About Vancouver
Vancouver is a stunning city on the West Coast of Canada renowned for its beautiful natural backdrop, often appearing in films and other media productions. Its distinctive waterfront skyline with coastal mountains completing the picture is an incomparable sight that has made a widely filmed and broadcasted cities in North America.
Easy access between urban and rural settings makes the region an ideal filming location. Vancouver has hosted several big-screen productions like Blade Runner (1982) and Deadpool (2016). The city’s unique combination of urban and wilderness spaces has made it an ideal location for productions ranging from Hollywood blockbusters to television series.
Its modern infrastructure makes it a highly sought-after destination for independent filmmakers and big production companies. Whether you want to record breathtaking aerial shots or intimate studio scenes, Vancouver has a backdrop that will take your project to the next level.
Backdrop Options in Vancouver
- Cameras & Lighting
Cameras and lighting are essential elements when working on video productions. Having the right equipment on hand brings out the best in the background space, allowing the director to capture unique angles and create a mood that fits with the scene. Specialized cameras, like DSLRs and professional lights, make all the difference when establishing a particular atmosphere or ambiance.
- Post-production Services
Post-production is an important step that requires knowledge and skill to ensure that all aspects of recorded material create a cohesive product. This includes editing footage from multiple angles, adding effects or graphics, mixing audio, and more. Post-production services guarantee a polished product at the end of the filming process.
- Production Assistant
A production assistant is responsible for helping set up scenes and props before each shot, organizing equipment and supplies, handling the paperwork on a film set, and providing general assistance to the director or producer when necessary. Production assistants also often log daily footage after it has been shot to maintain an organized workflow during post-production.
Backdrop Vendors in Vancouver
- Henry's
Since it first opened its doors over a century ago, Henry's has long been a trusted source of high-quality photographic products and services. Boasting over 15,000 products from big-name brands such as Canon, Nikon, and Fujifilm just to name a few, this is Canada's go-to photographic retailer. With an award-winning customer service team of 500 Imaging Experts with decades worth of knowledge between them, you can trust that the advice given will always be top-notch!
- Oleg Smykalov Visual Effects
Oleg Smykalov is a visual effects artist who founded his own VFX services company in 2013. He offers cost-effective solutions for individuals and small businesses in need of stunning images and visual effects. Among his skill sets are general VFX, compositing, product visualization, 360VR storytelling, motion graphics, and educational video creation.
- Shoots Video
With years of experience in top-level video production and access to a wide network of expert talent and crew, this company is highly regarded in the industry for its exceptional results. For those who have a clear idea of what they want but need support in putting it all together, Shoots Video's professional guidance can help them realize their vision.
Pros and Cons of Backdrop Spaces in Vancouver
Thanks to its spectacular natural landscapes, robust infrastructure, and ample production resources, Vancouver has become a hotspot for filmmakers. Although the local venues present an ideal backdrop for making movies and other media projects, it is important to weigh both the pros and cons before committing to shooting in any one space.
Advantages
- Backdrop spaces are available for short notice rental at an affordable price, making them an attractive option for production teams on tight budgets or schedules.
- With a wide range of outdoor and indoor spaces available, production teams can find diverse backdrops that enrich their project.
- Locations in Vancouver often come with ready permits, making it much easier to produce content without dealing with complicated paperwork.
Disadvantages
- Depending on the time of year and location chosen, production teams may have to deal with unpredictable weather conditions.
- Some backdrop spaces can be difficult to access, particularly if they are located in remote areas or require special permissions or transportation.
- Certain spaces may be subject to restrictions on what sort of activities can take place there, such as noise limits and lighting restrictions.
Tips on How to Organize Backdrop Spaces in Vancouver
Vancouver is one of the most beautiful cities in the world and its scenic backdrop spaces make it an ideal filming location. Here are some tips to help you organize and make the most of your filming experience in Vancouver's backdrop spaces.
- Choose the right backdrop – Go for a backdrop that best suits your needs. Consider whether you need something solid or translucent, large or small, textured or plain; these details allow you to create the look that you desire for your shoot. If possible, take a look at photos from previous shoots at the same location to get an idea of what works best in this particular setting.
- Set up properly – Use suitable lighting and other elements such as props and furniture. Place lights and reflective materials in strategic locations to soften shadows caused by natural light coming into the room through windows or doors. Additionally, arrange chairs and other props to create an attractive setting that adds visual interest without distracting from the primary focus of the shoot.
- Monitor conditions – Pay attention to temperature levels and airflow during setup. Maintaining constant temperature levels throughout helps prevent shimmering on clothing surfaces due to heat changes between shots or throughout the day’s work period. Make sure windows are covered with blackout curtains if there is direct sunlight coming in during part of the day; this ensures consistent lighting for each shot.
- Have backup plans – Be prepared in case something unexpected arises. Pack backup equipment just in case something fails unexpectedly so that you don’t lose valuable time on the shoot day. Keep spare materials handy for creating last-minute effects.
- Get extra help: Depending on the scale of your project, enlist the services of assistants or makeup artists who can add more creative flair to your project. Having more hands on deck can be especially beneficial if you are working on a big shoot or need someone else to manage external lighting sources or other filming equipment.
Famous Locations in Vancouver
- Catriona Jeffries Gallery
Catriona Jeffries Gallery has been a major player in the Vancouver contemporary art scene since it opened its doors in 1994. The institution prides itself on introducing internationally renowned artists to Vancouver with an emphasis on conceptual art deriving from the city's history. This means that the gallery is constantly engaging in dialogue with other artists, curators, museums, private collections, and writers to keep up-to-date with the latest trends in the art world.
- Barnet Marine Park
Barnet Marine Park is a must-see destination for locals and visitors to British Columbia. Sitting between Burnaby and Port Morton on the Barnet Highway, this beach features an array of spectacular views of the Burrard Inlet from its vast sandy shore. The park offers not just beautiful scenic views, but also multiple amenities such as walking trails, picnic tables, and even an off-leash dog area. For those looking for even more stunning vistas, you're in luck! Across the Burrard Inlet from Barnet Marine Park sits Cates Park which offers its own adventure-filled activities from kayaking trails to stunning views.
- North Vancouver
Taking the Seabus over to North Vancouver is one of the most underrated ways to experience Vancouver. You shouldn’t miss out on the views of the skyline while the sun sets, which can be enjoyed at both Lonsdale Quay and Waterfront Park. The Shipyards Night Market is another great way to explore the area; it takes place every Friday night from May until October and has a beer garden, live music, food trucks, as well as market stalls full of locally made items you can take home with you.