Xiamen, a vibrant coastal city, provides a unique backdrop for film production. In this filming in Xiamen guide, we will discuss various aspects of production, such as location scouting, securing production resources, and more, ensuring your filming experience in Xiamen is both enjoyable and efficient.
Production Resources in Xiamen
Production resources in Xiamen 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 Xiamen, you can find professional directors, cameramen/videographers, and producers. 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 Shanghai, Beijing, or Shenzhen.
Upon request, film crew and production insurance coverage can be provided.
Visas
For filming or production purposes in Xiamen, 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 Xiamen from abroad can be done using Carnet/ATA Carnet. Nonetheless, customs might still stop you, so always verify before arriving in Xiamen.
Equipment Rental Options
Equipment rental choices in Xiamen are limited. Assess prices and availability to decide whether renting equipment is more convenient than bringing your own.
Post-Production
Xiamen’s post-production resources are moderate. If you require online/offline editing, color correction, or sound post-production, it is possible in Xiamen. However, it’s wise to do some research before making your decision.
Numerous photo studios and film studios are available in Xiamen.
Location Conditions and Permit Requirements
When applying for location access in Xiamen, 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 Xiamen
Notable locations in Xiamen include Gulangyu Island, Hulishan Fortress, and South Putuo Temple.
Equipment Rental
Xiamen offers high-end camera equipment like Arri and Red, as well as upscale lens options such as Angenieux, Cooke, Arri, and Zeiss. Grip and lighting equipment can be found, but the selection may be limited.
Seasons, Weather, and Air Pollution
Xiamen experiences a humid subtropical climate with mild winters and hot, rainy summers. The city generally has moderate air pollution levels but monitor the air quality index before filming.
Drone Usage
Drone use is prohibited within Xiamen’s city center area, and specific areas require a pilot’s license to operate, with height restrictions also enforced.
Currency
In Xiamen, 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.
Transportation
Xiamen is served by one major airport, Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport. The city also has several train stations, including Xiamen Railway Station and Xiamen North 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.