How to Shoot Successful Commercials in Iceland: A Producer's Handbook
Iceland has become a leading destination for not only film and TV productions but also for commercial shoots. With its extraordinary range of landscapes—from glacial peaks to lava fields—Iceland offers a dramatic and unique backdrop that few locations can rival. Here's everything you need to know about shooting your next commercial in Iceland, including a closer look at a recent Land Rover shoot managed by Polarama.
Why Iceland is Perfect for Commercials
With major brands like Land Rover, Coca-Cola, and Google choosing Iceland as the backdrop for their commercials, it's clear that the country has become a prime choice for high-impact advertising productions. Iceland's diverse landscapes make it possible to capture a variety of looks within a short distance, which is both efficient and visually striking for commercial shoots.
Diverse Locations with Case Study: Land Rover at Kárahnjúkavirkjun
Iceland offers locations for nearly every type of commercial concept. Need a volcanic landscape for a rugged adventure vehicle ad? Iceland's vast volcanic terrain, including areas like Krafla and the Laki craters, deliver the perfect look. Want a surreal, otherworldly coastline? The black sands of Vik offer a stunning background for luxury or high-end products.
A recent example of Iceland's appeal and versatility is the Land Rover commercial shoot at Kárahnjúkavirkjun, managed by Polarama. Land Rover selected this distinct location to highlight the brand's adventurous, rugged image. Polarama played a crucial role in this production, managing everything from crew coordination to securing the necessary permits.
Accessibility
Despite Iceland's dramatic landscapes, many filming locations are accessible by road, allowing production teams to move efficiently between scenes and capture a wide range of environments in a single day. This accessibility helps productions remain agile, making Iceland an attractive choice for commercials on tight schedules.
Production Services for Commercials
Shooting a commercial in a foreign country requires a skilled local production team to ensure success. Companies like Polarama offer comprehensive production services for foreign brands, from equipment rental to securing permits and managing crew needs.
- Crew: Iceland's local crews are highly experienced with both large-scale productions and fast-paced commercial shoots.
- Equipment: Iceland's film infrastructure is well-developed, making it easy to rent professional-grade equipment including aerial drones and advanced lighting rigs.
Permits and Regulations for Commercial Shoots
- Municipal Permits: Local authorities are accustomed to commercial shoots and can often expedite the permit process for smaller productions.
- National Park Permits: If your shoot requires filming in places like Þingvellir National Park, allocate extra time for securing special permissions.
Shooting in Extreme Weather: A Quick Guide
One unique challenge when filming in Iceland is managing the often unpredictable weather. From high winds to sudden snowstorms, production teams may encounter natural obstacles. However, with the right planning and gear, you can still deliver a top-quality production.
- Cold-Weather Gear: Make sure your crew is equipped with insulated clothing, and bring backup batteries for cameras.
- Flexibility: Weather in Iceland can change rapidly, so build flexibility into your schedule.
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