Paris is a wonderfully photogenic city- boasting some of the World’s most instantly recognisable landmarks, stunning architecture and a certain “je ne sais quoi” charm.  So it’s no wonder that thousands of films are shot here every year from big-budget, star-studded monoliths to zero-budget indie films.
So, as an independent filmmaker, how do you get to shoot in Paris without a huge budget at your disposal?

Depending on the type of filming you are doing, and where, you may need a permit to shoot from the City of Paris via the Paris Film Office and/or The Paris Police. The permit itself is issued free of charge but you will probably need to pay a fee for use of the location.  Private land, municipal properties, cemeteries, well known landmarks will require a permit to shoot.  If you are planning to stick to ‘public’ areas and streets though, it’s a different matter.
In fact, if you are shooting on the streets of Paris with a crew of less than 10 people you don’t need a permit to shoot from the City authorities. You may need one from the Police though.  Unofficially, if you’re not causing too much disruption, without a huge cast, crew, equipment and trailing leads blocking walkways you should be fine. Be super organised so you can be in, shoot and out without the gendarmerie or security guards even noticing you.

Certain high-profile spots like The Louvre Courtyard, Champs de Mars, or Jardin de Luxembourg are likely to get you into hot water with the authorities if you don’t have a permit.  Myself and some friends attempted a short shoot around the Louvre last year, only to be moved on within seconds.  That said, the long summer evenings provide extended daylight hours for shooting, without the heavy security presence.  Similarly early mornings are very quiet in Paris, so you should be undisturbed, as well as providing beautiful light and long shadows.

If you are going to go entirely by the book check out the Paris Film Office regulations and guidelines.  Apply for your permit from Paris Film and The Prefecture de Police long before your intended shooting dates. They say 2-3 weeks, but there’s no harm sending off a month or so in advance. Include in your email or letter: a synopsis of the scene to be shot, a copy of your screenplay, estimated shooting dates & times, locations, crew numbers, equipment to be used,  and proof of insurance.  They will then process your application, sending it to the correct municipal department who will calculate a charge for your shoot.  You will be invoiced with the location shooting charges, and once paid you will be issued with your permit.

Mission Cinéma- Paris Film
4 rue François Miron 75004 Paris
Tél. 33 (0) 1 44 54 19 60
Fax 33 (0) 1 44 54 19 57
mail : tournages@paris.fr
www.parisfilm.fr

Préfecture de Police de Paris
Service des Prises de Vues (Filming Department)
9 boulevard du Palais, 75004 Paris
Tel: 33 (0)1 53 71 42 45
Fax: 33 (0)1 53 71 67 37

Also check out www.iledefrance-film.com, the wider Paris region Film Commission for funding, production assistance, talent and location searching facilities.

Comprehensive information on many aspects of shooting in France, and Paris in Film France’s downloadable PDF Guide.

Coming Soon…
Going Underground. New ÉCU Series to look at shooting on the Metro, Tube and Subway systems around the World.

• Français

By Claire Leonard

Once your script is written or even your film made, the party over, and the hangover cleared you need to set about the task of getting your film seen and, hopefully, loved.  Yes, there is Cannes, but there is so much more to the French film festival scene than those 10 days in May.

Get involved in festivals and events that allow you to promote your work.  Competitions and festivals worth a look include www.scenarioaulongcourt.com and their annual Festival International des Scenaristes, held in Bourges.  Scriptwriters competition, workshops, debates and melting pot for indie creatives and filmophiles. Film festival competitions like  www.ecufilmfestival.com (obviously!), www.clermont-filmfest.com,  www.fidmarseille.org .

Visit Film France website for further information and links to film festivals. The directory at www.bellefaye.com provides an inventory of 30000 contacts in the industry and lists festivals throughout France.

Enter your script or film into competitions through www.withoutabox.com.  Sign up for free filmmaker accounts, with details of over 5000 festivals worldwide.  Secure upload and submissions of films, scripts and clips to festivals and competitions (paid service).  Find an audience through the IMDb (Internet Movie Database) and even self-distribute.  For comprehensive information on film festivals, competitions and events worldwide visit www.filmfestivals.com.

So what are you waiting for? Get your film out there.