About Yonkers
Yonkers is a city in Westchester County, New York, and an inner suburb of New York City. The 2020 census recorded the population at 211,600. The distance between the Northernmost point of Manhattan and Yonkers is two miles. Yonkers was a part of the original 24,000-acre Dutch land grant of 1645. A beneficiary of this grant established a sawmill at the confluence of the Hudson and the then-named Nepperhan Rivers. Today, the Nepperhan is known as the Sawmill River.
The growth of Yonkers was established by the growth of industry. In addition to the sawmill, manufacturing expanded to carpet and textiles. The Otis Elevator Company invented and produced the country’s first safety elevator in Yonkers. During World War II, these factories were repurposed for the mass production of tanks, blankets, and tents in support of the war effort.
In later decades as the manufacturing industry waned in the Northeast, Yonkers became known as the area of residential neighborhoods through gentrification. These neighborhoods and the enclave of communities, together with the retail support services, became the destination of those working in the city but did not want to live there.
The rail infrastructure that once supported manufacturing now serves as a commuter rail to New York City and its boroughs. In Yonkers, only 27% of the population owns a car. Today, the neighborhoods reflect the architecture and the flavor of the local businesses owned by multi-ethnic residents.
Video Shoot Location Options in Yonkers
The video shoot options in Yonkers show the diversity within the city and its enclave communities. The venues range from the Colonial-style brick mansions on the riverfront to the trendy loft spaces. The backdrop scenes are stately and urban. There are areas that have escaped gentrification.
- Video Production
The services and equipment rental for a video shoot are located near and serve Yonkers. The services include pre-and post-production, lighting, set design, and compositing either in a studio or remote locations. With a turnkey provider, the studio and equipment rental can be expanded to include the cast and crew, and the technology for lighting, sound, and editing.
- Catering
The catering company you choose to serve on location, whether on a set stage or remote, needs to be flexible in menu options and service. The catering staff needs to be able to react to changes in the time schedule that could affect the serving mode. The food service will be the most remembered, and the most scrutinized, of all the services supporting the set.
- Permitting
The Mayor’s Office of Film and Photography is responsible for approving the application package and the issuance of the permit. The application process typically takes seven days, assuming that all insurance coverages are in place and there are no special circumstances involved.
Video Shoot Location Companies Serving Yonkers
Because of the structure of the state’s tax incentive program for production, it is most beneficial for the project’s budget for pre-and post-production services to take place within the state of New York. Due to the proximity of Yonkers to New York City, you will find plenty of video shoot locations in Yonkers.
- Product Central
This New York City-based company can be turnkey to all support services to a video shoot. Product Central has the resources to provide all pre-and post-production support by way of crews, stage managers, and equipment. The set can be one of its studios available for rent or remote.
- Westchester Drone Ops
This service provider offers more than ariel photography. Westchester Drone Ops has the in-house talent for consultations in branding, capturing for web content, and graphic design. Experienced drone pilots, videographers, and equipment can make possible any seemingly impossible shot.
- Scarborough Fair Catering
Since 1987, this locally owned catering company in Yonkers has earned the reputation of specialized service and planning for any sized event. The menu options are inspired by the tone and the occasion. Scarborough Fair can plan and serve a video shoot location particular to the budget and schedule.
Pros and Cons of Video Shoot Locations in Yonkers
The perception of the positives and the negatives can be mitigated when the project is viewed from the whole. Assuming no extenuating or specific circumstances arise, there should not be one aspect that is mutually exclusive. Well-rounded information is essential to an informed decision. Read up on the pros and cons before finalizing your plans for a video shoot location in Yonkers.
Advantages
- Transportation
The rail infrastructure serving yesterday’s manufacturing industry serves the commuters of today. The distance between New York City and Yonkers is 15 miles, which is about a 30-minute train ride or a 20-minute car ride.
- Proximity to New York City
The products and service amenities available in New York City can serve a video shoot location in Yonkers. The scenes for a video shoot could be particular to both Yonkers and Manhattan from one location.
- New York State Film Production Tax Credit Program
Under New York’s current Governor, this program has been extended through 2029. Presently, the program grants a 25% tax credit for qualified expenses of production, and a 25% tax credit on post-production expenses if these services are performed in New York City.
Disadvantages
- Climate
As with locations in the Northeast, there is a short season to film outdoor scenes. The average high in the Winter months is 45°F. The storm season occurs in September through October when the nor’easters are prevalent due to the lowered temperatures of the water and air.
- Competition
The limited availability of studios will make for a tight market and higher prices. The achievement of the most value of the tax incentives will also be a challenge given the local post-production requirement.
- Location specific
The video locations offered in Yonkers will not be accommodating to all projects. The scenes and the backdrop will need the views of a typical New York suburb which may include the famous skyline.
Famous Locations in Yonkers
- Hudson River Museum
This museum is a combination of exhibits and artifacts of art, science, and history. The Hudson River Museum is housed in the 1877 Glenview Mansion, which is on the National Register. Covering the science area, the planetarium shows are for every age and interest level. The art exhibits cover all genres ranging from landscapes to portraits and to the abstract.
- Ridge Hill
Opened in 2011, Ridge Hill is considered the town square of Yonkers complete with national retailers, a village green, and play sculptures for children. This town square concept is inviting to both residents and tourists. The energy of Ridge Hill transforms the initial perception of Yonkers as not being a place to visit.
- The Science Barge
Moored on the Hudson River, The Science Barge is the product of Groundwork Hudson Valley. This youth-oriented program focuses on educating residents and visitors on the sustainability of energy and food. This off-the-grid specialty center is completely powered by biofuels, wind turbines, and solar panels.
