Filming Locations for Rent in Seattle, WA

Your Guide to Renting Filming Locations in Seattle, WA

Many people, especially those not part of the film industry, might think that choosing the right filming location is quite an easy task. But they couldn’t be more wrong! The whole process is time-consuming, not to mention that it’s also extremely important for the movie’s success. An ideal location sets the tone, expresses the mood, and complements the plot. Sounds like a lot? Don’t worry, it’s not! We’d love to help you out, so we’ve put together a short guide that includes things you should keep in mind when looking for a place to shoot your upcoming creative project. So, give it a read without further ado, and find the perfect spot like a pro!

Guide to renting a filming location

• Know the script - It’s not about knowing your script by heart! But you’ll likely agree that without being at least familiar with it, you won’t be able to find a great location for your project! So when reading the script, immerse yourself in the story and try to envision it all in your mind. Think of every detail, such as the mood, lighting, colors, etc. What’s more, the location matching the storyline would help to tell the story a lot. So think about what would work for this particular project and filter out all the places that might not be a good fit.

• Interior locations - If you’re filming your project in the open air, you can skip this point. But if it’s the other way around, please pay attention! Make sure that the space is not too small and that you’ll have enough room to comfortably shoot the scenes. Why is this so important? Shooting in a tiny space can be a nightmare if there is no place to set up your equipment correctly so that the crew isn’t able to work efficiently without getting in each other’s way. The unnecessary chaos can result in needless mistakes (which means many retakes) and miscommunication.

• Exterior locations - Outdoor shots are another level, but they come with their own difficulties. So when scouting for a location, have not only your eyes but also your ears open! It might happen so that you’ll think you’ve found the perfect spot until you hear the roar of planes and it turns out there’s a flight path of an airport near the space you like! And even if you don’t think it will be a massive problem, the microphones will surely catch any unpleasant sounds. Moreover, it’s incredibly important to scout the location during the same time of day you plan to shoot. The place might have looked great in the evening when you were scouting, but what if you start shooting in the morning and it turns out the sun is backlighting your shots? Not cool!

• Permits - You’ll need them when filming out in public. But don’t worry, getting permits is not as scary as it sounds. Once you’ve obtained a permit, you will feel much more secure on the set and thanks to notifying local law enforcement officials; you will avoid any unnecessary misunderstandings.  

• Authenticity - There are a few things that can ruin the illusion of your film, and a location that is not authentic enough is one of them. And we’re not exaggerating! Can you imagine watching a hospital scene that has been shot in an apartment? Ridiculous, right? No one is going to buy it. If you can’t find a suitable place, think of making minor changes to the script so that your scene looks credible but doesn’t make the whole plot nonsensical. You may not wish to compromise your vision, but trust us: sometimes it might be the best solution.

• Have a schedule - Have the shooting period mapped out and planned, as it will come in handy when you determine your shoot and therefore rental period.  It will simply help you determine whether or not you can afford the location you love for a long time. It will simply help you determine whether you can afford the location you love for a long time. And don’t forget your coworkers! Once you have the dates set and the schedule ready, please send all of the details to everyone involved in the project so that they know what’s in store for them.

Picking the right filming location can be complicated, so we hope our short guide will help you even a bit with such a tricky task. But to shortly put together our tips: plan and budget everything correctly as soon as possible (ideally, in the pre-production process), and when the script is approved, start researching the location and filing permits. And one more thing: make the best use of your resources. If it’s necessary, be ready to compromise and improvise. We’re certain your artistic vision will be the one for the books!

FAQs about Filming Locations in Seattle, WA

Do I need a permit to film in Seattle?

There are several circumstances that may require you to obtain a Film Permit from the City of Seattle. To avoid any doubts, click this link, and you’ll be able to access a website that has all of the necessary information.

What filming locations can I find in Seattle?

There are many places where you can film indoors and outdoors around the whole city. We strongly recommend browsing through our website and having a look at the selection of unique locations Seattle offers. You can film in a professional studio, restaurant, cafe, bar, rooftop, or patio, to name just a few. Simply check Tagvenue’s website and find a place that matches your creative vision perfectly!

How much does it cost to rent a filming location in Seattle?

The price range is significant in Seattle. You can find budget-friendly options that range between $40 and $150 per hour. But remember that the rental price may vary depending on the location type, amenities, equipment, etc. If your shoot is lengthy, ask the venue manager for a special deal. (Based on data from Tagvenue.)

Where in Seattle can I find the best filming locations?

Hippy Belltown offers many great filming locations that will be perfect for various projects. The same goes for other neighborhoods in the city, such as Pike Pine or Downtown, where you will be able to find remarkable creative spaces and bring your vision to life. Of course, we must also mention Capitol Hill and its selection of professional photo studios.