Filming in Colombia: Photography Production Services, Camera Crews & More Colombia

Colombia has a tropical climate, which means it is warm and humid throughout the year with relatively consistent temperatures. However, the weather patterns can vary depending on the region, so it is important to consider the specific area you are filming in. Here are some general guidelines for the best filming seasons in Colombia:

The dry season in Colombia typically runs from December to March and from June to August, depending on the region. This is generally considered the best time for filming, as the weather is usually sunny and clear, with less rain and humidity. During these months, the weather in cities like Bogotá and Medellín is generally mild and pleasant, while coastal areas like Cartagena and Santa Marta are hot and sunny.

The rainy season in Colombia typically runs from April to May and from September to November, again depending on the region. During these months, the weather can be more unpredictable, with frequent rain and thunderstorms that can disrupt filming schedules. However, this can also be a good time for filming certain types of scenes, such as moody or atmospheric shots.

It is also worth noting that Colombia is a diverse country with many different landscapes and microclimates, so it is important to do research on the specific area you plan to film in to determine the best season for filming. Additionally, it is always a good idea to have a contingency plan in case of unexpected weather or other challenges that may arise during filming.

Colombia is a diverse country with many stunning landscapes and historic locations that make great filming locations. Here are some of the best filming locations in Colombia:

Cartagena:
This colonial city on the Caribbean coast is known for its colorful buildings and vibrant culture. It has been used as a location in many films, including “Love in the Time of Cholera” and “Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides.”

Medellín:
This modern and cosmopolitan city is surrounded by stunning mountains and offers a range of filming locations, from urban streets to rural landscapes. It has been used as a location in many films and TV shows, including “Narcos.”

Tayrona National Natural Park:
This park on the Caribbean coast features beautiful beaches, crystal-clear water, and lush forests. It has been used as a location in several films, including “The Lost City.”

Bogotá:
Colombia’s capital city offers a mix of modern and historic architecture, as well as a vibrant culture and nightlife. It has been used as a location in many films and TV shows, including “Miss Bala” and “Narcos.”

Guatapé:
This colorful town near Medellín is known for its colorful buildings and stunning natural surroundings, including a towering rock formation called El Peñón de Guatapé. It has been used as a location in several films and TV shows, including “Narcos.”

Cocora Valley:
This valley in the Andes Mountains is known for its towering wax palm trees, which can reach up to 200 feet tall. It has been used as a location in several films and TV shows, including “The Queen of Flow.”

These are just a few examples of the many beautiful and unique filming locations that Colombia has to offer. With its diverse landscapes and rich culture, there are plenty of options for filmmakers looking to capture the beauty of this vibrant country.

Colombia has a growing film industry, and there are several studio rental and backlot options available for filmmakers in the country. Here are some examples:

Proimagén:
Located in Bogotá, Proimagén is one of the largest production and post-production facilities in Colombia. It includes multiple sound stages, production offices, and equipment rental options.

Cinecolor:
Cinecolor is a full-service production company with studios in both Bogotá and Medellín. Their facilities include sound stages, editing suites, and equipment rental.

Caracol TV:
One of Colombia’s largest TV networks, Caracol TV has a state-of-the-art production facility in Bogotá that includes sound stages and post-production facilities.

Ciudad de la Luz:
This film studio is located in Cartagena and includes several sound stages and a backlot with a variety of sets and exterior locations.

Mambo Studio:
Located in Medellín, Mambo Studio is a production company that offers studio rental and equipment rental, as well as post-production services.

These are just a few examples of the studio rental and backlot options available in Colombia. With its growing film industry, there are likely to be even more options in the coming years. It is important to do research and compare prices and facilities to find the best option for your production.

Colombia has several advanced filming cities with modern infrastructure, experienced crews, and state-of-the-art production facilities. Here are some examples:

Bogotá:
Colombia’s capital city is home to many production companies, post-production facilities, and equipment rental companies. It has a well-established film industry and a large pool of experienced crew members.

Medellín:
This city in the Andes Mountains has a thriving film industry and a growing number of production companies and studios. It is also known for its modern infrastructure, including a new subway system, and its educated workforce.

Cartagena:
This historic city on the Caribbean coast is a popular location for film and television production. It has a variety of locations that can stand in for other parts of the world, as well as experienced crew members and production facilities.

Cali:
This city in southwestern Colombia is known for its salsa music and dancing, but it also has a growing film industry. It has a variety of locations, including colonial architecture and natural landscapes, and a pool of experienced crew members.

Barranquilla:
This city on the Caribbean coast has a growing film industry and a variety of locations that can stand in for other parts of the world. It also has a new convention center that can be used for events and production facilities.

These are just a few examples of the advanced filming cities in Colombia. With its growing film industry and diverse locations, there are many options for filmmakers looking to shoot in this vibrant country.

Colombia has been the location for many films over the years, both international and domestic. Here are some examples of notable films produced in Colombia:

Love in the Time of Cholera (2007) – This romantic drama, based on the novel by Gabriel García Márquez, was partially filmed in Cartagena, Colombia.

Maria Full of Grace (2004) – This drama about a Colombian drug mule was filmed on location in Bogotá, Colombia.

The Secret of the Grain (2007) – This French drama was partially filmed in Cartagena, Colombia.

No One Writes to the Colonel (1999) – This Spanish-language film, based on the novel by Gabriel García Márquez, was filmed on location in La Candelaria, Bogotá, Colombia.

Sin Tetas No Hay Paraíso (2006) – This Colombian film, which translates to “Without Breasts There Is No Paradise,” was filmed on location in Medellín, Colombia. It was later adapted into a popular television series.

Wild Horses (2015) – This American thriller was partially filmed on location in the Colombian Andes.

All Roads Lead to Rome (2015) – This romantic comedy, starring Sarah Jessica Parker, was partially filmed in Cartagena, Colombia.

These are just a few examples of the many films that have been produced in Colombia over the years. With its diverse locations and experienced crews, Colombia is a popular destination for filmmakers from around the world.

The cost of filming in Colombia can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the type and scope of the production, the length of the shoot, the locations used, the size of the crew, and the level of equipment needed. Here are some general estimates of production costs in Colombia:

Location fees: Location fees in Colombia can range from relatively inexpensive to costly depending on the location, with urban areas generally being more expensive than rural areas. The average location fee can be anywhere from $500 to $5,000 per day.

Crew and talent: Salaries for film crew and talent in Colombia are generally lower than in many other countries, but can still vary depending on experience and skill level. The average daily rate for a camera operator or sound technician is around $200-$300, while the daily rate for an actor can range from $300-$500.

Equipment: Equipment rental costs in Colombia can be lower than in many other countries, but again, it depends on the specific equipment needed. The average daily rate for a basic camera package can range from $150-$300, while more advanced equipment can cost upwards of $500 per day.

Permits and other fees: Obtaining permits and other necessary documentation for filming in Colombia can also add to the cost of production. Permit fees can vary depending on the location and type of shoot, but can range from $200-$1,000.

Overall, filming in Colombia can be a cost-effective option for many productions, with lower labor and equipment costs than many other countries. The country also offers a diverse range of locations, from urban areas to natural landscapes, which can help keep location costs low. However, as with any international production, it is important to budget accordingly and factor in all costs and potential challenges that may arise.

While Colombia has many beautiful and diverse locations for filming, there are some areas that may be sensitive or require special permits for filming. Here are some examples:

Indigenous territories: Filming in indigenous territories requires special permits and may also require consultation with the indigenous communities themselves. It is important to work with local authorities and community leaders to obtain the necessary permissions.

National parks and protected areas: Filming in national parks and protected areas may require special permits and compliance with specific regulations to protect the natural environment.

High-risk areas: Some regions in Colombia may still have high levels of violence or political instability, and may be considered dangerous for filming. It is important to research the safety and security situation of any area before filming there.

Historical sites and cultural landmarks: Some historical sites and cultural landmarks may have restrictions on filming or photography, or may require special permits. It is important to check with local authorities and obtain the necessary permissions before filming in these areas.

Overall, it is important to research the specific location and obtain the necessary permits and permissions before filming in Colombia. Working with local authorities, hiring local fixers or production companies, and respecting local customs and traditions can help ensure a successful and respectful filming experience.

Filming Permit
The specific permits required for filming in Colombia can vary depending on the location, type of shoot, and other factors. However, here are some of the common permits that may be required:

Location permits:
Location permits are required for filming in most public or private locations, including streets, buildings, parks, and other outdoor areas. These permits are usually obtained from the local authorities or property owners, and may require payment of a fee.

Filming permits:
Filming permits are generally required for any type of production in Colombia. These permits are obtained from the National Film Commission or the relevant local authorities, and require submission of a detailed application with information about the production, crew, equipment, and shooting locations.

Drone permits:
If you plan to use drones for filming in Colombia, you will need to obtain a permit from the Colombian Civil Aviation Authority. This permit requires submission of a detailed application and compliance with specific regulations for drone use.

Work permits:
If you plan to hire foreign crew or talent for your production in Colombia, you will need to obtain work permits from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. These permits require submission of a detailed application and may require payment of a fee.

Customs permits:
If you plan to bring filming equipment or props into Colombia from another country, you may need to obtain customs permits from the Colombian Customs Authority. These permits require submission of a detailed application and compliance with specific regulations for importing goods.

It is important to research the specific permit requirements for your production in Colombia and work with local fixers or production companies to ensure that you obtain all necessary permits and comply with any local regulations or restrictions.

Visas for foreign crew
The visa requirements for film crew traveling to Colombia can vary depending on the nationality of the crew members and the length of their stay. Here are some general guidelines:

Visa-free travel:
Citizens of many countries, including the United States, Canada, the European Union, Australia, and many countries in South America, can enter Colombia without a visa for stays of up to 90 days. This includes crew members who are visiting Colombia for short-term filming projects.

Temporary work visas:
If crew members plan to work in Colombia for longer than 90 days, they may need to obtain a temporary work visa. The specific visa requirements can vary depending on the type of work and the nationality of the crew member. In general, the visa application process requires submission of a detailed application, proof of employment or business in Colombia, and other supporting documents.

Business visas:
Some crew members may be able to enter Colombia on a business visa if they are visiting for meetings or other business purposes related to the filming project. The requirements for a business visa can vary depending on the nationality of the crew member and the length of their stay.

It is important to research the specific visa requirements for crew members traveling to Colombia and work with local fixers or production companies to ensure that all necessary visas are obtained before travel. The Colombian embassy or consulate in the crew member’s home country can provide more information on visa requirements and application procedures.

Colombia has a growing film industry and a talented pool of film crew who can work on productions in the country. Here are some general answers to your questions:

Unionization: While there are some unions for film crew in Colombia, it appears that unionization is not widespread in the industry. Most film crew in Colombia are considered independent contractors or freelancers and may negotiate their rates and working conditions directly with production companies or producers.

Cost: The cost of hiring film crew in Colombia can vary depending on the type of production, the specific roles needed, and other factors such as experience and availability. However, in general, the cost of hiring crew in Colombia is competitive with other countries in the region and is more affordable than hiring crew in countries like the United States or Europe.

Languages spoken: Spanish is the official language of Colombia, and most film crew in the country speak Spanish as their first language. However, many crew members may also speak English or other languages, especially if they have worked on international productions in the past.

Shooting hours: The number of shooting hours included in each day can vary depending on the specific production and the needs of the crew. However, the standard workday for film crew in Colombia is generally 8-12 hours, with overtime paid for any additional hours worked.

It is important to work with local fixers or production companies to find experienced and reliable film crew in Colombia who can meet the specific needs of your production. They can provide more detailed information on the availability, cost, and qualifications of crew members in different roles.

World Production Service is your one-stop-shop for all production needs in Colombia. 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 Colombia.

We can rapidly assemble an exceptional production team in Colombia 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 Colombia. 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 Colombia.

The country has a growing number of talented art directors, set designers, and prop makers who can work on productions in the country.

Art direction and set construction in Colombia have been praised for their creativity and attention to detail, and many productions have been filmed in the country with impressive production design. The art departments in Colombia have experience working on a range of projects, from small independent films to large-scale international productions.

Prop making in Colombia is also well-regarded, with many skilled craftsmen and women creating custom props for film and television productions. Some notable examples include the intricately designed costumes and props in the popular Netflix series “Narcos” and the elaborate set design in the Oscar-nominated film “Embrace of the Serpent.”

Overall, the art department in the film industry in Colombia is considered to be of high quality, and many productions have benefited from the creativity and expertise of Colombian art directors, set designers, and prop makers.

Local Equipment Rental
There are several companies in Colombia that offer equipment rental for photo, video, and film productions. Some of the most well-known equipment rental companies in Colombia include Cinerent, Cinequipos, and Camara Studios.

These companies offer a wide range of equipment, including cameras, lenses, lighting equipment, grip equipment, and sound equipment. They also offer accessories such as tripods, dollies, jibs, and cranes. Some rental companies in Colombia may also offer specialized equipment such as drones or underwater camera gear.

In addition to equipment rental, some rental companies in Colombia also offer support services such as equipment maintenance and repair, technical support, and training for production crews.

Overall, production companies can find a variety of high-quality equipment options in Colombia, including some specialized equipment for specific production needs. Prices can vary depending on the specific equipment and rental period, but the rental market in Colombia is competitive, and many companies offer competitive rates for their services.

Bringing Equipment into Colombia
If you are planning to travel to Colombia with filming equipment for a temporary stay, you may need to comply with certain rules and regulations, including obtaining the appropriate permits and documentation.

Colombia is a member of the ATA Carnet system. Therefore, you can use this document to temporarily import your filming equipment into Colombia without paying duties and taxes, as long as the equipment is not intended for sale and will be re-exported within the validity period of the ATA Carnet.

It is recommended to consult with the relevant Colombian authorities and a customs broker for more detailed information and assistance with the import and export process.

There are several talent and casting agencies in the film industry in Colombia. These agencies can help connect filmmakers with actors, models, and other performers for their projects. Some of the most well-known talent and casting agencies in Colombia include:

La Agencia:
One of the largest talent agencies in Colombia, La Agencia represents actors, models, and other performers. They work with both local and international clients and have offices in Bogotá, Medellín, and Cali.

Actors Latin America:
A talent agency that specializes in representing Latin American actors for film, television, and theater productions. They have a database of over 15,000 actors and operate in several countries, including Colombia.
Agencia Carola Ortiz:
A modeling agency that also represents actors and other performers. They have worked with many high-profile clients in Colombia and offer casting services for film, television, and commercial productions.
The Actors Studio:
A training center for actors that also offers casting services for film and television productions. They have locations in Bogotá and Medellín and have trained many successful Colombian actors.
Talenteca:
A platform for actors and performers to connect with casting directors and producers. They offer casting services for film, television, and commercial productions in Colombia and other Latin American countries.

These are just a few examples of the many talent and casting agencies operating in the film industry in Colombia. It’s important to research and choose an agency that specializes in the type of talent you need and has experience working on similar productions.

Colombia has a growing post-production and animation/VFX industry, with many talented professionals and studios offering a wide range of services. Here are some key things to know about post-production and animation/VFX in Colombia:

Post-production:
Post-production services in Colombia include editing, sound design, color grading, and visual effects.
Many post-production studios are located in Bogotá, the capital city of Colombia.
The post-production industry in Colombia is known for its quality work and cost-effectiveness, making it an attractive option for international film and television productions.
Some of the top post-production studios in Colombia include ANIMA Estudios, Labo Digital, and PUNTO3 Post.

Animation/VFX:
The animation/VFX industry in Colombia is still developing, but there are many talented professionals and studios offering a range of services.
Colombian animation studios are known for their high-quality work, creative storytelling, and use of cutting-edge technology.
Some of the top animation/VFX studios in Colombia include 3DAR, Bitt Animation, and Red Animation.

Government support:
The Colombian government offers incentives for foreign film and television productions, including a 40% rebate on eligible production expenditures.
The government also supports the development of the animation/VFX industry through funding and training programs.
In 2019, the government launched the National Animation and Video Game Development Plan, which aims to increase the competitiveness of the industry and create new job opportunities.
Overall, post-production and animation/VFX in Colombia offer a growing industry with talented professionals, cost-effective services, and government support.