Embark on a cinematic journey in the vibrant city of Guangzhou, known for its modern architecture and fascinating cultural scene. This filming in Guangzhou guide will provide you with essential information on production resources, location scouting, permits, and more to make your filming experience as smooth as possible.
Guangzhou Production Resources and Insights
Production resources in Guangzhou are rich. Camera crews and talents are quite abundant, with typical work hours for film crews being 10 hours, excluding meal breaks. In Guangzhou, you can find professional directors, cameramen/videographers, producers, makeup/hair artists, and location managers. Moreover, the city offers soundmen/sound, fixers, assistant directors, video crews, cinematographers/DOPs, photographers, and prop specialists.
Film crew and production insurance coverage can be provided upon request.
Visa Considerations for Filming in Guangzhou
If you are coming to Guangzhou for filming or production, you should consider applying for a business visa or work visa, as you are technically working in the city. A tourist visa is acceptable but not ideal.
Carnet/ATA Carnet Information
Bringing equipment, cameras, and lens gear to Guangzhou from abroad is now possible via Carnet/ATA Carnet. However, there is still a chance that you get stopped by customs, so always check before you arrive in Guangzhou.
Equipment Rental Options in Guangzhou
There are various options available for equipment rental in Guangzhou. You should check the prices and see if it’s easier to rent instead of bringing in equipment.
Post-Production Services in Guangzhou
The post-production resources in Guangzhou are abundant. If you need to do online/offline editing, color correction, or sound post-production in Guangzhou, it is possible. However, it’s wise to do some research before you make your decision.
There are many photo studios and film studios in Guangzhou.
Location Access and Permit Requirements in Guangzhou
To apply for location access in Guangzhou, you need to find out if the site is owned by the government or private owners. Usually, it’s easier to access privately-owned locations, and it’s about the payment. The costs vary depending on the time of production, and location charges depend on the area.
Shooting in public areas is technically illegal, but vlogging with phones or small cameras is usually acceptable.
Filming in public spaces without a permit is not allowed.
Iconic Locations to Film in Guangzhou
Notable locations in Guangzhou include the Canton Tower, the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall, and the Temple of the Six Banyan Trees.
Guangzhou Equipment Rentals
Guangzhou offers high-end camera equipment such as Arri and Red, as well as high-end lens options like Angenieux, Cooke, Arri, and Zeiss. Grip and lighting equipment are also quite plentiful.
Climate, Weather, and Air Pollution in Guangzhou
Guangzhou has a humid subtropical climate with hot, humid summers and mild winters. The city experiences significant rainfall, especially during the summer months. Air pollution in Guangzhou can range from moderate to high, so monitor the air quality index before filming. Daylight hours vary depending on the season.
Drone Regulations in Guangzhou
You cannot fly a drone within Guangzhou’s city center area, and certain areas require a pilot’s license to operate, with height restrictions also enforced.
Currency and Payment Options in Guangzhou
In Guangzhou, RMB is the only accepted currency. Digital payments, such as Alipay and WeChat Pay, are widely used.
Accommodation and Meal Costs for Filming in Guangzhou
Hotel costs range from 100 USD to 200 USD per night, while meal expenses can vary between 10 USD to 50 USD per day, depending on the type of food.
Transportation Options for Filming in Guangzhou
Guangzhou is served by one major airport, Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport. The city also has several railway stations, including Guangzhou Railway Station and Guangzhou South Railway Station. For production purposes, it’s common to hire vans or lorries, with a 5-seat car/van and driver costing 150 USD to 200 USD per day. Smaller productions can use Didi or Meituan, the Chinese equivalents of Uber and Lyft.