Video Producer's Guide to Shooting in Chicago, IL
Chicago, IL is home to a population of 7,307,400 and industries spanning Financial Services, Engineering, Publishing, Food Processing. Known as Chi-Town and The Windy City, the city was founded in 1833. This guide covers everything video producers need to know before shooting in Chicago — from hotels and airports to weather, transportation, and local production guidelines.
Written by Matt Rossetti, Cameraman — Chicago, Illinois — Assignment Desk
Chicago at a Glance
Population
7,307,400
Founded
1833
Nicknames
Chi-Town, The Windy City
Industries
Financial Services, Engineering, Publishing, Food Processing
About Chicago
Known best for its unique community, world’s best architecture and museums, thriving music and dining scene, Chicago is one of those places with a multicultural feel that stays true to its roots. In the 19th century, it started as a shipping industry with a tremendous working class. Today, it’s known for its vibrant music scene and “windy city” persona. The “deep dish” started here, calling home to “Chicago style” pizza. Since the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, Chicago is made up of many neighborhoods and buildings under 115 years old with a perfect mixture of historic vibrancy and modern touch.
Attractions & Things to Do
Chicago is one of the most popular destinations for festivals and events. The Underground Film Festival in March, the St. Patty’s Day Parade with the green-dyed Chicago River, Taste of Chicago and Lollapalooza in summer, and the Chicago Jazz Festival. Main attractions include the Willis Tower (Sears Tower), Cloud Gate (The Bean), and Millennium Park. Higher education includes University of Chicago, University of Illinois at Chicago, DePaul University, Chicago State University, and City Colleges of Chicago.
Sports Teams
Chicago Cubs (MLB), Chicago Bulls (NBA), Chicago Bears (NFL), Chicago Blackhawks (NHL)
Where to Stay
Hotels will not be an issue. Downtown options include the AC Hotel Chicago and Loews Chicago Hotel (architecturally impressive but pricey). More reasonable options include the Sheraton Grand Chicago and SpringHill Suites by Marriott. Near the airport, the Sheraton Chicago O’Hare Airport Hotel is convenient to O’Hare International Airport.
Airport & Drive Times
Primary Airport
O’Hare International Airport
Approx. 30 minutes by car, 40 minutes by bus/train to downtown
Getting Around
The “L” train system and buses are available but can be expensive. Rental cars, parking, and gas tend to be expensive too, so public transportation often makes sense for prompt shoot destinations. Uber and Lyft are widely available.
Locations & Drive Times
From downtown to the airport takes about 30 minutes by car and 40 minutes by bus or train. Most attractions within Chicago’s neighborhoods take about 15-20 minutes by car or train. Traffic can be quite heavy so public transportation is ideal.
Weather
January is the coldest month with an average of 31°F; July is the hottest at 84°F. Jackets, scarves, and hats are necessary during colder months since wind and blizzards can be common. The best time to visit is during spring, summer, and fall.
Production Guidelines
Shoots in Chicago 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 30-mile radius drawn around the city. Verify with your crew their specific policies.
Our Crew in Chicago
Assignment Desk has staff crew members based in the Chicago area, ready to handle your production needs.
Chamber of Commerce
If you have additional questions about Chicago, you can always contact the city's Chamber of Commerce.
Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce, 410 N Michigan Ave #900, Chicago, IL 60611, www.chicagolandchamber.com
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I know before shooting video in Chicago?
Chicago shoots are based on a ten hour day with overtime at time and a half after ten hours. The city offers financial services, engineering, publishing, food processing industries as primary production subjects. January is the coldest month with an average of 31°F; July is the hottest at 84°F. Jackets, scarves, and hats are necessary during colder months since wind and blizzards can be common. The best time to visit is during spring, summer, and fall.
Where should my crew stay in Chicago?
Hotels will not be an issue. Downtown options include the AC Hotel Chicago and Loews Chicago Hotel (architecturally impressive but pricey). More reasonable options include the Sheraton Grand Chicago and SpringHill Suites by Marriott. Near the airport, the Sheraton Chicago O’Hare Airport Hotel is convenient to O’Hare International Airport.
How do I get from the airport to my shoot in Chicago?
The primary airport is O’Hare International Airport. From downtown to the airport takes about 30 minutes by car and 40 minutes by bus or train. Most attractions within Chicago’s neighborhoods take about 15-20 minutes by car or train. Traffic can be quite heavy so public transportation is ideal.
What is the weather like for shooting in Chicago?
January is the coldest month with an average of 31°F; July is the hottest at 84°F. Jackets, scarves, and hats are necessary during colder months since wind and blizzards can be common. The best time to visit is during spring, summer, and fall.
How do I book a video crew in Chicago?
Assignment Desk provides professional video production crews in Chicago, IL. 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 Chicago. Browse Production Stories →
Book a Crew in Chicago
Ready to shoot in Chicago, IL? Call 312-464-8600 or fill out our booking form.
Hire A CrewProduction Resources in Chicago
Assignment Desk maintains a network of video production professionals in Chicago, IL. Here are the resources available for your next shoot.
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