About Ojai
Located 12 miles north of Ventura, California in Ventura County is the small city of Ojai. Los Angeles is just 63 miles away, making Ojai a quick escape from bustling city life. The region was originally inhabited by Chumash Native Americans and is named for the Native American word meaning “moon.” The area was first named Nordhoff, but it was changed to Ojai in 1917. It was not incorporated as a city until 1921.
The small city is in the Ojai Valley, which spans ten miles. It’s surrounded on every side by scenic views of rolling mountains and hills. As of 2010, the population in Ojai was 7,461. The recreational options in Ojai combined with the cozy small-town atmosphere have made it a popular tourist destination.
Thanks to an Ojai City law, chain stores are prohibited, except for a couple of gas stations. This was done to encourage small businesses in the area and is one of the biggest appeals of the city. This could benefit you in finding an Ojai film shoot location that is just perfect.
Film Shoot Location Options in Ojai
Finding the right Ojai film shoot location shouldn’t be difficult with all the choices there are in the city and county. The Ventura County community of Ojai is full of options you can utilize at your next film shoot location.
- Equipment
You’ll need the right equipment for your Ojai film shoot location, and there are plenty of companies to rent from in Ventura County. In addition, there are a number of production companies that will provide the equipment, along with a film crew to work with you.
- Studio
If you need to find a studio or sound stage for your film shoot then you can count on plenty of options around Ojai. Less than two hours away is Los Angeles, so if you don’t mind the distance you can look at studios in the city.
- Catering
It’s common for film shoots to provide catering options for the cast, crew, and similar workers. Ojai has several options you can consider, with menus to match nearly any taste buds.
Film Shoot Location Companies in Ojai
Take your time to look for every feature you want and need in your Ojai film shoot location. Once you have your preferred spot chosen, you can ask for help. There are plenty of companies in and around Ojai that can assist with setting up your film shoot location.
- Private Chef Robin
Private Chef Robin is a self-catering option in Ojai that could be the perfect choice for your film shoot location. The company has a team of experienced chefs that can create menus for anywhere from two to twenty people. Menus are created using local ingredients from Ventura County, and they are custom designed for each client.
- Grant Sound and Lighting, Inc.
Grant Sound and Lighting, Inc. can provide nearly any kind of audiovisual equipment you might need for your Ojai film shoot location. They’ve worked on a range of musical and corporate events and are specialized in using lighting to enhance the atmosphere. They strive to continue stocking the most up-to-date equipment available, so clients are always getting the best gear.
- Quartermile Films
Quartermile Films is a video production company in Ojai that you can hire to work on your film shoot location. They have experience working on various types of film projects. Quartermile Films has created documentaries, commercials, music videos, broadcast projects, and more. Their creative experience may be just the thing to take your film shoot to the next level.
Pros and Cons of Film Shoot Locations in Ojai
Choosing a film shoot location in Ojai will come with pros and cons. It is always advised to consider both sides of a city before making any final decisions.
Advantages
- Low crime rate
The crime rates in Ojai are below both the state and national average. This makes it one of the safest communities to consider in Southern California. Ojai received an A+ rating for crime on City Statistics.
- Beach access
When you are in Ojai, California you are just a short distance from several beautiful beaches. You can make quick trips to San Buenaventura State Beach, Rincon Beach County Park, Oil Piers Beach, and more. The city is just 15 miles from the coast.
- Ojai Valley
Since Ojai is located in Ojai Valley you will get to enjoy all of the outdoor scenery that the valley has to offer. There are several places to enjoy the great outdoors in Ojai, whether you want to hike, swim, or just lay out in the sun.
Disadvantages
- Wildfires
Ojai is prone to wildfires during the warmer months, just like most other regions in California. These natural disasters have the potential to cause major damage, and locals are asked to have emergency plans prepared.
- Distance from city
While Ojai is close to many bigger cities, it is around two hours from Los Angeles. Trips to LA are possible, but the distance combined with the traffic is likely to make the journey a hassle.
- Declining population
Ojai has always been a small community, but in recent years the population has been on a steady decline. Since fewer people are moving into the area, this is considered a major disadvantage. It’s possible it could cause negative impacts in the future.
Famous Locations in Ojai
- Beatrice Wood Center for the Arts
Ojai is known for all of the art it offers, and the Beatrice Wood Center for the Arts is one of the top attractions in the city. The Center can be found a short ten-minute drive from downtown, and it offers collections of Beatrice Wood’s own art. The museum was built out of the artist’s home and studio, with guided tours, offered most days of the week.
- Ojai Olive Oil's Farm
The Ojai Olive Oil's Farm is one of the top attractions in the community and brings in visitors throughout the year. Tours and tastings are free, and the farm is just four miles out of Ojai. It has been run by the Asquith Family for three generations and is home to olive trees that are 150 years old. Guests can taste a variety of olive oils and balsamic vinegar.
- Ojai Valley Museum of History and Art
The Ojai Valley Museum of History and Art is one of the best places for visitors in Ojai to get a glimpse at the region’s history. The museum can be found in an old church and is a registered National Historic Building. Two rooms hold exhibits that take visitors from the early days of Ojai to the present day. The Sespe Wilderness diorama and the Chumash Interpretive Garden are two of the museum’s major highlights.
