Grouse Mountain Skyride and Peak Chairlift Ride and a range of activities including an Eye of the Wind wind turbine, The Observatory Restaurant, and Altitudes Bistro, there's no shortage of things to explore on Grouse Mountain.