Student filming
Here to help
The Essex Film Office supports and encourages the development of regional film from helping to negotiate the cost of filming permits for student productions, to signposting career and training opportunities.
If you are a student and are looking to film in Essex, you can contact us by using the form below or browse some helpful frequently asked questions.
Planning your shoot
I want to film on location in Essex, but don’t know where to start
The Essex Film Office can help you navigate the approval process for filming on location. To film your production in Essex, you will need to follow these steps:
- Read the Filming in Essex Codes of Practice
- Decide on the best location for filming. If you want to film on private land, you will need to identify the landowner. If you are unsure, let the Essex Film Office know, we might have it on our database.
- Contact the Film Office using the Student Filming Application form. The more the information you can provide, the faster and more efficiently we can help you.
How should I start planning my shoot
When considering a filming project, it is important to consider some factors, in particular where you want to film.
If you are looking to film in Essex’s public spaces such as roads, pavements, footpaths, parks or beaches then you will need a permit.
If you are planning to film at a private property you will need to find out who owns the property and ask their permission. The Essex Film Office is here to support you and can help in finding and securing your perfect location.
What documents will I need?
When applying to filming on location in Essex you will need to submit the following documents:
- Student Filming Application form
- A copy of a valid Certificate of Public Liability Insurance. If you are a student in higher or further education, your college or university is likely to have PL insurance cover which covers you whilst filming as part of your course. If you do not have this, ask your tutor for a copy.
- Risk Assessment – you can see an example of a risk assessment form here
- A method statement where necessary. This is an outline of what you intend to do on site and how you will do it. If you are filming in a private residence or site of historical importance for example, this provides the property owner withs some reassurance that your intended activity will be carried out in a responsible and safe way.
I have permission to film, what should I to do now?
Once you have obtained the permissions to film you will need to consider any residential or commercial addresses near to where you are filming and draft a notification letter which explains what you are going to do, when it will take place and how it will impact the residents or businesses. You should distribute this letter at least five working days prior to your proposed filming date to allow for feedback from residents or businesses.
It’s all about the timing
When planning your shoot it is important to remember that the application process may take up to two weeks, however you should allow at least one month before your shoot is scheduled to take place.
If your project will involve children, animals, actors playing policemen, real or imitation weapons, special effects, fires, moving vehicles, staging of a crime, filming at night or interrupting traffic on roads and paths, you will need to allow extra time for your application to be processed.
If you are unsure on how to proceed or simply need any further advice contact the Film Office: film@essex.gov.uk
