About Austin
Austin is the perfect city to plan any type of video shoot and finding a video shoot location should be no trouble at all. With access to all types of outdoor activities, a thriving nightlife and arts community, and one of the best food scenes anywhere, you’ll find whatever suits your fancy somewhere in Austin. The city is also in a prime location to explore other major cities in Texas, so once you’re done filming, you’re in a great place to branch out and find new inspiration.
The weather is typical of the midwest in Austin. It’s warm for pretty much the entire year, making it fairly pleasant to go about your business outdoors if you need to. One thing to note is that in the summer months the temperature can soar well above 100 degrees, meaning it’s a good idea to watch the forecast and stay indoors when it’s at its hottest.
Video Shoot Options in Austin
A video shoot is not a simple affair. Even if you find the perfect video shoot location, of which there are lots in Austin, you still have to manage the crew, the stars of the video, and all the background work that keeps everything running. That can be overwhelming, especially if you don’t have a lot of experience.
- Video Equipment
You can’t expect that just because you find an amazing Austin video shoot location that it will have video and production equipment there just waiting for you and if it does, it still might not be everything you need. To save yourself a bit of a headache, it’s a good idea to find a local video equipment rental company and have everything required on hand before the shoot begins. In most cases they’ll even help you set everything up and give you advice.
- Food
When you’ve got a full crew, plus performers, actors and extras in a video shoot to take care of, the last thing you want is any of them getting hungry. Since it’s not likely that you brought a trained chef with you to your video shoot, bring in catering while the shoot is going on. Whether it’s just a table of foods that everyone can eat from, or prepared meals that everyone eats at a set time, you’ll be glad you kept everyone well fed while working on your shoot.
- Transportation
The last thing you want to worry about in the middle of production is making sure that everyone actually shows up. The tricky thing is, if you’re new to Austin, figuring out how to get everyone to where they need to be can be rough going. That’s when hiring a car service can save you lots of time and effort. You’ll get everyone on set and on time so that everything goes according to plan.
Video Shoot Companies in Austin
An Austin video shoot location should be easy to get to and be fully equipped as you start. To organize the space, look to local experts.
- MP & E + GEAR Cameras and Lighting
There’s a lot that goes into a video shoot, but the last thing anybody wants is the final product to look bad due to poor quality equipment. That’s where renting your equipment from a company like GEAR Cameras and Lighting comes in. They have everything from movie-quality cameras and professional stage lighting so that your video looks as well done as any of the big blockbusters out there. This company has two decades of expertise under its belt.
- Dagar’s Catering
When you need to feed a large group of people to keep them happy and working, the best solution is always to bring in a professional. With Dagar’s Catering, that’s exactly what you get. Since 1952, they’ve been creating exquisite menus with full service. From buffets to sit down meals, say the word, and Dagar’s will deliver.
- Capital City Limousine
Your crew and the stars of your video shoot are the most important things about the whole production. Equipment can be replaced, people cannot. So when it comes to taking care of everyone involved, making sure they get places safely is of the utmost importance. Capital City Limousine can provide private car transportation. They have a fleet of vehicles that can transport anywhere from a few people to a large group wherever you need them to go. For over 25 years, this professional limo service has provided chauffeur-driven vehicles and excellent service.
Pros and Cons of Video Shoots in Austin
Austin is one of those big cities where folks love to live. With nature all around them, good weather most of the time, and a ton to see and do, it’s no wonder that over 1 million people live there. Just because parts of Austin are great though, doesn’t mean that there aren’t a few negatives as well.
Advantages
- Outdoor life
Are you looking to maybe do an outdoor video shoot? No matter what type of outdoor activity you like, Austin has a place for it. From hiking trails that lead up to stunning views of the city to watersports on crystal clear lakes, you'll find the ideal locale.
- Music scene
You may have heard a lot of hype surrounding the music scene in Austin. From the number of venues to the famous Austin City Limits music show there is plenty to see for nearly every taste around.
- No state taxes
One benefit that Austin shares with the rest of Texas is the fact that while you’re there, you won’t have to pay any state taxes. This can make the affordability factor just a little bit better when you’re planning your video shoot.
Disadvantages
- Traffic
One problem that almost every big city faces and Austin is no exception, is having congested traffic. With 1 million residents and most of them owning cars, it’s no wonder that getting around in this city can be a bit of a problem.
- Summer bugs
A city like Austin has bugs most of the year. There are hundreds of species of ants but an outdoor video shoot will mostly be dealing with mosquitoes. Come prepared with bug repellant.
- The heat
If you aren’t from Texas or the south in general, then the summer months may shock you a bit. Temperatures can easily hit triple digits and the unprepared may find themselves unable to handle the spike. If you're not used to the heat, best to plan your video shoot to be indoors and turn up the air conditioning.
Famous Locations in Austin
- Texas Hill Country
If you like exploring nature and seeing amazing sights, then spending a day on the outskirts of Austin in what is known as hill country will be for you. Not only are there plenty of wide-open spaces, but you’ll find plenty of natural caves and caverns to dive into as well.
- Zilker Botanical Garden
If you like your nature to be a bit more confined and on display, then you’ll love the Zilker Botanical Garden. Situated in Zilker Metropolitan Park, this 26-acre garden features all types of both native and non-native plants for you to discover each time you visit.
- Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail
If you’re up for getting a little exercise and seeing what Austin has to offer, then there's no better way than by taking the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail. This trail connects downtown Austin with Lady Bird Lake, a reservoir that is connected to the Colorado River. You’ll get to see both nature at its finest and the heart of Austin all in one trail.
