Filming in Puerto Rico: Film, Photo, Video, Documentary Production Services and Crews

Puerto Rico generally experiences a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. The island has a rainy season from May to November, which is also the hurricane season. The dry season runs from December to April.

The best filming seasons in Puerto Rico are during the dry season, from December to April. During this time, there is generally less rainfall and more sunshine, providing better lighting conditions for filming. However, it is important to note that even during the dry season, rain showers can still occur, so it’s always best to have a contingency plan.

Overall, Puerto Rico can offer great filming opportunities throughout the year, but if you want to avoid the potential disruptions caused by the rainy season, then the dry season is your best bet.

Puerto Rico has many beautiful and diverse filming locations that can suit a variety of productions. Here are some of the best filming locations in Puerto Rico:

Old San Juan:
With its colorful Spanish colonial buildings and narrow cobblestone streets, Old San Juan provides a stunning backdrop for any production.

El Yunque National Forest:
This lush tropical rainforest is a unique and beautiful location for filming, with waterfalls, streams, and diverse flora and fauna.

La Perla:
This colorful and vibrant neighborhood in San Juan is a popular filming location for music videos and movies, providing a lively and authentic backdrop.

Vieques:
This island off the east coast of Puerto Rico is home to beautiful beaches, bioluminescent bays, and diverse landscapes that make for stunning aerial footage.

Culebra:
Another island off the east coast of Puerto Rico, Culebra is known for its crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and unspoiled natural beauty.

Ponce:
This historic city in southern Puerto Rico has a beautiful Spanish colonial architecture, vibrant local culture, and scenic coastal views.

Arecibo Observatory:
This giant radio telescope is the largest of its kind in the world and has been featured in many films and TV shows.
Guánica Dry Forest Reserve: This unique and endangered ecosystem in southwestern Puerto Rico is a great location for nature documentaries or science fiction films.

These are just a few of the many filming locations available in Puerto Rico. With its diverse landscapes, rich culture, and easy access from the mainland United States, Puerto Rico has become a popular filming location for both local and international productions.

Puerto Rico has several rental options for photo, video, TV, and film studios, as well as film backlots. Here are some of the options available:

Puerto Rico Film Commission:
The Puerto Rico Film Commission offers a comprehensive database of production resources in the territory, including listings of film studios and backlots available for rent.

DTC Studios:
DTC Studios is a full-service production studio located in San Juan that offers sound stages, green screens, and a range of production equipment for rent.

Green Road Studios:
Green Road Studios is a modern production facility in Gurabo, Puerto Rico, that features a sound stage, editing suites, and a range of production services.

Caribbean Film Studios:
Caribbean Film Studios is a production facility located in Luquillo, Puerto Rico, that offers sound stages, backlots, and production services for film and TV productions.

Hacienda Campo Rico:
Hacienda Campo Rico is a 2,200-acre ranch in Carolina, Puerto Rico, that offers a range of filming locations, including tropical forests, rivers, and scenic landscapes.

El Conquistador Resort:
The El Conquistador Resort is a luxury hotel in Fajardo, Puerto Rico, that offers a range of filming locations, including a private island, beaches, and tropical gardens.

Arecibo Observatory:
The Arecibo Observatory has been featured in several films and TV shows and is available for rent as a filming location.

Overall, Puerto Rico offers a variety of rental options for photo, video, TV, and film studios, as well as unique and diverse filming locations. The Puerto Rico Film Commission is an excellent resource for finding rental options and other production resources in the territory.

Puerto Rico has several cities that offer advanced photo, video, TV, and film facilities. Here are some of the cities in Puerto Rico that have comparatively more advanced facilities:

San Juan:
As the capital and largest city in Puerto Rico, San Juan has the most developed infrastructure for the film industry. The city has several production companies, sound stages, post-production facilities, and rental equipment providers.

Carolina:
Located on the northeast coast of Puerto Rico, Carolina is home to the Isla Grande Airport, which serves as the main gateway for film productions entering Puerto Rico. The city has several film and TV production companies, post-production facilities, and rental equipment providers.

Gurabo:
Gurabo is a municipality located in the eastern part of Puerto Rico and is home to several modern production studios, including Green Road Studios, which offers sound stages and post-production facilities.

Luquillo:
Luquillo is a coastal town located on the northeastern coast of Puerto Rico and is home to Caribbean Film Studios, a production facility that offers sound stages, backlots, and production services for film and TV productions.

Ponce:
Located on the southern coast of Puerto Rico, Ponce is a historic city that has several production companies, post-production facilities, and rental equipment providers.

Overall, San Juan and Carolina are the two cities in Puerto Rico with the most developed infrastructure for the film industry, but there are also several other cities with advanced facilities and resources for photo, video, TV, and film production.

Puerto Rico has a rich history of film production, with several notable films produced in the territory over the years. Here are some examples of films produced in Puerto Rico:

West Side Story (1961):
This classic musical film was partially filmed in Puerto Rico, with the city of San Juan serving as a backdrop for several scenes.

Fast & Furious 5 (2011):
The fifth installment of the Fast & Furious franchise was filmed in Puerto Rico, with several scenes filmed in the Old San Juan neighborhood.

The Rum Diary (2011):
This film adaptation of the novel by Hunter S. Thompson was filmed in Puerto Rico, with several scenes filmed in the city of San Juan.

The Men Who Stare at Goats (2009):
This comedy film starring George Clooney was partially filmed in Puerto Rico, with several scenes filmed in the town of Aguadilla.

Runner Runner (2013):
This crime thriller film starring Justin Timberlake and Ben Affleck was filmed in Puerto Rico, with several scenes filmed at the El Conquistador Resort in Fajardo.

Dirty Dancing: Havana Nights (2004):
This romantic drama film was partially filmed in Puerto Rico, with several scenes filmed at the El Conquistador Resort in Fajardo.

After the Hurricane (2018):
This documentary film follows the recovery efforts in Puerto Rico following Hurricane Maria in 2017, and was filmed in various locations across the island.

These are just a few examples of the many films produced in Puerto Rico over the years. The territory has become an increasingly popular filming location due to its diverse landscapes, rich culture, and accessible production resources.

The cost of filming in Puerto Rico can vary depending on several factors, such as the size and scope of the production, the locations used, and the length of the shoot. However, overall, filming in Puerto Rico can be a cost-effective option compared to neighboring countries in the Caribbean and Latin America.

One factor that makes filming in Puerto Rico more cost-effective is the territory’s tax incentives for film and TV production. The Puerto Rico Film Tax Credit provides a credit of up to 40% on eligible expenses incurred in the territory, which can significantly reduce the overall cost of production.

Additionally, Puerto Rico has a developed infrastructure for the film industry, with several production companies, sound stages, post-production facilities, and rental equipment providers available. This means that filmmakers can access the resources they need without incurring the additional cost of importing equipment and personnel from outside the territory.

Compared to neighboring countries, such as the Dominican Republic and Mexico, which are also popular filming locations, Puerto Rico’s cost of living and production expenses tend to be lower. This means that production costs, such as accommodations, transportation, and food, are generally more affordable in Puerto Rico.

Overall, while the cost of filming in Puerto Rico can vary depending on several factors, the territory’s tax incentives and developed infrastructure for the film industry make it a cost-effective option compared to neighboring countries.

Puerto Rico is a generally safe and welcoming place for film productions. However, there are some sensitive regions that filmmakers should be aware of and take appropriate precautions when filming. These sensitive regions include:

Old San Juan:
While this historic district is a popular filming location, it is also a popular tourist destination and can become very crowded, which can be challenging for filmmakers trying to capture a specific shot.

El Yunque National Forest:
As a protected area, filmmakers must obtain a permit from the Puerto Rico Department of Natural and Environmental Resources to film in El Yunque National Forest. Additionally, filmmakers must follow strict guidelines to protect the forest’s flora and fauna.

Guajataca Forest Reserve:
This forest reserve is also a protected area, and filmmakers must obtain a permit from the Puerto Rico Department of Natural and Environmental Resources to film there. The reserve is home to several endangered species, and filmmakers must take appropriate measures to protect the wildlife and their habitats.

Military bases:
Puerto Rico has several military bases that are off-limits to the public and require special permission to film in. Filmmakers must obtain the appropriate permits and follow all regulations when filming on military bases.

Private property:
Like anywhere else, filming on private property in Puerto Rico requires the permission of the property owner. Filmmakers must obtain written permission from the property owner before filming on private property.

Overall, while Puerto Rico is a generally safe and welcoming place for film productions, there are some sensitive regions that filmmakers should be aware of and take appropriate precautions when filming. Filmmakers should always obtain the necessary permits and follow all regulations when filming in sensitive areas.

Filming Permit
Filmmakers planning to shoot in Puerto Rico must obtain several permits and licenses to comply with local regulations. The specific permits required may vary depending on the location and scope of the production, but some of the common permits required for filming in Puerto Rico are:

Film Permit:
Filmmakers must obtain a film permit from the Puerto Rico Film Commission, which is responsible for regulating and promoting film production in the territory. The permit application requires details about the production, including the shoot schedule, location, and crew size.

Location Permit:
Filmmakers must obtain a location permit from the owner of any private property where filming takes place. For public property, filmmakers must obtain permits from the appropriate government agency responsible for managing the location.

Drone Permit:
If filmmakers plan to use drones for aerial shots, they must obtain a drone permit from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

Environmental Permits:
Filmmakers must obtain environmental permits from the Puerto Rico Department of Natural and Environmental Resources if the production takes place in protected areas or has the potential to impact the environment.

Firearm Permit:
If firearms are used during the production, filmmakers must obtain a permit from the Puerto Rico Police Department.

Parking Permits:
Filmmakers must obtain parking permits from the local authorities if they plan to use public parking spaces for their production vehicles.

Overall, filmmakers should plan ahead and allow sufficient time to obtain the necessary permits and licenses to avoid any delays or issues during filming in Puerto Rico. It is also recommended to hire a local production company or fixer who is familiar with the permit process and can help facilitate the necessary permits.

Visas for foreign crew
Foreign film crew members who are not US citizens or permanent residents will typically need a work visa to be able to film in Puerto Rico legally. The most common work visa categories for foreign film crew members are:

B-1 Visa:
This visa is for temporary business visitors, including individuals who are coming to the United States to work on a specific project, such as a film production. The B-1 visa is typically valid for up to six months.

O-1 Visa:
This visa is for individuals with extraordinary ability in the arts, including filmmakers, actors, and other production crew members. The O-1 visa requires evidence of the individual’s extraordinary ability in their field of expertise and is typically valid for up to three years.

P Visa:
This visa is for individuals who are coming to the United States to perform in a specific event or performance, such as a film production. The P visa has several subcategories, including P-1 for athletes and entertainment groups, P-2 for artists and entertainers who are part of a reciprocal exchange program, and P-3 for culturally unique artists and entertainers. The validity of the P visa depends on the length of the event or performance.

Foreign film crew members should consult with a qualified immigration attorney to determine the most appropriate visa category for their situation and to ensure that they meet all the requirements for the visa. The application process for a work visa can be lengthy, so it is recommended to start the process well in advance of the planned filming dates.

The level of professionalism of film crews in Puerto Rico can vary depending on the specific production company or crew hired. However, there are many experienced and highly skilled film crews in Puerto Rico, with many of them having worked on major film and television productions in the past. Additionally, the local film industry has been growing in recent years, with more investment and support from the government and private sector, which has led to an increase in the quality of film crews and facilities.

The cost of film crews in Puerto Rico is generally competitive with other filming locations in the Caribbean and Latin America, and may be less expensive than filming in the United States. The cost can vary depending on the size of the production, the specific crew positions required, and the duration of the shoot.

The primary language spoken by film crews in Puerto Rico is Spanish, as it is the official language of the territory. However, many crew members also speak English fluently, especially those who have worked on international productions in the past.

The number of hours included in each shooting day can vary depending on the production company and the specific crew members hired. However, the standard workday for film crews in Puerto Rico is typically 10 hours, with overtime pay required for any additional hours worked. It is important to note that labor laws and regulations in Puerto Rico may differ from those in other countries, so it is essential to comply with all applicable laws and regulations regarding work hours and overtime pay.

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

We can rapidly assemble an exceptional production team in Puerto Rico 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 Puerto Rico. 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 Puerto Rico.

The art department in the film industry in Puerto Rico is generally considered to be of a high standard. There are many experienced and talented professionals in this field who have worked on both local and international productions, including art directors, set designers, set decorators, and prop masters.

The art direction in Puerto Rico is known for its creativity and attention to detail. Many art directors in Puerto Rico have been recognized for their work on major film and television productions, and their skills and expertise are highly valued by production companies.

Set construction in Puerto Rico is also generally of a high quality. There are many skilled carpenters and construction workers who have experience in building sets for film and television productions, and they are able to work with a variety of materials to create realistic and visually stunning sets.

Similarly, prop making in Puerto Rico is also of a high standard. There are many talented prop makers who are able to create a wide range of props, from realistic weapons and vehicles to custom-made furniture and other items.

Overall, the art department in the film industry in Puerto Rico is considered to be highly skilled and professional, with a reputation for creativity, attention to detail, and quality craftsmanship.

Local Equipment Rental
Photo, video, TV, and film equipment rental companies in Puerto Rico offer a range of equipment for rent, including cameras, lenses, lighting equipment, grip equipment, sound equipment, and more. Some of the leading equipment rental companies in Puerto Rico include:

Cine-Serv:
Cine-Serv is a full-service equipment rental company that offers a wide range of equipment for film, TV, and video production. They have offices in San Juan and Caguas, and their inventory includes cameras, lenses, lighting equipment, grip equipment, sound equipment, and more.

Caribbean Production Services:
Caribbean Production Services is a production company that offers equipment rental services in addition to production services. Their equipment rental inventory includes cameras, lenses, lighting equipment, grip equipment, sound equipment, and more.

Camaleón Rental:
Camaleón Rental is a rental company that offers equipment rental services for film, TV, and video production. Their inventory includes cameras, lenses, lighting equipment, grip equipment, sound equipment, and more.

E-Tech:
E-Tech is a rental company that offers equipment rental services for film, TV, and video production. Their inventory includes cameras, lenses, lighting equipment, grip equipment, sound equipment, and more.

Master Production Group:
Master Production Group is a full-service production company that offers equipment rental services in addition to production services. Their equipment rental inventory includes cameras, lenses, lighting equipment, grip equipment, sound equipment, and more.

These are just a few of the leading equipment rental companies in Puerto Rico, and there are many other options available as well. The availability and cost of equipment rental can vary depending on the specific company and the equipment required.

Bringing Equipment into Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico is a territory of the United States, so the same rules apply for traveling into Puerto Rico with filming equipment as for traveling into any other state in the US.

If you are traveling with filming equipment that is intended for commercial use, you may need to obtain a temporary importation permit from US Customs and Border Protection (CBP). This permit allows you to bring your equipment into the US for a limited period of time, without paying import duties or taxes.

An ATA Carnet is a useful document for traveling with commercial goods, including filming equipment, as it can simplify customs procedures and avoid the need for a temporary importation permit. However, it is important to note that not all US states accept ATA Carnets, so it is important to check with CBP or your local US embassy or consulate to confirm the requirements for the specific state you will be traveling to.

It is also important to ensure that your filming equipment complies with US regulations and standards, including any safety or environmental regulations. This may include obtaining any necessary certifications or approvals, such as FCC certification for wireless equipment.

Overall, it is recommended to do thorough research and planning ahead of time to ensure that you comply with all the necessary regulations and requirements for traveling into Puerto Rico with filming equipment.

Puerto Rico has a growing entertainment industry and a number of talented actors, models, and performers. There are several reputable talent and casting agencies in Puerto Rico that help connect these individuals with opportunities in the industry. Some of the top agencies in Puerto Rico include GFR Media Talent, The Agency Models & Talent, and P.A.M. Talent Agency.

It’s worth noting that the quality and reputation of talent and casting agencies can vary greatly, so it’s important to do your research and seek out recommendations before signing with any agency. You may want to look for agencies with a track record of successfully placing talent in high-profile projects and that have positive reviews from both clients and talent.

Overall, Puerto Rico has a vibrant entertainment industry and many talented individuals, so there are likely to be some quality talent and casting agencies available to help aspiring performers achieve their goals.

While Puerto Rico is not known as a major hub for post-production, animation, and VFX, there are still some companies and individuals operating in these fields.

For post-production, there are a few studios that offer services such as video editing, sound design, color grading, and visual effects. Some of these companies include Postpro, Xmas Lab, and StereoCine. However, the availability and quality of these services may not be as extensive or advanced as in larger film and television markets.

In terms of animation and VFX, Puerto Rico has some independent artists and studios that offer services in this field. For example, Pixel Dream Studios is a local animation and game development company that has worked on various projects, and Animus Studios offers 2D and 3D animation services. However, these companies may not have the same level of resources and experience as larger animation and VFX studios in other countries.

Overall, while there are some post-production, animation, and VFX services available in Puerto Rico, the industry is not as developed as in other major entertainment markets. However, the industry is still growing and there may be opportunities for talented individuals to make a mark in these fields.