Filming Facility:
General Information About Filming in Panama
Panama has several film schools, including the Panama Film Institute, which offers courses in screenwriting, cinematography, and film production. The country also has several film commissions, which assist filmmakers in obtaining permits and finding locations to shoot their films.
Overall, while the media industry and the photo, video, TV, and film industry in Panama are not as developed as in some other countries, they are growing and offer opportunities for both local and foreign professionals.
World Production Service is your trusted production resource for all your photo, video, documentary, TV and film production needs, anywhere in the world. Our comprehensive range of services covers every aspect of production, from conceptualization to post-production, for both factual and branded content, ensuring a seamless experience for our clients. With extensive experience in producing all types of projects, including corporate videos, photography, documentaries, TV shows, and film productions, we are committed to providing top-quality visual content that exceeds your expectations.
With our strong presence in Panama and a wide network of professional photo and film crew, we are well-equipped to cater to your production requirements in the region. Whether you require a full-service production or just a fraction of it, we offer end-to-end solutions starting from scratch or support your shoot in Panama. Choose World Production Service for a successful production experience, every time.
World Production Service offers a diverse range of production services, including but not limited to: film production service, video production service, photo production service, documentary production service, TV production service, production service, TV commercial production service, branded video production service, and local production support service in Panama. Our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to providing exceptional quality and ensuring that your production needs are met with precision and care. No matter what your production requirements may be, you can rely on World Production Service to deliver outstanding results and unparalleled support throughout the entire production process in Panama. Weather in Panama
Panama has a tropical climate, which means it is hot and humid year-round. The country has a rainy season from May to November, and a dry season from December to April. Temperatures typically range from around 25°C (77°F) to 33°C (91°F) throughout the year.
The best filming season in Panama depends on the type of production and the location. The dry season (December to April) is generally considered the best time to film outdoor scenes, as the weather is drier and there is less chance of rain disrupting filming. However, during the dry season, the heat and humidity can be quite intense, which can make filming challenging, especially for outdoor scenes.
The rainy season (May to November) can be more challenging for filming, as there is a higher chance of rain and thunderstorms. However, this season can also offer some advantages for filmmakers, such as lush green landscapes and lower costs for equipment rentals and crew.
In general, the best time to film in Panama is during the transitional months between the rainy and dry seasons (April and May, and November and December). During these months, the weather is typically mild, and there is less chance of rain disrupting filming. It’s also important to note that certain regions of Panama may have slightly different weather patterns, so it’s best to check the weather conditions for the specific filming location.
Locations in Panama
Panama offers a variety of beautiful and diverse filming locations, ranging from lush rainforests to modern cities and historic landmarks. Here are some of the best filming locations in Panama:
Panama Canal:
The Panama Canal is a marvel of engineering and a major landmark in Panama. Filmmakers can capture the massive ships passing through the canal or explore the surrounding areas, such as the Miraflores Locks and the Panama Canal Museum.
Old Panama City:
The historic district of Panama City, known as Casco Viejo, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with beautiful colonial architecture, charming streets, and vibrant colors. It’s an excellent filming location for period pieces or movies with a historical backdrop.
Bocas del Toro:
This archipelago in the Caribbean Sea features pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and colorful coral reefs. It’s an ideal filming location for movies and shows that require stunning beach scenes.
San Blas Islands:
The San Blas Islands are a group of over 350 small islands off the Caribbean coast of Panama. These islands offer breathtaking views of white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and traditional Kuna villages.
Coiba Island:
Coiba Island is a nature reserve and a UNESCO World Heritage Site with an abundance of wildlife, including rare and endangered species. Filmmakers can capture stunning views of the island’s rugged landscapes, beaches, and clear waters.
Panama City:
Panama City is a modern and cosmopolitan city with a skyline that features a mix of sleek skyscrapers and historic landmarks. It’s an excellent filming location for movies and shows that require urban settings.
Overall, Panama offers a variety of stunning locations that can cater to different types of productions, from period dramas to modern thrillers, and everything in between.
Studio Rental and Film Backlots in Panama
Photo, video, TV, and film studios rental and film backlots in Panama are available, but the options are relatively limited compared to more established production hubs. However, there are some studios and backlots available that can cater to different types of productions.
Some of the photo, video, TV, and film studios available for rent in Panama include:
Taller 5:
Taller 5 is a production studio located in Panama City that offers a variety of services, including studio rental, equipment rental, post-production, and animation.
BDC Films:
BDC Films is a production company based in Panama that offers studio rental and production services, including casting, location scouting, and crew hiring.
Cinegrupo:
Cinegrupo is a production company and studio located in Panama City that offers a range of production services, including studio rental, equipment rental, and post-production.
In addition to studios, there are also a few film backlots available in Panama that can be used for filming:
Central America Backlot:
The Central America Backlot is located in Panama and offers a range of film sets and backdrops, including a western town, a medieval castle, and a modern cityscape.
Santa Maria Studios:
Santa Maria Studios is a production complex located in Panama City that includes a backlot with a variety of sets and backdrops, including a western town, a pirate village, and a jungle setting.
While the options for studios and backlots in Panama are limited compared to other locations, the country offers a unique blend of natural and urban locations that can be utilized for filming, making it an attractive destination for filmmakers.
Advanced Filming Cities in Panama
Panama is a relatively small country with a developing film industry, so the options for photo, video, TV, and film facilities are limited compared to more established production hubs. However, the city of Panama City is the main hub for production in Panama, and it offers the most advanced photo, video, TV, and film facilities in the country.
Here are some cities in Panama with comparatively more advanced photo, video, TV, and film facilities:
Panama City:
As the capital and largest city in Panama, Panama City is home to the majority of the country’s production facilities, including studios, equipment rental, post-production, and animation services. The city also has a range of urban and natural filming locations, including the Panama Canal, historic landmarks, modern skyscrapers, and pristine beaches.
David:
David is the second-largest city in Panama and is located in the western province of Chiriqui. While not as developed as Panama City, David has a growing film industry and offers some production facilities and services, including equipment rental and location scouting. The city also has a range of natural filming locations, including rainforests, waterfalls, and beaches.
Colon:
Colon is a city located on the Caribbean coast of Panama and is home to the Panama Canal’s Atlantic entrance. While not as developed as Panama City, Colon offers some production facilities and services, including studios and equipment rental. The city also has a range of filming locations, including the Panama Canal, historic landmarks, and beaches.
Overall, Panama City is the main hub for production in Panama and offers the most advanced photo, video, TV, and film facilities in the country. However, other cities in Panama, such as David and Colon, also offer some production facilities and unique filming locations that can be utilized for different types of productions.
Past Productions in Panama
Panama has a relatively small film industry, but there have been several notable films produced in the country over the years. Here are some films that were produced in Panama:
Salsipuedes (2016):
Salsipuedes is a drama film directed by Ricardo Aguilar Navarro and Manolito Rodríguez. The film was shot entirely in Panama and follows the story of a young couple who must confront their past and present to build a future together.
Invasión (2014):
Invasión is a documentary film directed by Abner Benaim that explores the 1989 U.S. invasion of Panama. The film uses archival footage and interviews with Panamanians to examine the impact of the invasion on the country’s history and identity.
Chance (2009):
Chance is a drama film directed by Abner Benaim that was shot entirely in Panama. The film follows the story of a young man who must confront his past and make a choice between love and ambition.
The Tailor (2005):
The Tailor is a drama film directed by Miguel Cohan that was shot in Panama and Argentina. The film follows the story of a tailor who is forced to confront his past and his relationship with his son.
Los Orishas en Cuba (1950):
Los Orishas en Cuba is a documentary film directed by Alberto T. Spottorno that explores the Afro-Cuban religion of Santeria. While the film was shot in Cuba, it was co-produced by a Panamanian production company and is considered one of the earliest examples of a Panamanian film production.
Overall, while the film industry in Panama is relatively small, there have been several notable films produced in the country that explore a range of themes and genres.
Cost of Filming in Panama
The cost of filming in Panama can vary depending on the specific requirements of each production. However, generally speaking, filming in Panama is relatively affordable compared to neighboring countries like Costa Rica and Colombia.
Some factors that contribute to the lower cost of filming in Panama include:
Lower labor costs:
Labor costs in Panama are generally lower than in neighboring countries, which can help to reduce the overall cost of a production.
Tax incentives:
Panama offers tax incentives for film productions that meet certain criteria, which can help to offset some of the production costs.
Affordable production services:
Production services in Panama, including equipment rental, location scouting, and post-production, are generally affordable compared to neighboring countries.
Competitive exchange rate:
The Panamanian balboa is pegged to the US dollar, which means that foreign production companies can take advantage of a favorable exchange rate when filming in Panama.
Overall, while the cost of filming in Panama can vary depending on the specific requirements of each production, it is generally more affordable compared to neighboring countries. This, coupled with Panama’s unique blend of natural and urban filming locations, makes it an attractive destination for filmmakers looking for a cost-effective location to film.
Sensitive Regions in Panama
When filming in Panama, it is important to be aware of and sensitive to the local customs, traditions, and laws of the region. Additionally, there are some areas in Panama that are more sensitive or restricted for filming due to security, cultural, or environmental reasons. Here are some sensitive regions for filming in Panama:
Indigenous territories:
Panama is home to several indigenous groups, and their territories are protected by law. Filming in these areas may require special permits and the involvement of local authorities and communities. It is important to respect their customs and traditions and obtain proper permissions before filming.
Protected areas:
Panama has several national parks, nature reserves, and protected areas that are ecologically sensitive and require special permissions for filming. These areas may have restrictions on the use of drones, vehicles, and equipment to protect the environment and wildlife.
Security zones:
Some areas in Panama, such as the Panama Canal Zone and the border regions with Colombia and Costa Rica, may have security restrictions and require special permissions for filming.
Urban areas:
When filming in urban areas, it is important to obtain proper permits and permissions from local authorities to avoid legal issues and disruptions to daily life.
It is important to do thorough research and consult with local authorities and production services before filming in Panama to ensure compliance with local laws and regulations and to avoid any unintended negative impacts on local communities and environments.
Filming Permit in Panama
Filming Permit
When filming in Panama, it is generally required to obtain permits from the relevant authorities. The specific permits required may vary depending on the location and nature of the filming. Here are some common permits required for filming in Panama:
General permit:
A general permit is required for all film productions in Panama. This permit is issued by the National Directorate of Artistic and Cultural Affairs and covers general production activities, including location scouting, filming, and post-production.
Location permits:
Location permits are required for filming in public areas, including parks, streets, and government buildings. These permits are issued by the local authorities, and fees may vary depending on the location and duration of the filming.
Drone permits:
If you plan to use drones for filming, you will need to obtain a permit from the Panama Civil Aviation Authority. The permit covers safety and security concerns, including airspace restrictions and pilot certifications.
Filming in protected areas:
If you plan to film in national parks, nature reserves, or other protected areas, you will need to obtain permits from the relevant environmental authorities.
Permits for special effects:
If your production involves special effects, such as explosions or pyrotechnics, you may need to obtain additional permits from the relevant authorities.
It is important to plan ahead and allow sufficient time to obtain the necessary permits before beginning filming in Panama. It is also recommended to work with a local production services company that can help navigate the permit process and ensure compliance with local laws and regulations.
Visas for foreign crew
Foreign film crew members who plan to work in Panama may require a work visa to enter and remain in the country legally. The specific visa requirements depend on the nationality of the crew member and the length and nature of their stay in Panama.
Here are some common visa options for foreign film crew working in Panama:
Tourism visa:
Citizens from many countries are allowed to enter Panama as tourists without a visa for a period of up to 180 days. This may be sufficient for crew members who plan to work on a short-term project that does not require a work visa.
Work visa:
For longer-term projects, foreign crew members may require a work visa to legally work in Panama. The visa application process may vary depending on the nature of the work and the country of origin of the crew member. It is recommended to work with a local production services company that can assist with the visa application process and provide guidance on the specific requirements.
Special visa for cultural, artistic or sports activities:
In some cases, foreign film crew members may be able to obtain a special visa for cultural, artistic, or sports activities. This visa is intended for individuals who are participating in cultural or artistic events in Panama and may be applicable for foreign crew members working on a film production.
It is important to note that visa requirements and regulations may change over time, so it is recommended to check with the Panamanian embassy or consulate in your home country for the most up-to-date information on visa requirements for film crew members
Crew in Panama
The level of professionalism among film crews in Panama can vary depending on the specific crew and production. However, Panama does have a growing film industry and many experienced and skilled crew members are available for hire. Many of the crew members have experience working on international productions and are able to work in a variety of genres and styles.
The cost of hiring a film crew in Panama can vary depending on the size and complexity of the production, as well as the experience and reputation of the crew members. In general, Panama is considered to be a cost-effective filming destination, with production costs that are lower than many other countries in the region.
Most film crew members in Panama speak Spanish, which is the official language of the country. However, many crew members also speak English, especially in larger cities and in the film industry. It is recommended to hire a local production services company that can provide bilingual support and assist with communication between the crew and local authorities.
The number of hours included in each shooting day can vary depending on the specific production and the agreement between the production team and the crew members. In general, a standard shooting day in Panama is 10 hours, but longer days can be negotiated depending on the specific needs of the production. It is important to ensure that all crew members are compensated fairly for their time and work in accordance with local labor laws and regulations.
World Production Service is your one-stop-shop for all production needs in Panama. We have an extensive network of top-notch photo, video, TV, and film crews as well as established relationships with leading production companies, media and casting agencies, and other service providers in Panama.
We can rapidly assemble an exceptional production team in Panama that is tailored to your production requirements, be it factual, branded, frictional or educational content. Whether you need a photo crew, video crew, TV crew, or film crew, we can provide you with the best professionals in the industry.
Additionally, we offer a variety of production companies to choose from, including film production company, video production company, photo production company, documentary production company, TV production company, TV commercial production company, and branded video production company in Panama. Our goal is to ensure that we meet all your production needs and deliver results that exceed your expectations.
With World Production Service, you can be sure that your production needs will be taken care of seamlessly and professionally in Panama.
Art Department in Panama
The level of quality of the art department in the film industry in Panama can vary depending on the specific production and the budget available for the art department. However, there are many talented and experienced art department professionals in Panama who are capable of producing high-quality work.
The art direction in Panama is often influenced by the country’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, and there are many talented art directors who are able to create visually stunning sets and environments for film productions. Set construction in Panama is also generally of a good quality, with many skilled carpenters and set builders available for hire.
In terms of props making, Panama may not have as extensive of a prop-making industry as some other countries, but there are still many talented prop makers and artisans who are able to create unique and authentic props for film productions. Many of these artisans are skilled in traditional crafts, such as weaving, pottery, and wood carving, which can add a unique and authentic touch to film productions.
Overall, while the size of the art department industry in Panama may be smaller than some other countries, there are still many talented and skilled professionals available who are capable of producing high-quality work for film productions. It is recommended to work with a local production services company that can help connect you with the best art department professionals in Panama for your specific project.
Equipment Rental in Panama
Local Equipment Rental
Panama has a variety of equipment rental companies that provide photo, video, TV, and film equipment for productions. Some of the leading equipment rental companies in Panama include:
CineLab:
CineLab is a full-service equipment rental company that offers a wide range of photo, video, TV, and film equipment. They have a large inventory of equipment, including cameras, lenses, lighting, grip gear, and sound equipment.
Sistemas Audiovisuales:
Sistemas Audiovisuales is another popular equipment rental company in Panama that offers a variety of photo, video, TV, and film equipment. They have a wide selection of cameras, lenses, lighting equipment, and sound gear, as well as production support equipment such as tripods, dollies, and jibs.
BodaFilms:
BodaFilms is a specialized equipment rental company that focuses on providing equipment for weddings and other events. However, they also offer some photo, video, TV, and film equipment, including cameras, lenses, and lighting gear.
Proactiva:
Proactiva is a production services company that offers a range of services, including equipment rental. They have a variety of photo, video, TV, and film equipment available for rent, including cameras, lenses, lighting, and sound gear.
VideoPro:
VideoPro is another equipment rental company in Panama that specializes in photo, video, TV, and film equipment. They have a large inventory of equipment, including cameras, lenses, lighting gear, and sound equipment.
The equipment rental rates in Panama can vary depending on the specific equipment, the duration of the rental, and the availability of the equipment. It is recommended to work with a local production services company that can help you find the best equipment rental options for your specific project and budget.
Bringing Equipment into Panama
If you are traveling into Panama with film equipment, it is recommended to carry an ATA Carnet, which is an international customs document that allows you to temporarily import goods into a foreign country without paying duties or taxes. An ATA Carnet covers a range of goods, including film and TV production equipment, and can be used for multiple trips over a period of up to one year.
To obtain an ATA Carnet, you will need to apply for one in your home country before traveling to Panama. You will also need to provide a detailed list of the equipment you are bringing with you, along with their values and serial numbers. It is important to note that the ATA Carnet only covers equipment that is being temporarily imported into Panama and will be re-exported within the designated time period.
When traveling into Panama with film equipment, it is also recommended to work with a local production services company that can assist with customs clearance and transportation of the equipment. They can help ensure that all necessary permits and paperwork are in order and that your equipment is transported safely and efficiently.
Talents and Casting in Panama
There are talent and casting agencies in Panama. Some of the well-known talent and casting agencies in Panama are:
Talent Factory Panama
Casting Panama
Studio F.I. Panama
ATO Casting Agency
S.O.S. Talentos
These agencies provide services for actors, models, musicians, and other entertainment industry professionals. They can help with finding casting opportunities, arranging auditions, and negotiating contracts. However, it’s important to research each agency before signing with them to ensure they have a good reputation and track record.
Post-production and Animation/VFX in Panama
Panama has a small but growing film industry, and post-production and animation/VFX services are available in the country. Some local production companies and studios provide these services, and there are also freelance professionals who specialize in post-production and animation/VFX.
However, it’s important to note that Panama’s film industry is still developing, and as such, the availability and quality of post-production and animation/VFX services may not be as advanced as in other countries. It’s also possible that some productions may choose to outsource these services to other countries with more established industries.