About Detroit
Detroit, a city in Michigan sometimes referred to as the Motor City, is an interesting place in which to live, work, play, or visit. An urban center with a history as diverse as it is fascinating, there is much to see and do during a trip to Detroit. A city renowned for its tremendous heart, the residents of Detroit form a community characterized by closeness and a true neighborly spirit.
Found directly beneath the thumb on the mitt-shaped state of Michigan, Detroit is approximately 200 miles from Chicago to the east and connects to Canada via the Detroit River. This metropolitan center has a large population base of greater than 670,000 people. In recent years, the number of residents calling Detroit home has decreased, but the city remains Michigan’s biggest urban area both by size and population.
With its beautiful scenery and rich history, it’s not hard to see why many directors select Detroit as the ideal place to do some filming. If you’re searching for the ideal Detroit filming locale, you won’t have any shortage of great places to choose from here.
Filming Options in Detroit
The hunt for the perfect Detroit filming locale can take some time and effort. Once you’ve settled on your ideal spot, it’s time to hire some local professionals to get the space ready for the cameras to roll. Detroit is home to many top-tier supply vendors that can be a big help to you.
- Catering
Keeping your cast and crew well fed at your Detroit filming location is a great way to boost morale and ensure your schedule stays on target. With so many catering companies to choose from, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to options for the spread on your film set. Whether your goals include simple coffee service with a side of sweets, sandwich trays with fruit and cheese, or something more elaborate, the right catering company can provide.
- Hair and Makeup
Ensure your cast is camera ready when you most need them to be by hiring some of Motor City’s top beauty professionals to provide their services at your Detroit filming set. Detroit is home to some of the most highly recommended hairstylists and makeup artists in the state, giving you a wide selection of exceptionally talented people from which to choose.
- Security
Since you cannot be on-site at your film set every hour of every day, it’s a great idea to hire a professional security team to ensure your valuable property and possessions remain safe and secure. Whether you are interested in on-site security guards, video surveillance, or a sophisticated alarm system, the right Detroit security service company can ensure you have everything you need.
Filming Companies in Detroit
Once you’ve settled on the perfect place to do some filming in Detroit, it’s time to ensure everything is in place for a productive shoot. Detroit has many supply vendors, rental companies, and set decorators that can help you get your film set ready for filming to begin in no time.
- Edibles Rex Catering
Edibles Rex Catering is a Detroit-based full-service catering company that first began as a small eatery specializing in takeout cuisine. In 1992, the restaurant branched out into the catering industry and has since achieved great success providing its top cuisine for events of any size or style.
- Jackie Karas Makeup
Located in the heart of metropolitan Detroit, Jackie Karas Makeup is well-renowned for its exceptional makeup artistry. With a focus on airbrushed makeup application and lash extensions and makeup for weddings, film and photo shoots, and other special events, Jackie Karas Makeup has the experience you need to keep your cast looking picture perfect at all times.
- Metro Protective Services
Metro Protective Services is one of the leading security businesses in Detroit, offering protection for clients in both the residential and commercial sectors. The head of Metro Protective Services is a former Deputy Chief of Police for the Wayne County police department, bringing more than twenty years of expertise to the company and the clients they serve.
Pros and Cons of Filming in Detroit
Detroit is an interesting city to spend some time in whether you are on vacation, attending an event, or doing some filming. Still, there are many advantages and disadvantages to consider when planning to rent a film shoot location in Detroit Rock City.
Advantages
- Multicultural population
Detroit has a population base that includes immigrants from countries all over the world, giving you the opportunity to experience a unique blend of cultures and cuisines during a visit here.
- Affordable cost of living
Though a large metropolitan center, the cost of living in Detroit is considered to be quite affordable.
- Thriving musical heritage
Detroit is not only the home of Motown but is also the place where the techno sound was born. The city is well renowned for its eclectic mix of annual concerts including such popular events as the Detroit Jazz Festival and the Electronic Music Festival.
Disadvantages
- Long, cold winters
The winters in Detroit seem very long since a cold snap is experienced from as early as October through April each year.
- High crime rate
Sadly, Detroit is a city that has become synonymous with elevated crime rates.
- Poor public transit options
Unfortunately, Detroit has very limited options for public transportation.
Famous Locations in Detroit
- Detroit Institute of Arts
The Detroit Institute of Arts offers the rare opportunity to enjoy a large collection of artworks and artifacts representing works from all over the world. Among the most beloved pieces found here are paintings by Rembrandt, Van Gogh, Matisse, and Picasso.
- Motown Museum
The Motown Museum, also sometimes called Hitsville USA, is a small facility that once housed the studio where artists renowned for the distinctive “Motown sound” first recorded their music. A tour of the grounds permits you to see the studio where Marvin Gaye recorded many of his songs as well as the apartment where Berry Gordy Jr, the founder of Motown, and his family lived during Motown’s hay day.
- Detroit Zoo
Located on 125 acres of property on the outskirts of the heart of the city, the Detroit Zoo is comprised of several different habitats where you can enjoy seeing a wide variety of domestic and exotic animals in housing reminiscent of their native homelands. From anteaters to zebras, this zoo has it all from A to Z and everything in between.
