Video Producer's Guide to Shooting in Atlanta, GA

Atlanta, GA is home to a population of 5,802,100 and industries spanning Financial Services, Technology, Telecommunications. Known as The A, A-Town and ATL, the city was founded in 1847. This guide covers everything video producers need to know before shooting in Atlanta — from hotels and airports to weather, transportation, and local production guidelines.

Written by Brent Ebell, Director of Photography — Atlanta, Georgia — Assignment Desk

Atlanta at a Glance

Population

5,802,100

Founded

1847

Nicknames

The A, A-Town, ATL

Industries

Financial Services, Technology, Telecommunications

About Atlanta

Known for the railroad originally, Atlanta has become one of the country’s most financial and commercial cities. Its diverse and progressive views push Atlanta to one of the most civilized cities in the country. With it being the capital of Georgia, it serves great purposes for businesses, entertainment, shopping, restaurants, and much more. Atlanta was actually one of the touchpoints during the Civil Rights Movement along with the hometown of Martin Luther King Jr. It has the largest aquarium in the southern hemisphere as well as the popular College Hall of Fame. Atlanta is one of few cities in the US that offers almost anything for anyone.

Attractions & Things to Do

The Atlanta Beltline is one of the most popular things to do while in Atlanta — a former railway corridor that now serves as a multi-purpose trail with 2,000-acre parks and plenty of historic railcars to explore. The Atlanta History Center and the Center for Human Rights both serve as entertainment and educational spots. The College Hall of Fame, World of Coca-Cola, and the CNN Center are centers to explore for all ages. Atlanta is a major spot for entertainment, festivals, and concerts including the Atlanta Jazz Festival, SweetWater 420 Festival, and Music Midtown. Higher education options include Georgia Tech University, Georgia State, Emory University, and Atlanta Technical College.

Sports Teams

Atlanta Falcons (NFL), Atlanta Hawks (NBA), Atlanta Braves (MLB), Atlanta United FC (MLS)

Where to Stay

Hotels located downtown will be more expensive but benefit you by their location and accessibility. Downtown options include the West Atlanta Midtown Hotel and the Sheraton. Near the airport, consider the Hilton Atlanta Airport Hotel and the Loews Atlanta Hotel.

Airport & Drive Times

Primary Airport

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport

Approx. 15 minutes to downtown

Getting Around

Driving or ride-sharing services like Uber are the best options for getting around Atlanta. The city has MARTA public transit (bus and rail), but a car is recommended for production crews.

Locations & Drive Times

Because of Atlanta’s high volume of business and entertainment, traffic can be bad. Driving times for most locations will be about 15 minutes. The drive to Hartsfield-Jackson from downtown is also 15 minutes. Driving or getting an Uber are the best options for transportation around Atlanta.

Weather

Atlanta’s climate is hot and humid with summer temperatures reaching 90 degrees. Winters range from high 50s to low 30s. Snow is not common and precipitation is average.

View 10-day forecast for Atlanta →

Production Guidelines

Shoots in Atlanta are based on a ten hour day and the crew is on the clock at the specified crew call. Overtime at a rate of time and a half begins after ten hours. A distant location is any location outside a circle with a 30-mile radius drawn around the city. Verify with your crew their specific policies.

Our Crew in Atlanta

Assignment Desk has staff crew members based in the Atlanta area, ready to handle your production needs.

Nate Silverman

Atlanta, GA

Chamber of Commerce

If you have additional questions about Atlanta, you can always contact the city's Chamber of Commerce.

Metro Atlanta Chamber, 191 Peachtree Tower, 191 Peachtree St. NE #3400, Atlanta, GA 30303. www.metroatlantachamber.com

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I know before shooting video in Atlanta?

Atlanta shoots are based on a ten hour day with overtime at time and a half after ten hours. The city offers financial services, technology, telecommunications industries as primary production subjects. Atlanta’s climate is hot and humid with summer temperatures reaching 90 degrees. Winters range from high 50s to low 30s. Snow is not common and precipitation is average.

Where should my crew stay in Atlanta?

How do I get from the airport to my shoot in Atlanta?

The primary airport is Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. Because of Atlanta’s high volume of business and entertainment, traffic can be bad. Driving times for most locations will be about 15 minutes. The drive to Hartsfield-Jackson from downtown is also 15 minutes. Driving or getting an Uber are the best options for transportation around Atlanta.

What is the weather like for shooting in Atlanta?

Atlanta’s climate is hot and humid with summer temperatures reaching 90 degrees. Winters range from high 50s to low 30s. Snow is not common and precipitation is average.

How do I book a video crew in Atlanta?

Assignment Desk provides professional video production crews in Atlanta, GA. Call 312-464-8600 or visit our booking form at assignmentdesk.com/hire-a-crew. Our staff Directors of Photography come equipped with full camera, lighting, and audio packages.

Read about recent productions shot in Atlanta. Browse Production Stories →