10 Amazing Tips for Shooting Video in New York City
New York City is the epicenter of culture and history for the U.S. It’s no wonder film crews come to the city to experience the wonder of the five boroughs and to capture footage. Many major corporations are located within NYC and with a population of over 1.6M there is literally a little bit of every type of culture you can imagine in the Big Apple. If you’re headed to NYC, follow these 10 amazing tips for shooting video in New York City to get started.
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#10. – Map Your Route
Planning is everything when you visit NYC. There is plenty to see and do, lots of b-roll opportunity, but you’ll want to map your route. Driving in the city is tough, and it can take hours to get just a few blocks downtown. Just be prepared.
#9. — Bring Help
You don’t want to shoot solo in the Big Apple. Make sure that you at least have a friend or crew mate with you. This way you can deal with any challenges associated with parking and navigating the city.
#8. — Insurance is Important
If you’re filming in NYC make sure that you have additional insurance to protect you as many property management companies will require it. Check with the building where your shooting to find out if a Certificate of Insurance is required.
#7. — Street Shoots are Tough
But not impossible! If you’re shooting the streets of New York City, be prepared to work around the noise that radiates through the city day and night. Consider low or high camera angles to get the most out of the surroundings.
#6. — Sign the Dotted Line
When you’re in New York City, everyone is a star. But, you can’t use footage that includes someone that didn’t sign your shoot waiver. Just make sure you have everyone sign.
#5 .– Go Sight Seeing
Sightseeing in New York City is a must. If you’re not capturing b-roll, consider a visit to the local restaurants. You’ll love the pizza and various other delights such as New York Bagels. Every borough has a splendid flavor that you must try.
#4. — Ask for a Press Plate
The New York Press Plate is a license plate for your film crew that will make your time in the city easier. A press plate can save you substantially in terms of unloading and loading as well as on parking.
#3. — Don’t Get Shut Down
Are you coming to New York to shoot an interview? Make sure you have the Certificate of Insurance planned out. Many buildings will not allow entrance if you do not have proper insurance. Unfortunately, a schedule or known interview is not always enough. Be prepared.
#2. — Use Google Street View
Figuring out how to get into the buildings of New York can be tough. If you use Google Street view you can get an ideal representation of the freight entrance which is used by film crews to enter. It’s also a smart idea to be prepared to tip the freight operator so that you get your gear in a timely manner.
#1. – Film Permitting
New York City film permitting is handled by the Mayor’s Office of Media and Entertainment. A production that is larger than a two person crew will require a film permit. As will any outdoor production that includes a tripod. Be prepared to get the film permit, it’s free.
Ready to hire a film crew to help you capture footage in New York? Give Beverly Boy Productions a call at 646-448-8787.