About Austin
Austin consistently receives the stamp of approval on lists ranking the nation's top cities. It's considered a great place to live, get your tech start-up going, or simply enjoy a much-deserved getaway. With a population of almost a million, Austin is the nation's 15th and the state of Texas's fourth-most populous city.
The city is also strategically located in the middle of the state with access to lush green spaces, and lakes. The bid to "Keep Austin Weird" is the reason why the local community supports freedom of expression. Uniquely strange attractions like the Cathedral of Junk which is a structure made up using random pieces of what most would consider as trash. The city also leans more towards a liberal stance compared to other Texas cities.
The city continuously embraces change but holds onto the attractive features that make it a beloved metropolitan area. You should consider renting a film studio space in Austin for your upcoming production.
Film Studio Options in Austin
With an idea, script, and film studio in Austin, you have the basics needed to bring your screen vision to life. Several pieces of equipment and professionals are needed to work on a film project, and whatever you need for your production is all accessible locally.
- Film Studios
Chances are that you need a film studio space in Austin to produce talking head videos or a video series that requires a permanent/semi-permanent setup. Thankfully, there are selections of studios around the city that come with all the bells and whistles needed to get you started.
- Cameras
Having the right camera and lenses can give your project a production quality boost. Buying a basic DSLR, camera mount, and other accessories costs quite a lot of money. The go-between is hiring the equipment from a film equipment rental company in Austin.
- Lighting
Working with proper lighting is another way of boosting your production quality. Again, these pieces of equipment don't come cheap and you can access whatever the studio doesn't have from the equipment rental companies in Austin.
- Sound Equipment
Terrible sound can easily ruin great content and that's why you should equally pay attention to the audio quality. Whether you need boom microphones or lavaliers; the equipment rental companies in Austin have inventories of the sound equipment you need.
- Editor
Once you've recorded your film project, you'll need to work with an editor to piece the different components together. A professional has the necessary skills needed to get the job done effectively within a given timeframe.
Film Studio Companies in Austin
Whether you are working on the pilot for an upcoming binge-worthy TV series or shooting an advertisement video, it takes the collaborative effort of several professionals to make it work. The local experts can lend a hand and help you come up with a cohesive production.
- MP&E Equipment Rental
Born out of a passion for visual storytelling, MP&E Equipment Rental has an extensive list of carefully curated filming products. Their rental items include cameras, lenses, lighting, grip trucks, and other accessories.
- Austin Props & Set Dressing
This rental business provides selections of movie props as well as set decorations services. Scott Reeder is the brains behind the company with experience as a prop man in the film industry.
- Arise Video
Arise Video is the business you want crafting your marketing videos, documentary film, or animation. Their list of services also includes photography and video consulting. They can help you identify a big idea, package it engagingly, and distribute your videos.
Pros and Cons of Film Studios in Austin
Austin ticks most of the boxes when it comes to its livability factor and job prospects. However, when you need to lock down a film studio space in Austin for your scheduled production, you'll experience certain advantages and challenges specific to the location.
Advantages
- The cultural scene
If you need some inspiration for your film project you won't need to look far because Austin has a renowned art and music scene. Live music, in particular, attracts visitors far and wide.
- Residents don't pay income tax
It's worth exploring the different tax exemptions you and your film crew can access when working on the film project in Austin. The state of Texas doesn't require residents to pay state income tax.
- Gas is inexpensive
More than likely, you'll need a vehicle to transport your film crew, cast, and equipment from to/from the film studio in Austin. The inexpensive gas costs make it possible to access affordable car hire services.
- Investors love Austin
Several big companies started operations in Austin because the city favors investors. You'll also feel the same way when working on your film project.
- The technology
You'll possibly be able to get your hands on all the latest technology related to filmmaking in Austin. The city is well-known for its thriving tech sector which is also one of its biggest employers.
Disadvantages
- Austin isn't a walkable city
You won't be able to cut costs by getting around on foot because Austin isn't a walkable city. Even then, your film crew and cast will prefer having transport logistics handled so that they can be where they are needed on time.
- You can easily overspend in this city
The city's luxuries, particularly eating out, add up quickly and it's the same case when you are working on a film project. Have a professional handle this aspect to avoid overspending.
- The city is liberal
Most cities in Texas tend to be conservative but Austin is different. The community, in general, embraces liberal views. It's something you should know if your film explores conservative views and the production targets the local community.
- The summer heat
The scorching summer heat experienced in Austin makes conditions quite uncomfortable. Air conditioning is a necessary amenity your chosen film studio in Austin should have.
- It's a college town
The city has a large presence of college students largely thanks to the University of Texas at Austin. You might want to avoid the noise-prone and crowded spots when looking for a film studio in the city.
Famous Locations in Austin
- Zilker Metropolitan Park
The Zilker Metropolitan Park houses several fascinating attractions and recreational facilities. Covering 351 acres, the park is where you'll find the Zilker Playscape designed to keep kids well-preoccupied and the Zilker Zephyr which is a miniature train found along the water's edge.
- Mount Bonnell
Mount Bonnell is the perfect spot to go hiking, for a picnic, or simply take breathtakingly beautiful photos. Located at the city's highest point, the formation reaches 775 feet. There's a pavilion and observation deck that offers stunning views of downtown Austin.
- Umlauf Sculpture Garden and Museum
Charles Umlauf curated an impressive collection of sculptors that are on display at the Umlauf Sculpture Garden and Museum. The museum also showcases exhibits dedicated to the artist's life and temporary exhibits by other artists.