A new client hires you and it’s exciting. You are eager to create the best content possible. The production process isn’t anything new, but there’s one caveat: this time around the production won’t take place at the typical corporate office or at a private residence. The scope of the project calls for booking a studio with a cyclorama wall and a considerably larger space if needing to build a set.
During the first pre-production meeting, there’s an aura of anxiety since no one has first-hand experience booking a studio. As a result, you do your due diligence. You seek out the studio that best suits your needs and it’s time to make a move and book the space.
Here are 10 questions and answers to help you make your next studio rental easy!
#1. Can sets be built in the studio?
Studios come in all sizes. One with a smaller footprint would not offer the square footage needed to build the desired set you need. However, if there’s ample space your production designer will be able to build out what’s needed. You’ll want to ask about build/prep rates as well as rates on any in-house power tools you will need for the construction of the sets when booking a video studio.
#2. Does the studio have a cyc wall? Is it green or white?
A cyc wall is typically the focal point of a studio, and most facilities will have it painted white or green. The information you’ll want to find out is what the cost is for repainting the cyc. Shoes tarnish the ground regardless of how careful a crew is. More often than not, you’ll want a fresh coat of paint. Don’t forget to ask if the studio supplies RAM Board and booties/shoe covers to protect the floor.
#3. Is the cyc pre-lit?
Some studios’ cycs are already pre-lit, while others will require your production to rig the lighting during the shoot day or during a pre-light day. In any case, find out what the cost is for pre-lighting. A half day can offset the cost of shoot day overtime pay for the crew and studio. Also, be sure to find out the kind of electrical outlets that are on the grid for powering lights, scissor lift, etc.
#4. What are the dimensions of the space and accessibility?
The studio website should provide a downloadable PDF with the specifics on width, length, and height as well as any other amenities. Be sure to ask for more details if you have further questions. Additionally, you’ll want to find out about the access point to load in and parking availability; most studios will have a roll-up door or sliding door in the back. This is important if you’re loading in vehicles, boats, large items, or inviting Sasquatch to the shoot.
#5. Is the studio soundproofed?
Recording clean sound for production is an important aspect of a project. Be sure to find out how much soundproofing the studio has. Ask what kind of external noises occur throughout the day. If in a neighborhood with undesirable weekday noise, consider booking the studio on a weekend.
#6. How much electrical power does the studio have?
Smaller studios offer 20A Edison outlets, meanwhile larger spaces offer single-phase or three-phase power. As a result, this allows your production to use higher amperage lighting fixtures. Aside from consulting with the studio, open the discussion with your DP and gaffer as to what your electrical needs are going to be. Knowing this information before booking a video studio will help you prepare best for the shoot day.
#7. Does the studio rent camera/grip/lighting equipment?
Depending on the studio, equipment inventory will vary from none to full service. Your production will want to ask for rates on the equipment you may be needing and if there are any deals available. Price breaks are often offered if you bundle services together. If the studio doesn’t have equipment, ask for referrals to a local rental house.
#8. What is the cost for the day? How much is overtime?
The length of a rental day is typically 10 hours. Consequently, the studio will generally bill hourly for overtime past that time frame. If your production only needs a half day, ask about the half day rate. Ask what is included in the rental. Especially relevant is a scissor lift, basic electrical distribution, chairs, folding tables, etc. If you’re doing a photo shoot, be sure to ask if there’s a lower rate for that type of project.
#9. What are the rates for additional rooms at the studio?
Often times, the studio you’ll be shooting at is a working environment with editing suites, conference rooms, offices, green rooms, etc. Therefore, if your production will be needing these spaces be sure to ask for rates on the rooms and availability.
#10. Does the studio require general liability insurance?
Insurance is an important asset to have on hand when working in production. It covers property damages and losses for starters. When it comes to booking a video studio it’s no different. The studio is a working environment with people and equipment. The potential for injury and/or damage is possible. Insurance is needed to complete the rental agreement in order to cover any incidents that may occur during a shoot.
Bonus Question: What are the best restaurants to order from?
If your production will be ordering lunch from a local restaurant, ask the studio manager what the most popular eateries are and if there are any discounts given by these vendors. We all know a well-fed crew is a happy crew.
Now you know what to ask when booking a video studio. Are you ready to visit the Mac House studio? For a tour, rates, and availability contact us at rentals@machouse.com or (408) 837-1706. We can’t wait to see the creative content you produce in our space!
