Shooting permissions in China-Everything you should know
Filming in China can be a tricky endeavor due to the many different regulations and permit requirements needed in order to be able to shoot in the country. Obtaining the various permissions and permits necessary to shoot in China can be time-consuming and daunting. Focus Film China can help you with shooting permissions, as well as restrictions, in Beijing. Read this article thoroughly to save yourself time and energy.
Cameras can’t be carried inside Tian Amen place nowadays, but we have good spots to get similar shots.
When it comes to locations, there are certain areas that need to be applied for permission with greater rigor than others. For instance, many of our clients would like to shoot in the Forbidden City. If you bring along a tripod, reflector, large camera, and/or black suitcases, you are likely to be prohibited from filming or taking photos. Focus Film China knows who to contact in such circumstances. However, it can take a long time and be expensive. We usually inquire with our clients: is it really worth the effort and cost for the project? If you just need some “Chinese look” shots, there are other options available. If you have limited time or a tight budget, and absolutely need footage of the Forbidden City, let’s make the necessary calls and start the procedure.
Some filming crews may never understand why filming on a “normal” street can draw the attention of the police. The answer varies, but check if one of the following is the case:
1. You have foreigners in the crew trying to interview people on the street. China has very restrictive rules for foreign media, and if you interact with people without the proper visa, you could be in big trouble. Some Chinese people may be alert to foreign faces or cameras and could call the police. For further advice, check our article “How to choose a cameraman in China. ”
2. The shooting location is too close to a government building such as the Foreign Ministry or a police station.Don’t conduct B-rolls randomly on the street, especially in Beijing – make sure there are no government buildings nearby. The best solution? Let Focus Film China guide you or order footage from our experienced cameramen.
3. Your shooting date is too close to a sensitive date in China. An important question to ask is which dates are sensitive in China. The 4th of June is one of them, although it is a long story to tell why. If you film in late May or early June in Beijing near a government building with a foreign crew member, the chances of being stopped by the police are high. You could end up spending a long time with the police – trust us.
Filming in places such as airports, subways, or train stations can also require shooting permissions. Fortunately, Focus Film China has done this many times and knows who to contact.
it is important to ensure that the entire process of acquiring permits and permissions is conducted in a safe and legal manner. Focus Film China can help provide guidance and advice on the different aspects of obtaining necessary shooting rights and permissions in China. Our experienced fixers and producers are well-versed in the rules and regulations of the Chinese film industry and will ensure that filming is conducted in a safe and legal manner.
Overall, getting shooting permissions can be a complex process, but with our experienced fixers/producers, you can be assured that we won’t just help you obtain the necessary filming permits, but we will also guide you through the entire process and ensure your filming is conducted safely and legally in the country; however, it is important to contact us in advance, as sometimes it takes time to get shooting permissions in China. Contact us at info@focusfilmchina.com today, and learn how we can help you shoot in China.