About Alexandria
Alexandria is a populous center located in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Nestled along the shores of the Potomac River, Alexandria is only a short distance from Washington DC’s core, a drive of seven miles in total. Since Alexandria is so closely connected to DC, it is not a surprise that it is influenced by its culture and lifestyle.
The city’s residents are largely employed by the US military, the civil service, or private corporations that assist the federal government. Among the main employers of Alexandria’s homeowners is the US Department of Defense.
With its incredible architecture, quaint cobblestone streets, and a large number of natural spaces, Alexandria makes the ideal spot to film a documentary, TV show, movie, or commercial. If you’re thinking of starting to search for the perfect Alexandria film shoot location, you’ll have no difficulty finding a spot that feels just right here.
Film Shoot Options in Alexandria
Alexandria film shoot locations are very popular, so starting your search well in advance of filming is always a good idea. When you locate the perfect locale, you can then hire some of the city’s top supply vendors to help you get the space organized so filming can begin.
- Hair and Makeup
Lining up a top-tier makeup artist and hairstylist to provide on-site beauty services at your Alexandria film shoot location is the best way to ensure your film schedule stays on target. Alexandria is home to many of the top hair and makeup professionals in the state, many of whom have vast experience preparing their clients for film and photo shoots.
- Prop Rentals
Every film set requires props to help each scene to be authentic to the script. If you’re looking for something specific for your Alexandria film shoot location, there are many local prop stores and furniture rental companies that can help you source everything you need.
- Coffee Service
Every film shoot is more productive if the cast and crew have access to a steady flow of steaming hot joe. Ensure your staff remains well-hydrated by partnering with one of Alexandria’s top mobile coffee catering companies to provide java to go and some sweet treats to complement its rich flavor and aroma.
Film Shoot Companies in Alexandria
Once you’ve found the perfect location for your film shoot in Alexandria, half the battle is won. Now it’s time to find the right professionals who can help you get the place set up correctly for a productive film shoot.
- Alexandria Pastry Shop and Catering
Alexandria Pastry Shop and Catering offers full-service catering services for business meetings, corporate events, film shoots, celebrations, and weddings. With a wide selection of menu items from which you can choose, Alexandria Pastry Shop and Catering works within your budget to help you create a spread of eats that will keep your cast and crew well-fed and coming back for more.
- A&A Rental
A&A Rental is located in Alexandria and offers more than 40 years of experience helping businesses, film and photo shoots, and theater professionals to source the rental equipment they need for successful productions and events. A family-owned and operated company, A&A Rental has the widest selection of props, equipment, and furniture in the state, ensuring you have access to anything you need whenever you need it.
- Glam, Set, Go
Glam, Set, Go is a team of beauty professionals providing makeup and hairstyling services directly to your door. With expertise in hair and makeup for the film and photo industry, your cast and crew are sure to look their very best when you most need them to, ensuring your film shoot stays on schedule.
Pros and Cons of Film Shoots in Alexandria
Alexandria is one metropolitan center that has much to commend it. Still, as with most urban cities, there are positives and negatives to choosing Alexandria as the location for your film shoot.
Advantages
- Most attractions within walking distance
Old Town is one area of Alexandria where you can easily access everything you need on foot. Cars are not a necessity here since everything from grocery stores to restaurants, shopping malls, and even gyms are all within walking distance of your home.
- Interesting history
Alexandria is one of the oldest settlements in the United States and was even once home to George Washington. Its historical significance is well documented both in print, artifacts, and buildings for you to discover.
- Exceptional cuisine
There are many incredible restaurants to enjoy in Alexandria’s Old Town. Among the must-try places are Bastille, Virtue Feed & Grain, and Restaurant Eve.
Disadvantages
- Possibility of flooding
Alexandria’s location at the mouth of the Potomac River coupled with its relatively low elevation level makes it a prime target for flooding.
- Overcrowding
Alexandria is a very densely populated city, making it feel quite overcrowded.
- Heavy traffic
With its close proximity to Washington DC, Alexandria experiences heavy traffic on a continual basis.
Famous Locations in Alexandria
- George Washington Masonic National Memorial
If you are a true fan of history, a visit to the George Washington Masonic National Memorial is sure to delight you. This facility is more than just a popular landmark. It also houses a museum, a library, a concert hall, a community center, and a research center.
- Torpedo Factory Art Center
The Torpedo Factory Art Center was once an ammunition manufacturing plant that was transformed into an art center in 1974. Today, it contains many artists’ studios, galleries, a museum, and several workshop areas where you can meet artists in residence, attend classes, and enjoy the exhibitions on display.
- Jones Point Lighthouse
A prominent tool helping ships navigate their way through the Potomac River from 1856 to 1926, the Jones Point Lighthouse is the only river-based facility of its kind found in the Chesapeake Bay. The lighthouse has not been in operation since 1926 and was transformed into a museum in 1964.
