Chengdu, a city rich in culture and history, offers a unique setting for film production. In this filming in Chengdu guide, we will detail various aspects of production, including location scouting, securing production resources, and more, ensuring your filming experience in Chengdu is both enjoyable and efficient.
Production Resources in Chengdu
In general, production resources in Chengdu are moderate. The availability of camera crews and talents is quite limited, and typical work hours for film crews are 10 hours, excluding meal breaks. In Chengdu, you can find professional directors, cameramen/videographers, and producers. There are bilingual cameraman/DP, and fixers available too.
Makeup/hair artists and location managers are also accessible. However, for roles like soundmen, fixers, assistant directors, video crews, cinematographers/DOPs, photographers, prop specialists, and pet trainers, it is advisable to bring in crews from nearby cities such as Beijing or Shenzhen.
Upon request, film crew and production insurance coverage can be provided.
Visas
For filming or production purposes in Chengdu, it is recommended to apply for a business or work visa, as you will technically be working in the city. A tourist visa may suffice but is not the ideal choice.
Carnet/ATA Carnet
Importing equipment, cameras, and lens gear to Chengdu from abroad can be done using Carnet/ATA Carnet. Nonetheless, customs might still stop you, so always verify before arriving in Chengdu.
Equipment Rental Options
Equipment rental choices in Chengdu are limited.
Chengdu offers high-end camera equipment like Arri and Red, Sony and Canon are available too, as well as upscale lens options such as Angenieux, Cooke, Arri, and Zeiss, Sony Gmaster series, . Grip and lighting equipment can be found, but the selection may be limited.
If you are looking for very niche cinema lens, you should consider bring them from your own country or rent it from big cities like Shanghai, Or Beijing.
Assess prices and availability to decide whether renting equipment is more convenient than bringing your own.
Post-Production
Chengdu’s post-production resources are moderate. If you require online/offline editing, color correction, or sound post-production, it is possible in Chengdu. However, it’s wise to do some research before making your decision.
Numerous photo studios and film studios are available in Chengdu.
Location Conditions and Permit Requirements
When applying for location access in Chengdu, identify whether the site is government-owned or privately owned. Accessing privately owned locations is generally simpler and often depends on payment. Location charges vary based on the area and production timing.
Shooting in public areas is technically prohibited, but vlogging with phones or small cameras is usually acceptable. Filming in public spaces without a permit is not permitted.
Famous Locations in Chengdu
Notable locations in Chengdu include Kuanzhai Alley, Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, and Wuhou Memorial Temple.
Seasons, Weather, and Air Pollution
Chengdu experiences a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. The city is known for its high humidity and overcast conditions, with frequent rain and fog. Snow is rare, and air pollution can be a concern, so monitor the air quality index before filming.
Drone Usage
Drone use is prohibited within Chengdu’s city center area, and specific areas require a pilot’s license to operate, with height restrictions also enforced.
Currency
In Chengdu, RMB is the only accepted currency. Digital payments, such as Alipay and WeChat Pay, are widely adopted.
Hotel and Meal Costs
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.
Chengdu is renowned for its numbing peppers and hot pot. Please be aware that if you are not accustomed to spicy food, as it is considered one of the spiciest places in China. However, there are plenty of food options available that are not spicy.
Transportation
Chengdu is served by one major airport, Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport. The city also has several train stations, including Chengdu Railway Station and Chengdu East 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.