You’ve got the idea, the script, the plan, and basically everything else ready to go, but now you’re in need of a space to film. How do you find the right studio?
First, what kind of production requires a studio? You can learn more about what different types of productions are best shot within a studio here and why you want to make sure you’re booking the right studio for them.
Finding the right studio is easy when you know what to look for. You’ll need some information before you book the studio and make that first deposit. Every production is different. From who will be on set to what kind of set and lighting you’ll need to what kind of spaces you need for your crew to work, you need to gather as much information on the studio as possible so that you can make the right decision on which one you should be booking for your next production.
C&I Studios is committed to making sure that everyone has access to great studio spaces for their production needs. We know that finding the right studio is essential to making your production a success. So, with that being said, let’s take a look at what you need to know in order to book the right space for your next production.
Here are some important questions to ask the studio you’re considering to book:
“How much does it cost?”
This is probably the most important question. You need to be sure that you’re getting what you’re paying for, and that the studio is within your budget. Of course, some studios might be way out of your budget, so you’ll want to be able to rule them out if you have a limited amount of money you can spend on this part of the production.
On the other hand, too cheap of a studio might sound like a great idea in order to stay below budget, but you’ll want to be wary of any hidden fees or if they’re lacking any equipment or features that you require for your production.
“How long do we have access to the studio?”
Depending on if you need to build an elaborate set or just set up a quick background, you should know how much time you’ll have to do that as well as the right amount of time you need to shoot your film.
“What is included in the price?”
Make sure to find out what is included in the studio rental fee. This can vary from studio to studio, so you’ll want to be sure that you’re not being charged for things that you won’t be using.
You’ll want to check on available props, if you need them or if you need to bring your own.
”What is the size of the studio?”
The size of the studio will determine how much space you have to work with, and what kind of set-ups you can have. If you’re planning on a large set-up, then you’ll need to make sure that the studio can accommodate your needs.
If you need to build your own set, you’ll need to know how much space you have to create it. You want to make sure that your team will be able to work around each other with ease.
If you’re not sure how to rent enough space to work in, you can read more here.
“What kind of lighting is available?”
Lighting is a key element in any production, so you’ll want to make sure that the studio has the right kind of lighting for your needs.
Lighting makes all the difference in a production. With a well-lit production, you won’t have to spend as much time and money on post-production editing, which can be very expensive. It’s easier to light the studio than to edit the footage later!
“What is the studio’s capacity?”
This question is important because you want to make sure you’re not breaking any rules or getting the studio itself in trouble with local ordinances. If you end up liking the studio’s set up, you want to make sure that you’ll be invited back at a later date for your next project!
You need to know how many people can be in the studio at one time, and if there are any restrictions on noise levels or hours of operation that you need to adhere to.
“Do you have insurance?”
This is an important question for two reasons: first, because you want to be sure that your equipment is covered in case of any accidents. Second, because you don’t want to be held liable for any damages that might occur during your shoot. Make sure that you’re covered, and that the studio has its own insurance as well.
“What is the cancellation policy?”
Life happens, and sometimes productions have to be canceled. You’ll want to know what the studio’s policy is on cancellations, in case you need to cancel or reschedule your shoot.
You might also want to look into alternative dates that the studio might be available in case you need to reschedule the dates if your production ends up needing more time.
“Is there a green room?”
A green room is a space where actors, models, and sometimes crew can relax and prepare for their scenes. It’s important to have a separate space for this so that the talent doesn’t feel like they’re in the way.
“What kind of space is available for hair and makeup crews?”
Hair and makeup are an important part of any production, so you’ll want to make sure that there is enough space for them to work in.
Some studios will have specific spots set up with vanities for hair and makeup crews to work in, so that they’re out of the way from the rest of the production. If you require this, then you want to make sure that the studio you’re booking has this specific space.
“What is the studio’s policy on food and drink?”
Some studios have a strict no-food-or-drink policy, while others are more relaxed about it. It’s important to know what the policy is so that you can plan accordingly.
Depending on your production, you may also need to inquire about alcohol policies. Most studios won’t allow it, especially if there are minors involved in the production, but it’s important to have that information so that everyone involved in the production can follow the studio’s policies, as well as local laws.
“What is the studio’s policy on smoking?”
Smoking is not allowed in most studios as it will damage the equipment, but it’s important to check with the studio beforehand to be sure. They might have designated spaces for such activities outside or be willing to accommodate and create the space on demand, if it’s important to your crew.
“Is there Wi-Fi available?”
Wi-Fi is becoming increasingly common in studios, but it’s still important to check beforehand. You don’t want your production to be interrupted because there’s no Wi-Fi available. Wi-Fi is important for open communication between crews and talent, as well as for any video or audio files that need to be transferred quickly.
“Is there parking available?”
This is an important question to ask, especially if you’re having a large production. You need to know if there is enough parking for everyone involved and if there are any restrictions on parking.
“Is there a studio manager onsite?”
A studio manager is someone who is responsible for the studio and its equipment. They can be a valuable resource if you have any questions or problems during your production.
“What kind of audio equipment is available?”
Audio is just as important as video, so you’ll want to make sure that the studio has the right kind of audio equipment for your needs.
“Do you have any references?”
It’s always a good idea to ask for references from previous clients. This will give you an idea of what others have thought of the studio and their experience with them.
You can check out their website and portfolios ahead of time to get a good idea of what’s been created in their studio, but it’s always good to ask them yourself as well!
“Do you have any discounts or promotions?”
Many studios offer discounts or promotions, so it’s always worth asking about them! You might be able to get a lower rate if you book during off-peak hours, or if you book multiple days.
Some studios also offer membership programs that can give you access to discounts and promotions. If you’re a frequent studio user, it’s worth looking into these programs, especially if you know you’re going to be in need of a studio more than once.
“Is there anything else I need to know?”
This is an important question to ask because it allows the studio staff to share any other important information that you might need to know. It also shows that you’re interested in learning more about the studio and what they can offer you.
If you’re looking for a studio…
You’ve already stumbled upon a company that has several studios throughout the United States! C&I Studios is ready, willing, and able to host your company’s production in any of our locations.
We have a studio to accommodate any size production you might have. We have a wide variety of audio and video equipment available, as well as a studio manager onsite at each location to help you with anything you need.
You can check out everything we offer with our studio rentals here.
Now You’re Really Ready!
Now that you have these questions, you’re ready to start booking a studio! Following these questions will help give you a better understanding of the studio you want to rent and what they can provide for your production.
If you have any other questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re always happy to help! You can contact C&I Studios any time!