Production Related Challenges in Europe During the Summer Vacation Season
We are an EU-based video production company with boots on the ground in 14 EU countries. This shot was taken in Zagreb, Croatia filming for a US documentary production.
Filming in Europe during the summer vacation season offers a unique set of opportunities and challenges. The beautiful weather, extended daylight hours, and vibrant cultural landscapes create an ideal backdrop for documentary, sports, and corporate video productions. However, these benefits often come with notable logistic hurdles that can complicate the production process. As a camera crewing agency covering major cities from Germany to Russia, our focus at videocrewhire.com is to navigate these logistical hurdles seamlessly and ensure that productions run smoothly despite the challenges.
Live broadcasting for CNBC from the Bratislava Fortress.
One of the primary logistic hurdles arises from the diverse regulations and permit requirements across Europe. Each country—and sometimes even regions within a country—has different rules regarding filming. This complexity poses significant production challenges, especially if shooting involves multiple locations.
For instance, securing permits in Germany might be a straightforward process in one city but convoluted and time-consuming in another. Meanwhile, filming in tourist-heavy parts of Russia can involve additional bureaucratic steps, particularly when shooting near historical or cultural landmarks. It’s crucial to start the process of obtaining permits well in advance. Having local fixers or liaisons who are familiar with regional regulations can help streamline this aspect, reducing the potential for delays and ensuring all legalities are observed.
Filming with IMG in Belgrade, Serbia. We provided 3 video crews for them to cover the Final4 in Belgrade.
Summer is peak travel season in Europe, leading to increased competition for accommodation and transportation. This spike in tourism can make finding suitable lodging for production crews and securing reliable means of transport onerous.
To mitigate these production challenges, it’s wise to book accommodations and transportation services far in advance. Opting for lodging in less tourist-heavy parts of town can help avoid the brunt of the summer rush. Additionally, working with established local transportation providers who understand the unique requirements of a production crew—including the importance of punctuality and the need for space for large equipment—can go a long way in avoiding unnecessary disruptions.
Our DOP filming in Munich centre. We cover Europe from Germany to Russia with local video crews.
The influx of tourists to Europe’s most scenic and culturally significant locations peaks during summer, which can become a logistical nightmare for production teams focused on documentaries, sports events, and corporate videos. Overcrowded locations not only impede shooting but also challenge the management of equipment security and crew safety.
One effective strategy is to plan shoots for early mornings or late evenings when tourist activities are at their lowest. Alternatively, securing exclusive access to locations through negotiations with local authorities can ensure more controlled filming conditions. Understanding the flow of foot traffic at these sites can also help in scheduling shoots to avoid the peak hours.
In Prague we provide live or remote video production services for clients using the latest live IP technologies.
While summer generally means good weather, Europe can be surprisingly unpredictable. Sudden rain showers, heatwaves, or even temporary cold snaps can introduce significant production challenges. Moreover, adverse weather conditions can affect both crew comfort and equipment functionality.
To address these logistic hurdles, it is essential to be prepared with appropriate gear and backup locations. Scheduling indoor shoots or interviews as backup plans can keep the production moving forward despite weather disruptions. Additionally, real-time weather monitoring tools can help production teams react swiftly to changing conditions and adjust their plans accordingly.
In Vienna our DOP films at the magnificent Hofburg Palace for a German production.
Europe’s linguistic and cultural diversity adds another layer of complexity to filming. Language barriers can hinder effective communication, leading to potential misunderstandings and operational inefficiencies. Cultural sensitivities must also be respected, especially in regions with strict social norms or unique traditions.
Employing local crews or fixers can bridge language gaps and facilitate smoother operations. Understanding cultural norms and sensitivities can further ensure respectful and harmonious interactions. This approach not only enhances production efficiency but also fosters a positive working environment.
Our Sarajevo based DOP films in the Bascharsija district.
High demand for local production resources during the summer can present serious production challenges. Equipment rentals, skilled camera operators, and even local runners can become scarce during this busy season. As a camera crewing agency, we understand the importance of securing these resources well before the peak season hits.
Advanced booking and establishing long-term relationships with local vendors and service providers can mitigate risks associated with resource shortages. Having a contingency plan, such as backup suppliers or alternative staffing solutions, can ensure productions stay on track, even if primary resources become unavailable.
We are filming a standup with Steven Sackur for the BBC’s Hard Talk programme in Bratislava, Slovakia.
Filming during Europe’s peak tourist season inevitably leads to higher costs—whether for accommodation, permits, or local services. These increased expenses need to be factored into project budgets early to avoid financial shortfalls and ensure that production schedules are maintained without unnecessary compromises.
To manage these budgetary production challenges, create a detailed budget that anticipates potential cost escalations. Allocating a significant contingency fund can also provide a financial buffer for unforeseen expenses. This forward-thinking approach helps in keeping the production process on an even keel, despite the financial pressures of peak-season filming.
In Budapest we were filming for Shell.
Health and safety are paramount, especially when dealing with high temperatures and crowded environments typical of European summers. Provisions should be made for hydration, sun protection, and regular breaks. Understanding local health and safety regulations—and ensuring the crew adheres to them—can prevent health issues and comply with legal standards. A healthy crew is more productive and can handle the rigors of filming more efficiently.
Filming in Warsaw, Poland for Oracle.
Effective time management is crucial when facing the logistic hurdles of filming during Europe’s summer vacation season. Given the potential for delays due to crowded locations, heavy traffic, and unpredictable weather, a flexible yet detailed shooting schedule is essential.
Utilizing project management tools designed for complex productions can help maintain organized timelines. Prioritizing tasks, allocating responsibilities clearly, and setting realistic deadlines are strategies that ensure productive time management. Leveraging the extended daylight hours typical of European summers can also maximize shooting time, allowing for longer production days under natural light conditions.
Filming an Australian documentary about Mozart’s sister in Salzburg, Austria.
The success of navigating logistic hurdles heavily relies on strong communication and collaboration among all participants—from the production crew, accommodation and transport providers, to local authorities and residents. Transparent communication channels and regular updates help manage expectations and promptly address arising issues.
Building good relationships with locals—by understanding their needs and showing respect for their environments—can foster a cooperative spirit. This collaboration not only eases logistical challenges but also enhances the overall filming experience, cultivating goodwill and ensuring long-term benefits.
Our video crew from Zagreb filming in the port of Rijeka for a German client.
Filming in Europe during the summer vacation season entails a variety of logistic hurdles, addressing these challenges with thorough planning, effective communication, and local knowledge can lead to successful production outcomes. From managing diverse regulatory environments and securing necessary resources, to adjusting for weather variability and cultural sensitivities, a comprehensive and proactive approach will ensure that documentary, sports, and corporate film productions can thrive despite the logistical complexities of the season. With careful consideration and strategic planning, the captivating beauty and cultural richness of Europe during summer can be successfully captured on camera.
