What To Expect From Doing Media Production In Mexico
Mexico is one of the most offering countries on earth when it comes to filming and producing video content of all sorts. Media production in Mexico is pretty straightforward, and usually hustle-free if you know the rules of the game. What to expect from it? We’re about to find out.
What to expect from media production in Mexico
When it comes to media production in Mexico, you can expect a great deal of professionalism and a rare opportunity to find every possible scenario you want in one country. Mexico is one of the most important countries in the Americas, making it a vast and affordable place for your video cameras. First and foremost, you can expect professionalism from your ground crew while in Mexico. Most people speak great English and you’ll have no problems understanding one another. If language barriers do come up, hiring a translator is as easy as making a phone call.
Probably one of the most important features of media production in Mexico financially is the zero tax applied on video products. If your production company is from outside the country, you don’t pay a VAT, as the final product is considered an export. You will only pay for a filming permit if you’re filming in a public place, or for a fee, if you’re shooting in a private location. This is all up to you, of course. Some locations don’t even require you to pay for a permit. Many public places, such as squares or parks, are free for all to enjoy and film at.
Do notify local authorities if you’re planning on organizing a larger shoot. Police and other local authorities will help you with securing your filming zone properly. Finally, many Mexican cities or regions offer incentives to filming crews. This is because they want to promote their attractions, and will often offer crews free accommodation and guidance.
Top three Mexico filming locations
What are the best places to shoot while you’re working on your media production in Mexico? We’ll start with the obvious, Ciudad de Mexico, or Mexico City. The capital city of Mexico is the main hub for culture, innovation, tradition, and everything else in the country. Start here and make your way around the country, after you’ve visited the main sights. Taste the local cuisine, and speak to the many figures that are so crucial to the heritage of the country.
Right outside the city is Teotihuacán, an ancient ruin that’s accessible to all filming crew regardless of their budgets. Speaking of ruins, you’ll probably want to shoot at the world-famous locations like Chichen Itza, but be aware. Crowds here are huge, and if you want to film without any people in your shots, you’ll need a serious permit which can cost thousands of dollars. If you can take a few strangers in your shots, then you’ll be allowed to film for a much cheaper filming permit. Scheduling is key.