About Richmond
Richmond is the capital city of the Commonwealth of Virginia. Considered to be one of the oldest metropolitan centers in the country, Richmond is an area of great historical significance. It is in this city that in 1775 Patrick Henry, one of the Founding Fathers of the United States, proclaimed, “Give me liberty or give me death!,” a statement that ushered in the Revolutionary War. Among the historical properties found in Richmond is the White House of the Confederacy, a building that was once home to President Jefferson Davis and has now been transformed into a popular museum.
In a metropolitan area that experiences all four seasons, you can expect hot, dry summers, moderate falls and springs, and brisk, cold winters in Richmond. The city is home to many events throughout the year regardless of the season or the weather including such popular attractions as the International Dragon Boat Festival and Shiver in the River.
If you’re thinking of setting up a film shoot while in Richmond, there are many great places from which you can choose. Whether you are looking for a scenic public park, a private spot along the beach, or a sound stage in a convention center or concert hall, you’ll be sure to find the perfect place in which to do some Richmond filming.
Filming Options in Richmond
The search for the ideal place in which to do some Richmond filming can feel like a grand adventure, allowing you to check out some of the best spots in the city during your quest. Once you’ve selected the perfect venue, it’s time to hire the right professionals to get the space perfectly outfitted, so the cameras can roll.
- Prop Rentals
Every film set can benefit from props and furniture to help set the stage for each scene. Ensure you have everything you require for doing some Richmond filming by partnering with one of the city’s best prop rental companies for all of your film set’s needs. From costumes, wigs, and stage makeup to handmade props, period piece furniture, and even artwork and décor, you’ll have no difficulty finding every item on your wish list with one of Richmond’s most highly recommended prop rental stores at work for you.
- Truck Rentals
Getting all of your equipment and supplies to your Richmond filming locale can be a chore without a vehicle large enough to get the job done safely and efficiently. That’s where one of Richmond’s top truck rental companies can be a big help to you. With a large fleet of trucks, cargo vans, and U-Haul trailers from which to choose, you’ll have no trouble finding the perfect vehicle to transport all of your valuable possessions to your film set and for a price you can easily afford.
- Security
Keeping your property and possessions safe and secure at your Richmond filming locale is one of your most important priorities. Since you cannot be on-site at all hours of the day to keep an eye on your stuff, it’s a great idea to hire one of the city’s most highly recommended security teams to do the job for you. Whether you are in need of a video surveillance camera or an alarm system or prefer on-site uniformed guards or mobile patrol, the right Richmond security company has got you covered.
Filming Companies in Richmond
Now that you’ve settled on the perfect spot at which to do some Richmond filming, your next big task is lining up the professionals you need to put the remaining details in perfect order. Richmond is home to some of the best supply vendors, set decorators, and rental companies in the state, giving you many talented professionals from which to choose.
- Paisley and Jade
Paisley and Jade is a Richmond-based prop rental store offering top-tier party supplies, furniture, and props for affordable prices. A company whose priority is dependable service, the staff at Paisley and Jade make it their mission to be fully available to help you source every item you require for your event, meeting, or film or photo shoot. With a warehouse of rental items housing thousands of items, Paisley and Jade is sure to have everything you need. Appointments are required to view the on-site rental collection.
- Penske Truck Rental
If you’re in need of a truck, van, or U-Haul trailer for a move, Richmond’s Penske Truck Rental is the place you need. Located in the city’s downtown core, Penske Truck Rental has a fleet of more than 50,000 commercial vehicles in various sizes with something sure to suit your requirements to a T. Rentals are available for as little as a day or as long as a month.
- Admiral Security Services
A national chain of security companies, ADM Security Services has a branch in Richmond providing service for events, meetings, and film and photo shoots throughout the region. A team specializing in comprehensive security strategies, ADM Security Solutions can design a protection plan to keep your property and possessions safe and secure.
Pros and Cons of Filming in Richmond
Richmond is an incredible city with many attractions and activities drawing people to visit throughout every season of the year. Still, even with its many benefits, there are both positives and negatives to doing some filming in Richmond.
Advantages
- Thriving arts scene
For those with a true love of the arts, Richmond is sure to delight and inspire. The city is filled with many incredible art galleries and museums, offering an excellent selection of some of the finest works of art representing countries from all across the globe.
- Incredible restaurants
Those who live and work in Richmond love to eat. There are many excellent restaurants here providing you with many opportunities to sample a diverse sampling of cuisines ranging from Thai, Chinese, Japanese, and Italian to French, Spanish, classic American, and even fast-food fare.
- Ideally situated
Nestled within the Virginia countryside, Richmond is a well-situated city with only a short drive separating you from some of the best attractions the city has to offer.
Disadvantages
- Poor driving conditions
Unfortunately, Richmond drivers are not known for their etiquette or expertise. Cars frequently travel in the bike lane and crosswalk laws are rarely observed. You’ll need to keep your wits about you when driving in this city.
- High crime rate
Though Richmond’s crime rate is not excessive when compared to other large urban centers like New York City, Miami, and Los Angeles, the city does have a crime rate that is higher than the national average.
- Expensive cost of living
Unfortunately, the cost-of-living expenses found in Richmond are considered to be rather high.
Famous Locations in Richmond
- Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
For those with a true appreciation for the arts, a visit to the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts is a rare treat. An art gallery that contains one of the most impressive collections of art in the world, you will find pieces here from such well-known artists as Matisse, Picasso, and Braque.
- Maymont
Maymont is a spacious estate that was bequeathed to the city of Richmond upon the passing of James and Sallie Dooley. Constructed in the 1890s, the Dooleys made Maymont their home until the year 1925. Among the attractions found on this property are the mansion, an arboretum, a 100-acre recreational area, gardens, a petting farm, and a collection of carriages.
- Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden
For a truly invigorating day in the great outdoors, why not plan a trip to the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden? A facility that includes an interactive children’s garden as well as the CWDKids Tree House, and a stunningly beautiful Conservatory, there is something for the entire family to enjoy at this picturesque Richmond attraction.
