About Pittsburgh
Residents of Pittsburgh are privileged to enjoy the cultural treasures, steel industry, and film production companies that grace their city. Home to numerous museums and television/film production houses, it's no wonder why this Pennsylvania metropolis is a popular destination for movie sets in the United States.
Pittsburgh is an excellent destination for filmmakers looking to capture unique shots and take advantage of the diverse architecture and neighborhoods. From steel mills to mountains, Pittsburgh has lots of potential locations that can create amazing visuals. The city offers plenty of opportunity for exterior filming locations with its natural scenery, including rivers and hills, as well as urban areas like downtown Pittsburgh. Downtown Pittsburgh alone offers 446 buildings with different architectural styles like painted wood structures from early settlers, ornate mansions from wealthy industrialists, contemporary office towers, and more!
Filming Options in Pittsburgh
- Production
For filming at locations in Pittsburgh, production will involve the use of a professional film crew. This crew will include an experienced director, camera operators, gaffers, grips, sound technicians, and production assistants. The crew will be responsible for ensuring all necessary equipment is brought to each location and that all necessary permits are obtained prior to filming.
- Props
Depending on the specific scene being filmed in Pittsburgh, props may need to be sourced from local costume shops or rented from prop houses. These props should accurately reflect the era and culture of Pittsburgh to ensure authenticity in the finished product. Props could range from clothing items such as flapper dresses or vintage hats to furniture pieces or objects needed for particular scenes.
- Directors
Finding directors who are familiar with the city of Pittsburgh is key when it comes to filmmaking in this location. Local directors can help create a more authentic feel by utilizing local talent while also understanding the most photogenic areas of town. Additionally, directors should have extensive experience in both pre-production planning and overseeing all aspects of production on set to ensure smooth filming procedures at every location.
Filming Vendors in Pittsburgh
- The Fluted Mushroom Catering
The Fluted Mushroom is well-known for its quirky and inventive cuisine that’s creatively presented. On-set catering is one of the offerings of The Fluted Mushroom, which has been providing excellent dishes and service since 1972. Peg Deiseroth started the business and it is still family run.
- WDO Photography
At WDO Photography, services include event photography, headshots, family photos, and product photography. WDO Photography is not only affordable and professional, but they also offer classes to teach the community about photography. This way, you can be sure that your photographers know what they’re talking about.
- Ultimate Entertaining
Sean Edinger has been a professional DJ for over 20 years, playing at venues all around Pittsburgh. With a whole host of professional equipment, an on-set DJ, a character for a scene, or someone to play at the wrap party — Ultimate Entertaining has talent and expertise.
Pros and Cons of Filming locations in Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has become a popular filming destination for many film and television projects. With its diverse range of locations, ranging from urban to rural settings, the city offers a unique backdrop to capture the perfect shot. While there are definite pros and cons to filming at locations in Pittsburgh, it is essential to consider both sides before deciding.
Advantages
- With everything from industrial districts and modern skyscrapers to lush green parks and historic buildings, there is something for everyone when it comes to finding the perfect location for your project.
- The cost of shooting in Pittsburgh is often lower than in other major cities, offering production companies significant savings on their budgets.
- Home to several colleges and universities as well as numerous acting schools, Pittsburgh boasts a large pool of talent from which filmmakers can draw when casting their projects.
Disadvantages
- Due to limited space available in specific locations around town, productions may have difficulty scheduling shoots due to other competing shows also vying for the same spot.
- Its unpredictable weather patterns, sudden storms, and extreme temperatures can cause unexpected delays or canceled shoots if proper precautions aren’t taken ahead of time.
- Depending on the type of production being filmed and the specific location being used, filmmakers may be required by local authorities or organizations.
Tips on How to Organize Filming at Locations in Pittsburgh
Filming in Pittsburgh can be an exciting and rewarding experience. However, organizing the logistics of filming at multiple locations can be a daunting task. To help make the process run more smoothly, here are some tips on how to organize filming at different locations in Pittsburgh.
- Make sure you have enough time to get from location to location, set up each scene properly, and coordinate any necessary props or equipment. Take into account local regulations such as parking restrictions and permit requirements.
- Check any rules or restrictions applicable when filming at specific locations. Be sure to secure all necessary permits before shooting begins to avoid any problems during production.
- Depending on the size and complexity of your project, you may need additional staff, such as security personnel or backup crew members. Make sure you’re prepared with an adequate number of people who know their roles and responsibilities at each location.
- Make sure everyone involved is on the same page in terms of where they need to be and when they need to be there and keep everyone informed throughout the entire production process, so no one gets left behind or confused about their duties.
Famous Locations in Pittsburgh
- The Brookhaven, Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium
The Brookhaven is an educational facility at the Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium that offers unique opportunities for visitors to learn about the natural world and the zoo’s animals. The Brookhaven features a range of interactive exhibits, hands-on activities, and live animal demonstrations designed to engage and educate visitors of all ages. In addition to this, The Brookhaven provides several activities and events that are ideal for corporate groups, families with children, and school excursions. If you want to know more about the zoo's animals or have a great day out, look no further than The Brookhaven!
- Heinz Hall for the Performing Arts
Heinz Hall for the Performing Arts is an expression of elegance and provides a calendar full of musical experiences and events that never fail to impress. The hall, located in downtown Pittsburgh, is also known as a cultural hub or entertainment center. The Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, led by Manfred Honeck, puts on over 200 performances a year at this venue. The Heinz Hall is a must-visit destination in Pittsburgh because of the wide variety of programming put on by the Pittsburgh Youth Symphony Orchestra as well.
- Duquesne Incline
The Duquesne Incline is one of the few remaining inclines in the country and offers visitors a chance to step back in time. The Incline originally opened to the public in 1877 as part of Pittsburgh's original transportation system. Local townspeople saved it from demolition in 1963, fully restoring it so that today, almost 60 years later, it continues to delight visitors. The upper station offers an excellent view of Brookhaven and the city. You can also go to a museum about Pittsburgh's history. Although the Observation Platform at the upper station and the historic Incline cars are wheelchair accessible, there are several stairs between the parking area and the lower station.