London Event Video

How to Plan Video at an Event in London

Filming an event in London? 🎥 Whether it’s a corporate conference, trade show, or awards ceremony, planning your event video production in the capital comes with unique challenges. From navigating the congestion charge to securing filming permits, here’s everything you need to know to make your London event video shoot a success.

Parking Considerations 🚗

London isn’t the most car-friendly city, especially when transporting heavy video equipment. Before you arrive, check your venue’s parking facilities:
Loading bays & access times – Some venues only allow vehicle access during specific hours for loading and unloading.
Pre-booking parking spaces – Many central London venues require advance booking for on-site parking.
Nearby public car parks – Apps like JustPark or Parkopedia can help you find and pre-book parking spots close to your venue.

For large-scale productions, you may need to apply for a temporary parking suspension through the local council if you require street parking.

The London Congestion Charge 🏙️

If your event is in central London, you’ll likely enter the Congestion Charge zone. Here’s what you need to know:

Operating hours: Monday to Friday, 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM, and weekends 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM.
Cost: £15 per day per vehicle.
Avoiding the charge: Some vehicles (e.g., electric) are exempt. Check eligibility on the Transport for London (TfL) website.
Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ): If your vehicle isn’t ULEZ-compliant, you may face additional charges. At London Event video, our vans are ULEZ compliant.

Plan ahead and budget accordingly to avoid last-minute surprises.

Venue Filming Rules 🎭

Not all venues allow unrestricted filming, so check their policies in advance:

On-site filming fees – Some venues charge for commercial filming, even if you’re covering an event.
Lighting & setup restrictions – Be aware of any limits on tripods, lighting rigs, or drones.
Venue branding rules – Some locations may require brand placements to be approved before filming.
Exclusive media rights – Certain venues have contracts with specific media partners, meaning you might need special permission to film.

Always communicate with the venue’s event manager early to avoid any surprises on the day.

Filming Permits for Outdoor Shots 📜

Planning to film outside near London’s famous landmarks? You may need a permit. Here’s where to start:

Greater London Authority (GLA) – Covers Trafalgar Square, Parliament Square, and other public areas.
City of London Corporation – For shoots within the Square Mile.
Royal Parks – If filming in Hyde Park, Regent’s Park, or other royal spaces.
Borough Councils – Each borough has its own policies, so check if you need local approval.

If you’re filming a quick cutaway shot with a handheld camera, you might not need a permit. But for tripods, drones, or larger setups, always check ahead.

Hiring Local Crew & Equipment 🎬

Bringing a full production team into London isn’t always practical. Instead, consider hiring a local videography team to reduce travel costs and ensure they’re familiar with London’s filming rules.

Local videographers – London has a pool of experienced professionals who understand the city’s challenges. And if you want the best, London Event Video is an excellent choice—we know the ins and outs of filming in London like no one else! 😉
Camera & equipment rental – Renting gear in London can be more cost-effective than transporting your own.
Live streaming services – If your event requires real-time broadcasting, ensure your crew has experience with high-speed internet solutions at London venues.

Security & Equipment Safety 🔒

Filming in a busy city like London means keeping your gear secure:

Ensure a locked room for equipment – Work with your venue to provide a secure, dedicated space for storing cameras, lighting, and accessories.
Have a team member watch equipment – When setting up in public spaces, always have someone monitoring your gear.
Check venue security measures – Some venues offer secure storage for high-value equipment.
Designate an editing area – Your video team will need a quiet, dedicated space to work on edits throughout the event.
Consider insurance – For peace of mind, ensure your gear is covered against theft or damage.