About Southampton
Southampton is one of the famous towns on the eastern side of Long Island that comprise what is universally referred to as The Hamptons. The town has over 56,000 residents and is much larger than its neighbor, East Hampton.
It is home to Stony Brook University and many of the amenities associated with larger towns. But make no mistake, Southampton is still a seaside resort town that has served as a getaway for New Yorkers and others in the Northeast for generations.
Geographically, Southampton is on the South Fork of Long Island and faces the Atlantic Ocean. It’s separated from the North Fork by the Peconic Bay. It’s a narrow expanse of land that is kept cool by the breezes off the Atlantic Ocean. The area was originally home to the Montauk Native Americans.
Filming Options in Southampton
The town is comprised of seven villages and 16 hamlets that add to its unique character. The sturdy, seaside homes and buildings ooze charm and lend themselves to photography and filming. Similarly, the scenic locations throughout the town have long made filming in Southampton popular.
- Catering
It is hard to say what the best part of filming is, the creative process, or the catering that accompanies busy days on the set. You are guaranteed outstanding catering in a town that’s known as a seaside resort. Fresh seafood is of course a mainstay of Southampton catering businesses, and the menus available show that any culinary need can be met.
- Furniture Rentals
You will find it easy to find furniture rentals in Southampton because there are so many vacation homes and other businesses that focus on short-term stays and services. It is really only a matter of selecting a style and delivery date.
- Transportation
The Hamptons are located about 100 miles outside of New York City, and there is some public transportation available, as well as private transportation options. The Long Island Railroad travels to Southampton on the Montauk line and there is also a bus service, a small airport, ferries, and several major roads in and out of town.
Filming Companies in Southampton
Filming companies in Southampton have the advantage of choices when partnering with businesses to make the film project a success. Caterers, furniture rental companies, and transportation are all prepared and scaled to size to handle the request that accompanies filming in Southampton.
- Janet O’Brien Caterers & Events Inc.
Chances are that if you have been to the Hamptons, you have eaten one of the beautiful and illustrious meals prepared by Janet O’Brien Caterers and Events, Inc. This full-service company carefully sources the finest ingredients and creates stunning culinary displays that taste as good as they look.
- Something Different Party Rental
It’s important to differentiate filming from others, and Something Different Party Rental has two decades of experience helping events and films of all sizes stand out in a unique and memorable way. The premises of their business include attention to detail and understanding that people are at the core of everything the business does.
- Hampton Jitney
Hampton Jitney is a private and family-owned motorcoach company that offers commuter transportation, private charters, events, weddings, wine tastings, and more. The service has three primary routes and travels between Southampton and New York City.
Pros and Cons of Filming in Southampton
Lights, camera, action. Well, not quite so fast, there are pros and cons of filming in Southampton that should be evaluated before a final decision is made. It’s easy to be drawn into the town and fall in love but understanding the good and the bad will facilitate a smoother process.
Advantages
- Beautiful beaches
The beaches of Southampton continue to be a major draw that brings people to the area. It’s easy to understand why they are the types of beaches that you think are only seen in paintings or postcards.
- Film friendly
Southampton has seen many film crews in the past and is a welcoming filming location. The town has adapted to media needs given the high-level residents and previous projects completed here.
- Versatile
The town is versatile, and the mix of buildings, homes, and community spaces, along with outdoor vistas that can fulfill whatever needs you require of a filming location.
Disadvantages
- Crowds
In the summer, the population of Southampton swells until the number of people rivals the humidity and can feel stifling. Despite the challenges of crowded areas, it’s still a popular filming location throughout the year.
- Show me the money
Vacation towns are notoriously expensive, and Southampton is no different. Prices are higher here, whether it’s for supplies or personnel.
- Paparazzi
Southampton’s residents have included Calvin Klein, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, and Michael J Fox. It’s known as a vacation destination for the elites and the paparazzi can be unpleasant at times.
Famous Locations in Southampton
- Southampton Arts Center
Community is built through the arts at Southampton Arts Center (SAC), and they accomplish their mission through programs, events, and exhibitions. SAC is open year-round and is inclusive, fun, responsive, and an advocate to create a stronger community. The gallery is open Friday through Sunday with a nominal suggested donation.
- Cooper’s Beach
Cooper’s Beach consistently ranks in the top 10 of the best beaches in the United States, and a quick view down the white, sandy expanse explains why. It’s one of 11 beaches in Southampton, and among them all, there are seven miles of ocean to enjoy. Cooper’s Beach is a favorite because of the stunning backdrop of mansions along with the pristine shoreline.
- Channing Daughters Winery
Unique blends of grapes create delicious wines at Channing Daughters Winery in Bridgehampton, a village of Southampton. The vineyard features over 12 varieties of grapes and is fed by the soil and cool sea breezes wafting off the Atlantic Ocean. The farm is about 28-acres total and committed to sustainability and quality wine. Stop by for a tasting and a visit to their sculpture garden.