About London
London has been used as a video shoot location and a film setting for decades. Filming is a significant part of the London culture, hosting big movie titles such as Bridget Jones's Diary, A Clockwork Orange and Harry Potter. Such inspiration lies in the historic buildings and hidden corridors here in London.
On top of these hidden movie settings in the big city, you can also discover the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden, Central London. The Opera House is home to the Royal Opera, the Royal Ballet and the famous Royal Orchestra.
While finding a video shoot location, you may find yourself looking for a series of vendors to accompany you with your project. Since London is no stranger to the art of filmmaking, music and productions, you'll find here a diverse number of options ready to be checked out.
Video Shoot Options in London
Planning a video shoot entails listing down the factors that you'll need to consider to make it successful, from prop rentals to post-production services.
- Equipment
While finding the perfect video shoot location, you'll need to list down all of the equipment that is necessary for the project, such as video cameras, tripods, lighting, reflectors, lenses and more. Here in London, some studios or venues already offer equipment along with the space, so that's one less thing to worry about. But if you’ve found a space that does not provide this extra, you may hire it from plenty of shops that offer equipment rental around the city.
- Actor/Actress
Actors and actresses come in different ages, races, genders, sizes and specialisations. From lead actors and extras to dancers and performers, you won't run out of professional actors who'll fit the purpose of your shoot.
- Furniture or Prop Rental
During your video shoot, you may need some props to enhance the scene or complete the set-up you're going after. Due to London's prestigious filming culture, prop and furniture rental companies abound in the city. Whatever item you'll need, they'll surely have it!
- Editor
After you finish shooting your video, editing comes in. If you are not equipped for this job, there are many freelance editors all over London who can lend their specialised skills for your video project. Some editors specialise in editing for TV and film, while some excel in music videos and commercials. Because of the concentrated talent pool in the city, you'll surely find someone who does it all.
Video Shoot Companies in London
- Cameraworks
Cameraworks is a digital cinematography and TV equipment rental company. They have a diverse niche of experience with different projects in advertising, broadcasting, PR agencies, etc. They offer cameras, lenses, audio, lighting and accessories such as tripods, batteries, matteboxes and filters for your video shoot needs.
- London Prop Hire
Founded by Anthony Wright, London Prop Hire has years of experience in the antique and design industry. London Prop Hire holds a wide variety of 20th-century props, including luggage, lighting, phones, mannequins, clocks, books, miscellaneous items and more!
- Mladens Isakovs
Mladens Isakovs is a freelance videographer and editor based in London. He has worked all over Europe and London, with many years of experience with digital, electronic and film cameras. His services include videography and editing, and he specialises in music videos, product videos and short films.
Pros and Cons of Video Shoots in London
Pros
- Suppliers and film crew
Since London is a major city and a common place for filmmaking, there are many film-related shops and services that can easily be found here. From cameras, lighting equipment and prop rentals, to film crew and actors for hire, you'll have bountiful options to choose from. Many people can attest to the professional and joyful attitude that film crews in London usually exude.
- Inspiration
There are plenty of reasons why directors love to film in London, and one of them is inspiration. The city of London is steeped in history and is home to many iconic film locations and historical landmarks. Being surrounded by well-known places that have already seen their fair share of filming makes shooting in the city exciting and inspiring.
- Financial incentives
Did you know that the city of London pays filmmakers tax incentives if their skills are unique and can't be found anywhere in the world? London also refunds the production company a percentage of the production budget if the film has contributed a significant revenue to the city.
- Places to explore and things to do
Outside filming, you'll have the opportunity to explore the city's museums, bars, restaurants, galleries, cinemas, parks and other historical places.
Cons
- Car traffic
Part of the filming process is travelling from one location to another, especially if it's a large project. You'll need to plan your travel carefully since there's a high chance you'll encounter some delays due to heavy traffic.
- Foot traffic
If you're filming in the city centre or a popular bar or restaurant that sees a lot of foot traffic, you'll need to time your filming so that you don't disrupt the people's activities.
- Expensive
It is common knowledge that London is one of the most expensive cities in the world. If you're only starting in filmmaking, you'll need to save a lot of money to afford a venue, equipment and other services.
Famous Video Shoot Locations in London
- Vinters Studios
Vinters Studios is located in South London. Its studio spaces can be utilised for various purposes such as filming, photography, rehearsals, audio recording and workshops. In total, there are two studios and a courtyard you can rent out. Vinters' spaces come with optional staging services and equipment hire.
- Camberwell Film Studios
Known as London’s most flexible filming space, Camberwell Studios has hosted over 3,500 productions since 2009. The studio building offers in-house catering, free parking, lighting services, a film crew, cameras and a specialist kit hire.
- Modern Apartment
This modern apartment is located in Central London. With transportation options nearby, it’s very accessible from any place in the city. The space has plenty of natural light and offers free Wi-Fi and private parking for one car. The apartment includes a modern bathroom, breakfast nook, bright kitchen and an open floor plan. There are only five attendees allowed in the studio at a time, making it ideal for smaller film projects.