Film Studios for Rent in San Francisco, CA

Reasons to Book a Film Studio for Your Production?

Filming on location has its charm, but studio environments are unmatched when it comes to flexibility, time efficiency, and technical reliability. Here’s why seasoned filmmakers and first-timers turn to studios:

Total Creative Control

• Build custom sets from scratch
• Use green screens to film scenes in any “location” without leaving SF
• Soundproof or insulated studios ensure clean audio every time

Access to Pro Equipment

Many studios provide lighting kits, tripods, grip gear, C-stands, green screens, and even camera rentals. Some spaces also include props, costumes, and backup gear—ideal for independent filmmakers working on tight schedules.

Better Time Management

With lighting, props, and staging often pre-set or ready to go, you’ll save hours on setup—meaning more time for rehearsals and retakes. This is key for teams juggling tight deadlines or talent availability.

Crew-Friendly Amenities

Top studios offer makeup rooms, kitchenettes, restrooms, and lounge areas. These comfort features help maintain energy and morale during long shoots. Some even provide on-site catering or coffee setups.

Fewer Distractions, More Focus

A professional studio creates a production mindset. Whether you’re filming with a CEO, a creative team, or actors, the dedicated environment helps everyone stay on task and deliver their best.

Studio Rentals Work for Budget Filmmaking

Access to professional lighting and sound gear instantly boosts production value—even if you're filming on a modest budget. Many studios offer affordable hourly rates and bundled packages for longer shoots.

What to Expect from Film Studios in San Francisco

• White cyclorama walls – Ideal for clean, seamless video or product shots
• Green screens – Perfect for background replacement, VFX, or location trickery
• Blackout curtains or blackout spaces – Full control of light
• Post-production zones – Some studios offer edit bays or workstation setups for on-site post
• Rehearsal or prep areas – Great for blocking, script run-throughs, or wardrobe checks

Top Film Studios in San Francisco

• StoodilyDoodleyO – From $160/hr A full-service production space with a huge cyclorama wall, kitchen, double oven, bathrooms, and built-in workstations. Ideal for commercial shoots, brand videos, and multi-day productions.

• Studio at Oakdown Boudoir – From $75/hr A cozy, vintage-style studio with gorgeous natural light—perfect for daytime filming, interviews, or stylized short-form content. Save on lighting without compromising on quality.

• The Producer’s Loft Studio – From $250/hr A fully equipped film and photo studio featuring a green screen, blackout capability, lighting grid, full kitchen, lounge area, and sound-treated walls. Perfect for commercial shoots, interviews, livestreams, and full-scale video productions with crew.

SF Film Studios Offering Equipment Rental

Plenty of San Francisco film studios offer equipment rental, even at smaller or less expected spots.

Take Flash Photo Studio in South San Francisco – it’s just $120/hr and often includes essential lighting gear, backdrops, and grip stands, making it a smart option for product shoots or talking heads. Ets-Hokin Studios in Bayview is another standout — at $950/day, it’s built for all-day productions and often offers lighting equipment and set design options on request. And Studio GZ in Oakland (just across the bridge) offers a compact space for $50/hr that’s ideal for smaller shoots with available add-ons like lights and modifiers.

Film Studios Suitable For Large Productions

There are several film studios in San Francisco that can handle large-scale productions, offering the space, amenities, and flexibility needed for crews, gear, and long shoot days.

• Dogpatch Studios – Dogpatch
  With space for up to 140 standing and 110 seated, this massive studio offers high ceilings, industrial vibes, and multiple shoot zones — perfect for commercials, brand campaigns, or multi-set builds. $3000 per session gets you serious space and creative freedom.
• 906 World – Russian Hill
  This 350-capacity venue isn’t a classic soundstage, but it’s often used for productions needing tons of open space. At $350/hr, it’s a flexible blank slate great for creative builds, event-filming crossovers, or scenes needing lots of movement.
• E Squared Studio (100-person room) – Southwest Richmond Annex
  At just $120/hr, this studio offers a rare size for the price. It’s ideal for productions that need room to stage equipment, set up lighting rigs, and keep talent and crew comfortable throughout the day.

What to Ask Before Booking

• What lighting and grip equipment is included in the rental?
• Are there additional fees for using green screens or cyclorama walls?
• Is there a prep or load-in time before your slot starts?
• Are camera rentals or on-site staff available if needed?
• What is the noise profile (e.g., soundproofing, external traffic)?

Tagvenue gives you fast access to the best film studios in San Francisco. Easily filter by location, amenities, equipment, and hourly rates to find exactly what you need.