Embark on a journey through Nanjing, a historical city with a rich cultural heritage. In this filming in Nanjing guide, we will explore various aspects of film production, such as location scouting, securing production resources, and more, making sure your filming adventure in Nanjing is memorable and efficient.
Film Production Resources in Nanjing
Production resources in Nanjing are generally poor. Camera crews and talents are quite limited, and typical work hours for film crews are 10 hours, excluding meal breaks. In Nanjing, you can find professional directors, cameramen/videographers, producers, makeup/hair artists, and location managers. However, it’s advisable to bring in crews from nearby cities such as Shanghai, Beijing, or Shenzhen for roles like soundmen, fixers, assistant directors, video crews, cinematographers/DOPs, photographers, prop specialists, and pet trainers. Bilingual film crews in Nanjing are quite rare.
There is a few photo studios in Nanjing that’s capable of hosting video and photo shoots. Pre-built set studios are also quite popular in Nanjing for products and lifestyle shoots.
Film crew and production insurance coverage can be provided upon request.
Visas
If you are coming to Nanjing for filming or production, you should consider applying for a business visa or Journalist / work visa, as you are technically working in the city. A tourist visa is acceptable but not ideal.
Carnet/ATA Carnet
Bringing equipment, cameras, and lens gear to Nanjing from abroad is possible via Carnet/ATA Carnet. However, you might still be stopped by customs, so always verify before arriving in Nanjing.
Equipment Rental Options
Equipment rental options in Nanjing are limited. Check prices and availability to decide whether renting equipment is more convenient than bringing your own.
Post-Production
The post-production resources in Nanjing are poor. If you require online/offline editing, color correction, or sound post-production, it’s wise to do some research before making your decision. There are several photo studios and film studios in Nanjing.
Location Conditions and Permit Requirements
To apply for location access in Nanjing, you need to find out if the site is owned by the government or private owners. Accessing privately-owned locations is usually easier and often depends on payment. Location charges vary based on the area and production timing.
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 permitted.
Famous Locations in Nanjing
Notable locations in Nanjing include the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, the Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum, and the Nanjing Museum.
Equipment Rental
Nanjing offers high-end camera equipment such as Arri and Red, as well as upscale lens options like Angenieux, Cooke, Arri, and Zeiss. Grip and lighting equipment can be found, but the selection may be limited.
Seasons, Weather, and Air Pollution
Nanjing experiences a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and cool winters. The city receives significant rainfall, especially during the summer months. Air pollution in Nanjing can be moderate to high, so monitor the air quality index before filming.
Drone Usage
You cannot fly a drone within Nanjing’s city center area, and certain areas require a pilot’s license to operate, with height restrictions also enforced.
Currency
In Nanjing, RMB is the only accepted currency. Digital payments, such as Alipay and WeChat Pay, are widely used.
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.
Transportation
Nanjing is served by one major airport, Nanjing Lukou International Airport. The city also has a central train station, Nanjing 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.