Switzerland

Filming Facility:

General Information About Filming in Switzerland

The media industry in Switzerland is quite diverse and includes a range of print, broadcast, and digital media outlets. Some of the largest media companies in Switzerland are Ringier AG, NZZ-Mediengruppe, and Tamedia AG. Swiss media is known for being independent and unbiased, and Switzerland ranks highly in press freedom indexes.

The photo, video, TV, and film industry in Switzerland is also well-established and highly regarded. Switzerland has a long history of filmmaking, with notable directors such as Jean-Luc Godard and Markus Imhoof hailing from the country. The Swiss Film Academy promotes and supports the development of the Swiss film industry, and many film festivals take place in Switzerland each year. The TV industry in Switzerland is also strong, with a range of domestic channels as well as access to international channels through cable and satellite providers. Overall, the media and photo, video, TV, and film industries in Switzerland are well-developed and highly respected.

World Production Service is your trusted production resource for all your photo, video, documentary, TV and film production needs, anywhere in the world. Our comprehensive range of services covers every aspect of production, from conceptualization to post-production, for both factual and branded content, ensuring a seamless experience for our clients. With extensive experience in producing all types of projects, including corporate videos, photography, documentaries, TV shows, and film productions, we are committed to providing top-quality visual content that exceeds your expectations.

With our strong presence in Switzerland and a wide network of professional photo and film crew, we are well-equipped to cater to your production requirements in the region. Whether you require a full-service production or just a fraction of it, we offer end-to-end solutions starting from scratch or support your shoot in Switzerland. Choose World Production Service for a successful production experience, every time.

World Production Service offers a diverse range of production services, including but not limited to: film production service, video production service, photo production service, documentary production service, TV production service, production service, TV commercial production service, branded video production service, and local production support service in Switzerland. Our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to providing exceptional quality and ensuring that your production needs are met with precision and care. No matter what your production requirements may be, you can rely on World Production Service to deliver outstanding results and unparalleled support throughout the entire production process in Switzerland.

Weather in Switzerland

Switzerland has a temperate climate, with four distinct seasons. However, due to the country’s location in the mountains, the climate can vary significantly depending on the altitude and region.

In general, summers in Switzerland are mild and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Winters can be quite cold, with average temperatures ranging from -2°C to 7°C (28°F to 45°F), and significant snowfall in the higher elevations.

The best filming seasons in Switzerland will depend on the specific needs of the project. For outdoor shoots, the summer months of June through September typically offer the most favorable weather conditions, with warm temperatures and longer daylight hours. However, the mountain regions may be more crowded with tourists during this time.

For winter sports or snow-related shoots, the winter months of December through March may be best, though be aware of the colder temperatures and shorter daylight hours. The spring and fall months may also offer favorable weather conditions, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery as the trees change colors in the fall or blossom in the spring. Ultimately, the best filming season in Switzerland will depend on the project’s specific needs and goals.

Locations in Switzerland

Switzerland is home to many beautiful and unique filming locations, ranging from picturesque mountain villages to modern cities. Here are some of the best filming locations in Switzerland:

The Swiss Alps
The stunning mountain landscapes of the Swiss Alps offer a spectacular backdrop for any film project.

Lucerne
This beautiful city in central Switzerland boasts a picturesque Old Town and a stunning lakefront.

Zurich
Switzerland’s largest city offers a blend of modern and traditional architecture and a vibrant cultural scene.

Geneva
This international city on the shores of Lake Geneva offers stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.

Interlaken
This charming village in the Bernese Oberland region is situated between two lakes and offers access to some of Switzerland’s most beautiful mountain scenery.

Lauterbrunnen Valley
The Lauterbrunnen Valley is a stunning glacial valley surrounded by towering cliffs and waterfalls.

Zermatt
This mountain resort town is located at the foot of the Matterhorn, one of the most iconic peaks in the Swiss Alps.

Lake Geneva
The shores of Lake Geneva offer a beautiful and serene setting for any film project.

Gruyères
This medieval town in western Switzerland offers a charming and historic atmosphere, with its cobbled streets and castle.

Bern
Switzerland’s capital city boasts a beautiful Old Town and many historic landmarks, including the famous Zytglogge clock tower.

Studio Rental and Film Backlots in Switzerland

Switzerland offers a range of photo, video, TV, and film studios for rental, as well as several film backlots. Here are some of the top options:

Studio SRF
Located in Zurich, Studio SRF offers state-of-the-art TV and film production facilities, including three studios and a sound stage.

TPC Studios
Also located in Zurich, TPC Studios offers several sound stages and a range of production facilities for TV and film projects.

Film Studio Basel
This studio in Basel offers several sound stages and production facilities for TV and film projects.

Studio Filmfabrik
Located in the city of Lucerne, Studio Filmfabrik offers a range of production facilities for TV and film projects.

Babelsberg Switzerland
This film backlot in the town of Rapperswil-Jona offers a range of historic and modern sets for film and TV productions.

Medienpark
Located in the town of Pratteln, Medienpark offers a range of studios and facilities for TV and film projects.

RSI Radiotelevisione svizzera
This public broadcasting company in Lugano offers several production studios and facilities for TV and film projects.

Geneva Film Studios
Located in Geneva, this studio offers several sound stages and production facilities for TV and film projects.

Overall, Switzerland offers a range of options for photo, video, TV, and film productions, with modern facilities and stunning natural scenery to choose from.

Advanced Filming Cities in Switzerland

Switzerland has several cities with advanced photo, video, TV, and film facilities. Here are some of the top cities in Switzerland for film production:

Zurich
Zurich is the largest city in Switzerland and is home to several film studios, production companies, and post-production facilities. It is a major hub for the Swiss film industry.

Geneva
Geneva is a hub for international organizations, including the United Nations, and has a thriving media industry. It is home to several TV and film production companies and post-production facilities.

Basel
Basel is a major economic and cultural center in Switzerland, and has several TV and film production companies as well as post-production facilities.

Lausanne
Lausanne is a vibrant university town with a growing media industry. It is home to several TV and film production companies, as well as a film festival.

Lucerne
Lucerne is a picturesque city with several TV and film production companies, as well as a range of post-production facilities.

Bern
Bern is the capital city of Switzerland and has a growing media industry. It is home to several TV and film production companies, as well as post-production facilities.

Overall, Zurich and Geneva are the two cities in Switzerland with the most advanced photo, video, TV, and film facilities, but other cities such as Basel, Lausanne, Lucerne, and Bern also offer a range of options for film production.

Past Productions in Switzerland

Switzerland has a rich film history and has produced many notable films over the years. Here are some examples of Swiss films that have gained critical acclaim:

Journey to Switzerland (1951) – This film by director Jean-Paul Roux tells the story of an American tourist’s journey through Switzerland and is considered a classic of Swiss cinema.

The Boat is Full (1981) – This drama by Markus Imhoof tells the story of a group of refugees seeking asylum in Switzerland during World War II and was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film.

Requiem (1995) – This psychological drama by director Alain Tanner tells the story of a young woman struggling to find her place in society and was awarded the Grand Prize at the Montreal World Film Festival.

Vitus (2006) – This drama by director Fredi M. Murer tells the story of a child prodigy and was Switzerland’s official submission for the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film.

Sister (2012) – This drama by director Ursula Meier tells the story of a young boy and his sister who live on the margins of society and was nominated for a Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival.

My Life as a Zucchini (2016) – This stop-motion animated film by director Claude Barras tells the story of a young boy in a foster home and was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Animated Feature.

The Divine Order (2017) – This comedy-drama by director Petra Biondina Volpe tells the story of women’s suffrage in Switzerland and was Switzerland’s official submission for the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film.

These are just a few examples of the many films produced in Switzerland, showcasing the diversity and creativity of the Swiss film industry.

Cost of Filming in Switzerland

Filming in Switzerland can be expensive compared to other Asian countries, as Switzerland is a developed country with a high cost of living and strong currency. However, it is worth noting that the cost of filming in Switzerland can vary depending on the location, scope of the project, and other factors.

Some of the factors that can impact the cost of filming in Switzerland include:

Permits and fees
Filming permits and associated fees can vary depending on the location and type of production.

Crew and talent
The cost of hiring local crew and talent can vary depending on the project’s size and scope.

Equipment rental
The cost of renting equipment can also vary depending on the type of production and equipment needed.

Accommodation and transportation
Accommodation and transportation costs can also be a significant factor in the overall cost of filming in Switzerland.

Overall, while Switzerland may be more expensive than some Asian countries for filming, it offers unique and stunning locations that can add value to any production. Ultimately, the cost of filming in Switzerland will depend on a variety of factors, and it is important to work with local experts to get an accurate estimate of costs.

Sensitive Regions in Switzerland

Switzerland is generally a safe and politically stable country with many picturesque and diverse locations for filming. However, there are a few sensitive regions that require special attention and permission to film in. Some of these areas include:

Military zones
Filming in Swiss military zones, including army barracks and airfields, is strictly regulated and requires special permits and clearance.

Sensitive infrastructure
Filming near sensitive infrastructure such as nuclear power plants, airports, and railways may also require special permissions and clearances.

Protected natural areas
Switzerland has many protected natural areas such as national parks, nature reserves, and wildlife sanctuaries. Filming in these areas may require special permits and compliance with specific guidelines to minimize the impact on the environment.

Private property
Filming on private property, including residential and commercial areas, requires permission from the property owner and may involve negotiating fees and terms.

It is important to note that regulations and permissions for filming in sensitive areas can vary depending on the location and project scope. It is recommended to consult with local experts and authorities to obtain the necessary permissions and comply with local regulations.

Filming Permit in Switzerland

Filming Permit
Filming in Switzerland requires obtaining permits from the relevant authorities depending on the location and type of production. The following is an overview of the permits required for filming in Switzerland:

General filming permit
A general filming permit is required for all types of film productions in Switzerland. The permit is issued by the local police department and grants permission to film in public places, including streets, parks, and other publicly accessible areas.

Location permit
A location permit is required to film on private property, including residential and commercial areas. The permit is issued by the property owner or management and may involve negotiating fees and terms.

Permit for sensitive areas
As mentioned before, filming in sensitive areas such as military zones, infrastructure, and protected natural areas may require special permits and clearances. These permits are issued by the relevant authorities such as the Swiss Armed Forces, Federal Office of Civil Aviation, and the Federal Office for the Environment.

Drone permit
Filming with drones requires obtaining a permit from the Federal Office of Civil Aviation. The permit involves complying with specific regulations and guidelines for drone operations, including safety and privacy concerns.

It is important to note that the permit application process and requirements can vary depending on the location and type of production. It is recommended to consult with local experts and authorities to obtain the necessary permits and comply with local regulations.

Visas for foreign crew
Foreign film crew who are not citizens of Switzerland or the European Union (EU) are required to obtain a work visa to film in Switzerland. The type of visa required depends on the duration and purpose of the stay.

Short-term stay
For a stay of up to 90 days, foreign film crew can obtain a Schengen visa. This visa allows the holder to travel to Switzerland and other Schengen countries for business, tourism, or other short-term purposes. The Schengen visa can be obtained from the Swiss embassy or consulate in the applicant’s country of residence.

Long-term stay
For a stay of more than 90 days, foreign film crew must obtain a work visa. The visa application must be submitted to the Swiss embassy or consulate in the applicant’s country of residence. The work visa requires a work permit, which is issued by the cantonal authorities in Switzerland. The work permit application must be initiated by the Swiss production company or employer who will sponsor the foreign crew.

It is important to note that the visa application process can take several weeks or even months, so it is recommended to plan ahead and start the process well in advance of the planned filming dates. Additionally, it is important to ensure that all necessary permits and clearances are obtained before filming begins.

Crew in Switzerland

Film crews in Switzerland are generally highly professional and experienced. There are various professional associations and unions representing different aspects of the film industry, including the Swiss Film Directors Association and the Swiss Union of Film Technicians and Cinematographers. However, membership in these organizations is not mandatory for crew members.

The cost of hiring film crews in Switzerland can vary depending on the size and complexity of the production, as well as the experience and expertise of the crew members. Switzerland is generally considered to be a high-cost country, and production costs can be higher than in some other countries. However, the quality of the crews and the infrastructure can also be higher.

Switzerland has four official languages: German, French, Italian, and Romansh. Most Swiss film crews are bilingual or multilingual, with many crew members being fluent in English in addition to one or more of the official languages.

The number of hours included in each shooting day can vary depending on the production schedule and the specific requirements of the shoot. However, the standard workday in Switzerland is generally eight hours, with overtime paid for additional hours worked. The maximum working hours per day and week are regulated by Swiss labor law, with mandatory breaks and rest periods.

World Production Service is your one-stop-shop for all production needs in Switzerland. We have an extensive network of top-notch photo, video, TV, and film crews as well as established relationships with leading production companies, media and casting agencies, and other service providers in Switzerland.

We can rapidly assemble an exceptional production team in Switzerland that is tailored to your production requirements, be it factual, branded, frictional or educational content. Whether you need a photo crew, video crew, TV crew, or film crew, we can provide you with the best professionals in the industry.

Additionally, we offer a variety of production companies to choose from, including film production company, video production company, photo production company, documentary production company, TV production company, TV commercial production company, and branded video production company in Switzerland. Our goal is to ensure that we meet all your production needs and deliver results that exceed your expectations.

With World Production Service, you can be sure that your production needs will be taken care of seamlessly and professionally in Switzerland.

Art Department in Switzerland

The art department in the film industry in Switzerland is generally considered to be very good. Swiss film crews have a reputation for being highly skilled and professional, with a strong attention to detail and a commitment to quality.

The art direction, set construction, and props making in Switzerland are typically of a high standard. Swiss artisans are known for their precision, craftsmanship, and creativity, which are essential qualities in these areas of film production. There are also a number of well-established production companies and studios in Switzerland that have experience in creating high-quality sets, props, and other visual elements for film productions.

In addition, Switzerland has a rich cultural heritage, and this can provide inspiration and resources for filmmakers looking to create authentic and visually stunning sets and props. From medieval castles and rustic farmhouses to sleek modern architecture, Switzerland has a wide range of architectural styles and landscapes that can be utilized in film production.

Overall, the art department in the Swiss film industry is considered to be of a high standard, with a strong focus on quality and attention to detail.

Equipment Rental in Switzerland

Local Equipment Rental
Photo, video, TV, and film equipment rental services in Switzerland are well-established, and there are several leading companies that offer a wide range of equipment for productions of various sizes and budgets. Some of the leading equipment rental companies in Switzerland include:

Visuals Switzerland
This company offers a wide range of photo, video, and film equipment rentals, including cameras, lighting, grip equipment, and accessories. They offer brands such as ARRI, RED, Sony, Canon, and Panasonic.

Filmgeräteverleih AG
This company specializes in professional film equipment rentals, including cameras, lenses, lighting, grip equipment, and accessories. They offer brands such as ARRI, Zeiss, Cooke, and Kino Flo.

Cinegrell
This company provides a range of film and video equipment rentals, including cameras, lenses, lighting, grip equipment, and accessories. They offer brands such as ARRI, Canon, RED, and Schneider-Kreuznach.

Light + Byte AG
This company specializes in high-end digital cinema equipment rentals, including cameras, lenses, and lighting. They offer brands such as ARRI, RED, Sony, and Zeiss.

In terms of specific equipment, the rental companies listed above offer a wide range of options, including high-end digital cinema cameras, lenses, lighting equipment, grip equipment, and accessories. Some of the most popular equipment rentals include ARRI cameras and accessories, Zeiss and Cooke lenses, and Kino Flo and ARRI lighting equipment. Overall, there is a wide variety of equipment available for rent in Switzerland to suit the needs of productions of all sizes and budgets.

Bringing Equipment into Switzerland
Switzerland is known for having strict rules regarding the import and export of goods, including filming equipment. If you are traveling into Switzerland with filming equipment for a temporary stay, there are certain rules and regulations you should be aware of.

In general, if you are bringing filming equipment into Switzerland for a temporary stay, you may be required to obtain a temporary importation permit from Swiss customs. This permit will allow you to bring your equipment into the country without paying any import taxes or duties, as long as you re-export it within the specified timeframe.

Switzerland is a signatory to the ATA Carnet system, which means that if you have a valid ATA Carnet, you can use it to temporarily import your filming equipment into Switzerland without paying any import duties or taxes.

However, not all goods are eligible for an ATA Carnet, and different rules may apply depending on the type and value of the equipment you are bringing into the country. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to check with Swiss customs or a local customs broker to confirm the specific requirements and regulations that apply to your situation.

In summary, if you are traveling into Switzerland with filming equipment for a temporary stay, you may need to obtain a temporary importation permit from Swiss customs. While the ATA Carnet system is recognized in Switzerland, it’s always a good idea to confirm the specific requirements and regulations that apply to your situation before you travel.

Talents and Casting in Switzerland

Switzerland has a number of talent and casting agencies that represent actors, models, and other performers. The quality and reputation of these agencies can vary, so it is important to do research to find the right agency for your needs.

Some of the leading talent and casting agencies in Switzerland include:

Elite Model Management
This is one of the largest and most well-known modeling agencies in the world, with offices in Zurich and Geneva. They represent both male and female models and have a reputation for representing high-profile clients.

Look Models International
This is a leading modeling agency with offices in Zurich and Geneva. They represent both established and up-and-coming models for fashion, commercial, and advertising work.

Just Casting
This is a casting agency based in Zurich that specializes in finding talent for film, television, commercials, and other productions. They represent actors, models, and other performers and have a reputation for working with high-profile clients.

Das Imperium Talent Agency
This is a talent agency based in Zurich that represents actors, directors, and writers. They work with both established and up-and-coming talent and have a reputation for representing some of the most talented actors and filmmakers in Switzerland.

In terms of the quality of talent in Switzerland, there is a diverse range of actors and models with varying levels of experience and skill. Swiss actors and models often have a strong work ethic and professionalism, and many are able to speak multiple languages, which can be an asset for productions that require multilingual talent.

Overall, Switzerland has a number of reputable talent and casting agencies that can help productions find the right talent for their needs. It is important to research and carefully evaluate different agencies to find the best fit for your production.

Post-production and Animation/VFX in Switzerland

Switzerland has a growing post-production and animation/VFX industry, with several companies offering a range of services.

In terms of post-production, some of the leading companies in Switzerland include:

Cinegrell Postproduction
This is a full-service post-production facility based in Zurich that offers editing, color grading, sound design, and visual effects services.

Studio 109
This is a post-production and animation studio based in Geneva that offers a range of services, including editing, visual effects, motion graphics, and animation.

Condor Films
This is a film production company based in Zurich that also offers post-production services, including editing, color grading, sound design, and visual effects.

Switzerland also has a growing animation and VFX industry, with several companies offering services in this area, including:

Apelab
This is a VR/AR and animation studio based in Geneva that specializes in creating interactive experiences and immersive content using cutting-edge technology.

Animationsinstitut at the University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland
This is a leading animation and VFX school based in Basel that offers bachelor’s and master’s degrees in animation, visual effects, and interactive media.

Frenetic Films
This is a film production company based in Lausanne that also offers animation and VFX services, including 2D and 3D animation, motion graphics, and visual effects.

Overall, Switzerland has a growing post-production and animation/VFX industry with several companies offering high-quality services. The industry is relatively small compared to other countries, but it is expanding and becoming increasingly competitive on a global scale.