Film Studios for Rent in Austin, TX

Film Studios Rental Guide

Over the last couple of years, many talented artists and filmmakers have moved to Austin to pursue their creative visions. Thanks to that, you can find tons of fresh, independent film and photo studios all over the city. If you’re just starting out with filmmaking, you may be intimidated by the concept of booking a professional studio, but worry not! Every studio is designed to make the job easier, quicker, and better. Here are the main benefits of hiring a film studio in Austin:

• Everything is set up in advance. Setting up a studio at home may be a huge hassle, especially if you have to do it regularly. In a separate studio, everything is always ready to go. If you have any specific requests, the venue manager can get them done in advance so that you can start working immediately after stepping into the venue.

• You get access to proper equipment. Good filming equipment is super expensive. Film studios already have everything you’re going to need, so why splurge on that gear yourself? This is especially true for beginners who may be unsure if they want to turn filmmaking into a full-blown hobby or a potential career.

• The lighting is always on point. Usually, there’s no natural lighting involved in a proper studio. While you can take some amazing shots using only sunlight, artificial lighting stays consistent regardless of time and weather. Not to mention the infinite possibilities with setting up lights in different positions and changing their softness or color.

• You can ask a technician for help. Whether you need someone to help you with the audio or give you a second opinion on something, it’s nice to have someone on-site to assist you in getting the best footage possible. Sometimes enlisting help from a studio tech costs an additional fee, but if you’re getting the service with the rental costs, why not use it?

Everything to consider when searching for a film studio

Location - The less time you spend moving through traffic, the better. That’s why it’s always a good idea to start searching near your home or office. Likewise, if you have to use public transport, it’s a good idea to check the location of the closest bus or rail station, depending on what you have to go for. 

Purpose - Before you start, you should know what you want to do in the studio. Do you need a green screen? How large does it have to be? Should it be meant for a large production or just for a couple people at a time? Clear expectations and a general production outline will help you find the right studio for the job much quicker. 

Equipment - Do you want to use a DSLR, or will you need a full-blown camera? What type of light diffusers does the studio have? Every film studio should have a detailed list of cameras, lenses, lamps, screens, and props. Discuss with the venue manager which of these things you’ll need, but remember that some studios charge a separate fee for additional equipment.

Size - Big and ambitious movie scenes may require a warehouse with a huge Colorama green screen or LED stage. However, most product commercials and amateur projects can be done in a smaller studio meant for up to 10 people. Of course, you’ll need to be much more thoughtful about light and microphone placement in smaller spaces, but they’re cheaper and can be found in less remote locations.

Extra facilities - If you have other crew members and actors on board, you should make sure that you have access to additional amenities. Actors may need changing rooms and some separate space for rehearsing. Some studios also have a sound booth that allows you to monitor the sound output or do some voice-over work. If you’re shooting in the summer, you can check if your studio has air conditioning.

Budget - How much can you spend on your studio? Keeping your budget in check in any film or photo production is crucial. We have some good tips below if you’re running an indie production and need to watch your spending.

How to rent a good film studio on a budget

• Book for off-peak hours - Amateur film and photo studios are packed in the afternoons and evenings. If you take a day off and start in the morning, there’s a high chance you’ll be able to rent the venue you want without trouble. Some places even charge less for bookings for timeframes before noon.
• Bring your own gear - If you already own everything you need, how about hiring a creative studio and setting it up yourself?  You can save some big bucks if everything you need fits in your car. 
• Be efficient with your time - Most studios rent their spaces in hourly increments. If you plan and rehearse your scene in advance, you’ll be able to finish the shoot quicker and avoid taking extra hours.

FAQs about Film Studios in Austin, TX

How much does renting a film studio in Austin, TX, cost?

You can rent a simple filming space in Austin for as low as $25 per hour. If you’re looking for all the bells and whistles (lighting, equipment, amenities), the average price for such a space would be between 50-130$ per hour. (All data from Tagvenue.com)

How far in advance should I book my film studio?

If you want to make sure you have good options available, you should start making enquiries at least 4-6 weeks in advance.

What gear should I bring to a film studio?

It depends on what the studio already has and what you will need for your project. Contact the venue manager for detailed info on the available equipment and the policies for bringing your own gear.

Where in Austin will I find the best film studios?

You can find at least a couple great studio options in every part of the city, but you should start with East Austin. Locations close to 7th Street offer lots of variety. There you’ll find anything from small rehearsal and filming spaces to state-of-the-art film production facilities.