About Oakland
Oakland was a grassy plain covered with oak trees when Horace Carpentier started a ferry service from San Francisco to the small-town site that he acquired in 1852. A lot has changed since he named the place Oakland, but it maintains its charm. Economic viability is strong in Oakland as the ports on the San Francisco Bay and the manufacturing industries provide employment opportunities.
The city may not have the same name recognition as others in California, but it does have just as much to offer. The moderate climate, culinary excursions, cultural opportunities, and business development all create the perfect mix of a liveable and exciting city.
Video Shoot Options in Oakland
It’s no secret that video shoot locations in Oakland are popular because of all the city has to offer. In fact, the businesses within the city are well equipped to fulfill the needs of any project that arrives. The Mediterranean climate, access to culture, and beautiful architecture make this a popular choice among videographers.
- Catering
Video shoots can mean a long day on the set. One way to keep everyone happy and productively working is with catering. We connect through food, it helps us refuel, focus, and produce our best work. Oakland understands this and produces the best catering options to keep your day running smoothly.
- Furniture Rentals
It’s easier to travel light when the equipment and furniture you need can be found in the city. The furniture rental companies in Oakland can provide you with anything you need. The good news is that if they don’t have it, they can get it. There are benefits to being one of the biggest shipping ports in the state.
- Transportation
Traffic in the Bay Area is notorious, and not always in a good way. Oakland doesn’t have the same congestion as San Francisco, but it exists. Take the headache and hassle out of transportation through one of the convenient public or private transportation options that the city offers.
Video Shoot Companies in Oakland
Video shoot locations in Oakland can facilitate production needs from the planning phases to the final wrap. Each offers professional services with the goal of making their customer’s life easier and helping your project be as successful as possible.
- The Red Door
The Red Door is all about connection and bringing people together. Their team includes both chefs and event designers – and they continuously exceed clients’ expectations with the delicious food and exquisite service. The menu features everything from caviar to chicken wings.
- Stuart Rental
Stuart Rental has served the Bay Area since 1849, and its core purpose is to help people. They provide rentals for everything from weddings to corporate events, and with multiple showrooms in California, can easily source whatever is needed for your video shoot.
- Oakland Town Car
Oakland Town Car prides itself on being the best in the industry, and there’s no denying that they will get you where you need to be, and on time. They believe in exceeding their client’s expectations with their chauffeurs and fleet of vehicles. Safety and reliability are standard on every trip they make.
Pros and Cons of Video Shoots in Oakland
Alas, perfection does not exist, and there are pros and cons to video shoot locations in Oakland. You know your project best, go through the list, and figure out if there are any deal-breakers. If not, keep planning.
Advantages
- The sun is always shining
Well, perhaps that should be rephrased that the sun is usually shining. But you get the point. Oakland is known for its moderate weather, and it’s one of the reasons there are so many video shoots here, as well as tourists and residents. The weather makes it a welcoming place.
- The arts
The vibrant art scene is a major advantage for Oakland as they can offer something for every art lover. Theater, symphony, galleries – it’s all here. Where there is an art scene, there are also artists, and these people make Oakland a special city to visit and shoot a video in.
- Architecture
The wrong background can really ruin a video shoot. Oakland has some stunning architecture, especially in the Old Oakland neighborhood, that is the perfect backdrop for any video shoot. Add in the mix of businesses and infrastructure, and you have an architectural buffet.
Disadvantages
- Show me the money
Unfortunately, those in Oakland have found that the cost of living and working in the city is high. You will need to show the money and pay a little bit more for the goods and services your video shoot needs. Taxes are also high in the city, further straining video shoot budgets.
- The heat index
An outdoor video shoot in the summer will be a challenge in Oakland, CA because of the heat index. The climate is generally moderate, sunny, and arid throughout the summer months, and July, August, and September are some of the best weather months in the city. But, when the temperature spikes – and it has gone as high as 109 degrees Fahrenheit in the past – it can be an uncomfortable place to work.
- Congestion
The infrastructure in Oakland is well developed, but unfortunately, it is also over capacity at many points throughout the day. Expect travel to take just a little bit longer in Oakland, CA as everyone else tries to get to their next location too.
Famous Locations in Oakland
- Lake Merritt
Nature and nurture meet in this urban park and water space. Lake Merritt is located in the heart of Oakland, right near the center of the city. The lake is actually a tidal lagoon and was designated national wildlife refuge in 1870. There are three miles of shoreline trails to explore, plus the surrounding parks, making this a favorite destination for many.
- Redwood Regional Park
Walking through the pristine forest with 150-year-old trees, it’s hard to believe that Redwood Regional Park was ever anything but a park. However, in the mid-1800s, most of the trees were cut down and their timber was used to build San Francisco and Oakland. Today, the forest has recovered and is once again a magical place to explore.
- Oakland Symphony Orchestra
The Oakland East Bay Symphony has delighted music aficionados since its early days, and the ongoing orchestra and choral music are a key feature enjoyed by residents and visitors to Oakland. They also offer youth programs and continue strengthening their connection to the community.
