Are you planning your filming in Beijing? We put up a brief summary for filming in Beijing, so that you can have a general idea of what you should be aware of before your trip.
Production Resources in Beijing:
- Camera Crews: Availability is limited. Consider bringing in crews from nearby cities like Shanghai or Shenzhen.
- Talents: Availability is limited. Consider casting online or through agencies.
- Typical Work Hours: 10 hours per day, excluding meal breaks.
- Professional Crews:
- Director
- Cameraman/Videographer
- Producer
- Makeup/Hair
- Location Manager
- Film Crew/Production Insurance: Available upon request.
Visas:
- Business visa or work visa recommended for filming projects.
- Tourist visa may be possible, but not ideal.
Carnet/ATA Carnet:
- Bringing equipment/camera/lens gear via Carnet/ATA Carnet is possible, but be prepared for possible delays at customs.
- Check regulations before arriving in Beijing.
Equipment Rental House:
- Limited options available.
- Consider renting instead of bringing equipment, depending on price and availability.
Post Production:
- Limited resources available.
- Research options before making decisions.
Photo Studios and Film Studios:
- Many available in Beijing.
- Research options to find the best fit for your project.
Location Conditions:
- Government-owned locations require more paperwork and permits.
- Private owners are more flexible and often charge based on production time and location.
- Shooting in public areas without a permit is illegal.
Famous Locations in Beijing:
- Great Wall of China
- Forbidden City
- Tiananmen Square
- Temple of Heaven
- Summer Palace
Equipment Rental:
- High-end camera equipment available (Arri, Red)
- High-end lens options available (Angenieux, Cooke, Arri, Zeiss)
- Grip and lighting equipment readily available
Seasons:
- Spring (March-May): Pleasant weather with occasional rain.
- Summer (June-August): Hot and humid with frequent rain showers.
- Autumn (September-November): Mild weather with clear skies.
- Winter (December-February): Cold and dry with occasional snow.
Drone Usage:
- Restricted in certain areas and requires a pilot license.
- Height restrictions apply.
- May be prohibited during festivals and events.
Money:
- Only RMB accepted.
- Prepare cash and use Alipay/Wechat Pay for digital payments.
Hotel Cost:
- Budget: 100 USD per night
- Mid-range: 150 USD per night
- Luxury: 200 USD per night
Meal/Per Diem Cost:
- Budget: 10 USD per day
- Mid-range: 20 USD per day
- Luxury: 50 USD per day
Transportation:
- Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK)
- Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX)
- Numerous train stations
- Vans and lorries commonly used for production (150-200 USD per day with driver)
- Didi/Meituan (Chinese Uber/Lyft) available for smaller productions
Additional Tips:
- Learn basic Mandarin phrases.
- Be patient and prepared for delays.
- Negotiate prices for everything.
- Hire a local fixer to assist with logistics and permits.
Overall:
Filming in Beijing can be challenging, but with careful planning and preparation, it can be a rewarding experience. By following these guidelines and tips, you can ensure that your project is successful.