Studios, facilities and independent producers gathered yesterday (30 June) for Film London’s Studios and Facilities Showcase at 180 Studios, The Strand.

Now its second year, the event put 14 studios and facilities – big and small – in front of independent producers to make connections and understand the opportunities for working together.

Producers heard from leading suppliers of specialist equipment, costumes and lighting, through to established studios and relative newcomers. There was a helpful explainer on Enhanced AVEC from the BFI’s Chris Halliday, and an industry overview from Film London’s Adrian Wootton OBE.

While each studio and facilities house has a unique offer, a number of themes emerged – here are our top takeaways:

Independents are wanted and welcome

There’s a collective enthusiasm to make spaces and services viable for indies and to drive production. This applies to big and small operators alike – they are affordable, approachable and there are deals to be had. Early conversations often include trouble-shooting and scoping advice and help producers get the most for their money. The refrain of the day: “Pick up the phone, give us a call.”

The range is fantastic

With a wide range of adaptable space options and studio sizes available, London accommodates all types of production, from big budget features to music videos, shorts and immersive podcasts. Alongside state-of-the art facilities, production office spaces and workshops, studios are often supported by industry-based tenants, creating in-built efficiencies and a sense of community.

Sustainability runs through everything

This applies to green credentials (think low energy lighting and EV power, rainwater roof collections, schemes to reuse and recycle, and partnerships minimising food waste) – and also to growing and diversifying the workforce, through bridging gaps with FE colleges and dedicated apprenticeship schemes.

Virtual and tech are thriving

Changing technology is making virtual production easier to use – it’s particularly popular with car shoots, making it possible to shoot multiple vehicles and scenes in a very short timeframe. Studios and facilities are exploring new ways to leverage AI, while new digital products are streamlining the production process.

Attendees said:

“It’s really useful to see all the different facilities and studios together – and great to hear everyone talk about wanting to work with indies – not just about fitting into vacant spaces but with an actual focus on getting indies through the door.”

“Technology is changing so fast so it’s good to have all the information in front of you. It’s good to see how I could work with the studios, that I can talk to these people. And that people who deal with huge productions are open to dialogue.”

“The thing I’ve found most useful is putting faces to names and names to studios. I also really liked the variety – it’s really helpful that the information is targeted specifically at producers too.”

Studios and facilities present included:

180 Studios, Angels Costumes, Ealing Studios, Eastbrook Studios, Elstree Studios, Facilities by ADF, Film Soho, Garden Studios, Location Collective & OMA Studio Group, MBS Equipment Co, Pinewood Studios Group, RD Studios, Troubadour Studios, Warner Bros Studios Leavesden.