New York is a hotspot for filmmakers looking to make it big. But when looking for a place to film, settling for any old tourist spot won’t do it if you want to make your mark. You have to look for something out of the ordinary that will make your film stand out. We’ve put together a guide to terrific film shoot locations in New York. We’ve also found some resources for filmmakers to make the most out of your project.

Resources for filmmakers in NYC 

Making a movie, documentary, or TV series is a difficult task even for veterans of the industry. New York City is home to loads of filmmakers looking to make their mark. 

To help you get a leg up on the competition and get what you need to get your projects from the drawing board to completion, we’ve compiled a few resources to help you through the process. From equipment to permits to personnel and more, these resources are here to give you what you need when you need it. 

Empire State Development 

Empire State Development is a New York state agency that has resources for a variety of needs. They have resources available for everything from businesses and artists to government officials and more.

Here, you’ll find:

• links to the websites of film offices throughout the state

• regional film guides

• production guides

• links to film guilds throughout New York

• a directory of local film festivals and makeup artists

Empire State Development is a one-stop shop for all things TV and film in New York. If you’re looking to get connected to the filmmaking community in New York, this is where to go.

MOME 

If you’re looking to produce something in New York City, then the Mayor’s Office of Media and Entertainment (MOME) is one place you need to stop first. 

Featuring resources for everyone in the industry, from directors and production assistants to camera operators and extras, MOME has you covered for all your personnel and supply needs. 

The office also features a number of initiatives to promote TV and filmmaking in New York, as well as information on tax credits and other incentives that give you that extra bit of funding and support you need to take your project to the next level. 

You’ll also find hiring directories, walking tours and events, and other information that’s especially helpful for looking to get their start in the industry. No box is left unchecked, and MOME is a fantastic resource no matter what your goals are. 

A guide to some steller film shoot locations in NYC

Now that we’ve gotten you started with some great resources for filmmakers in the Big Apple, we’ll introduce you to some out-of-the-ordinary NYC film shoot locations to make your project more than just another film. 

Before you go out scouting on your own, check out these locations we’ve found and see if they might set the scene for you. 

1. Brooklyn Studios: top-level production venue 

Brooklyn Studios is the ultimate hybrid space that lets you produce whatever type of filming project you desire. With multiple locations and spaces, Brooklyn Studios lets you set up whatever type of scene you’re looking for to get the perfect shot. 

The studio even provides all the equipment you’ll need, including lighting, dolly, grip, and other rental equipment, ensuring you have access to everything you need in one space.

2. Deer Studios NYC: Manhattan central 

Suitable for filming movies as well as niche productions like documentaries, podcasts, and interviews, this multi-use film location is centrally located in the heart of Manhattan and features three main spaces. 

Whether you need an intimate space for an interview, a wide open space for filming big scenes, or a rooftop with sweeping views of NYC, Deer Studios has plenty to offer. 

Deer Studios also offers in-house production services and equipment rentals to help you get things done without having to rely on third-party services coming in and out.

3. 718 Studios: full-service studio production 

Want to shoot practically anything from a shampoo commercial to a full movie? Then 718 Studios is the place to go. 718 offers multiple setups for any type of production, in-house staff to assist with production, and all the equipment rentals and other gear you could need. 

For that little bit of extra professionalism to keep your project on track, 718 Studios is a cut above the rest.

Filming in New York: wrapping up 

Well, now you know where to find some of the best studios and film shoot locations in New York. New York is a great place for filming, but finding something better than average takes the right preparation and legwork. Hopefully, our short list has given you some inspiration for finding the right location. 

Many of these spaces are all-inclusive, providing everything you need right on-site. Alternatively, if you need another film shoot location in NYC, you’ll find no shortage of them in a city like NYC.