Studio or Location Video Production: Tips to Make the Right Choice

stlouisvideocrew ♦ February 6, 2025 ♦ Leave a comment

When it comes to video production, businesses and organizations face an important decision: should they opt for a studio setting or shoot on location? Both studio and location shoots have their distinct advantages and challenges, making it essential to carefully evaluate your project’s needs before making a decision. In this blog, we will explore the factors that influence the choice between studio and location video production and provide tips on how to make the right choice for your next production.

Understanding the Differences Between Studio and Location Production

Studio Video Production Studio video production takes place in a controlled, indoor environment where every aspect of the production is customized to suit your vision. It typically involves a private studio space equipped with controlled lighting setups, backdrops, and the flexibility to adapt the environment as needed.

Location Video Production Location video production, on the other hand, takes place in a real-world setting, such as a business office, outdoor environment, or other meaningful spaces. Shooting on location allows you to capture the authenticity of a setting, creating an immersive experience for viewers. It’s ideal for storytelling that requires a sense of place and context.

Key Considerations for Choosing the Right Type of Shoot

1. Purpose of the Video

What is the goal of your video?

• Studio production: If your video requires specific lighting setups, controlled environments, or intricate camera work, a studio is often the best choice. Studio shoots are ideal for corporate interviews, training videos, product demonstrations, or videos that need a controlled look.
• Location production: If your video is focused on authenticity or needs to showcase a particular location (e.g., an office space, factory, or outdoor environment), location production offers the real-world atmosphere necessary to tell the story effectively.

2. Creative Control and Flexibility

• Studio production: Studios provide a high level of creative control. You can design the set, select the lighting, and manage the environment with precision, ensuring your vision is brought to life exactly as intended. If you need a more dynamic setup that includes props or custom lighting, a studio setting gives you complete freedom.
• Location production: Location shoots require you to adapt to the environment. While this can provide organic and natural footage, it can also present challenges with lighting, weather, and unpredictable elements that could affect the production schedule.

3. Budget and Logistics

• Studio production: Studios are generally more cost-effective when it comes to complex, controlled productions. The ability to stay in one place for the entire shoot can help reduce costs related to travel and permits.
• Location production: Location shoots can be more expensive due to travel, permits, and additional setup costs. However, if your concept demands a specific location, the investment may be worthwhile for the authenticity it adds to the final product.

4. Time Constraints

• Studio production: The time required to set up and shoot in a studio is often shorter since everything is prepared in advance. With a private studio space, there are no surprises, which helps keep the production on schedule.
• Location production: Location shoots tend to have more logistical challenges, from traffic to weather issues. Outdoor shoots, for example, are subject to environmental conditions that can cause delays. Planning for extra time may be necessary to account for unforeseen obstacles.

5. Type of Video Content

• Studio production: For corporate interviews, professional headshots, internal training videos, and product demonstrations, a studio setting is often more efficient and effective. The controlled lighting and ability to manage the background ensure that your video looks polished and consistent.
• Location production: For brand commercials, lifestyle videos, or storytelling that emphasizes a unique setting, location production will add significant value. A location-based video lets you show off the real-world aspects of your business, product, or service, which resonates well with audiences looking for authenticity.

The Best of Both Worlds: Combining Studio and Location Production

In many cases, the best solution is a hybrid approach that combines studio and location shooting. For example, you could film interviews or talking-head segments in a studio and then head to an outdoor or on-location setting for additional footage that ties into the story.

Why St Louis Video Crew is the Right Choice for Your Next Production

When you work with St Louis Video Crew, you’re partnering with a company that has been providing expert commercial photography and video production services in the St. Louis area since 1982. Our team specializes in both studio and location shoots, providing the flexibility to customize your production based on your unique needs.

Whether you’re looking for the controlled environment of a studio or the authentic setting of a location, St Louis Video Crew has the right equipment and experience to make your vision a reality. We offer full-service studio and location video and photography, as well as editing, post-production, and licensed drone pilots to capture stunning aerial footage for your project.

We understand the importance of repurposing your photography and video branding to gain more traction in the market. Our team is well-versed in all file types, media styles, and accompanying software, ensuring your content meets the highest standards.

Our private studio offers the perfect setting for small productions and interview scenes, and we can customize it with props and visual setups to complement your brand’s look. Additionally, we have the equipment to fly specialized drones indoors, allowing us to capture breathtaking footage from angles that others simply can’t.

St Louis Video Crew’s extensive experience working with businesses, marketing firms, and agencies in the St. Louis area means we can handle every part of your production, from private custom interview studio setups to providing sound and camera operators. With us, you get more than just a video—you get a tailored production that aligns with your brand and message.

Let us help make your next video production perfect. Contact St Louis Video Crew today to learn more about our studio and location services and how we can bring your vision to life.

314-913-5626 stlouisvideocrew@gmail.com