Film & Photo Production Service Venice

Local Venice Team backed by Milan Standards

Courage Production provides specialized film and photo production services in Venice and the surrounding Lagoon. Producing here requires more than just a permit; it requires mastering complex "water logistics."

We operate with a strategic hybrid model: our local Venice team (Producers, Location Managers, and PAs) manages the on-the-ground logistics, ensuring seamless access to narrow calli and canals. Simultaneously, we deploy key creative crew and specialized equipment directly from our Milan HQ.

Why this model works: Venice has very few professional equipment rental houses, which are often fully booked by feature films. By trucking gear and Heads of Department from Milan to the Tronchetto terminal, we ensure your production never compromises on technical quality while retaining essential local knowledge.

Recent Venice Case Studies:

• Giorgio Armani @ Venice Film Festival - VIP water logistics, celebrity handling, and red carpet coordination.

• High-End underwear campaign in historic palaces - Exclusive location access, interior permitting, and set design logistics.

To help you plan, here is a breakdown of the standard logistical requirements. These timelines are strictly enforced by the Municipality.

• Public Ground Permits: 20 Working Days (Strict enforcement for calli & campi).

• Cargo Boats (Transport): Booking 1 week prior (Essential for camera/light gear).

• Equipment (EQ): Milan Based (Venice rentals are scarce; we truck from Milan to Tronchetto).

• Crew Base: Hybrid (Local Producers/PAs + Milan Key Crew).

• Image Rights (Venice): Variable Fee (Apply to commercial use of city views).

Venice is an archipelago of 118 islands connected by over 400 bridges. There are no trucks on set. Courage Production organizes the entire transport chain from the mainland to the location.

We manage the heavy truck offload at the mainland terminals (Tronchetto or Piazzale Roma) and coordinate the "last mile" logistics using specific cargo boats authorized to enter narrow canals. For talent, clients, and agency members, we arrange private water taxis (motoscafi) to ensure seamless transfers between hotels, airports, and shooting locations.

Q: How much does a film permit cost in Venice?

A: Base application fees are standard, but Venice applies specific "Image Rights" (Cosap/Canone) for commercial shoots that frame the city. Costs vary significantly based on crew size and distribution. Contact us for a precise estimate based on your storyboard.

Q: Do we need boats for a photo shoot in Venice?

A: Yes. Unless you are shooting exclusively inside a hotel, boats are mandatory. You will need a Cargo Boat for equipment transport (vans stop at Piazzale Roma) and Water Taxis for the agency and talent. Walking with heavy gear over bridges is not feasible for professional productions.

Q: Can we fly drones in Venice?

A: Drone flights over Venice are extremely restricted due to the proximity of Marco Polo Airport and historical protections. Permits are rare and require long lead times and specific ENAC authorizations. We can evaluate feasibility on a case-by-case basis.