Filming in São Paulo
What you need to know
DISCOVER SÃO PAULO: THE MOST PRODUCTION-FRIENDLY LOCATION IN BRAZIL
Brazil Production Services takes pride in assisting clients from across the globe in their film, TV, and web projects in Brazil. Whether shooting in the dense Amazon jungle or along sun-drenched beaches, we have the expertise to make productions happen in any environment.
While São Paulo might seem less daunting than remote locations, this sprawling and intense metropolis of 12 million people presents its own particular challenges for filmmakers. From its notorious traffic jams, labyrinthine streets and intricate permitting, the city demands local expertise and know-how. And Brazil Production Services has the knowledge of this cosmopolitan giant to ensure a smooth production.
As the financial heart of Brazil and South America's leading economic hub, São Paulo has also emerged as the country's media capital. This status brings with it the most skilled crews, top-tier rental houses, and the most comprehensive resources and services for film and TV production in Brazil.
With years of experience working locally in São Paulo, Brazil Production Services is deeply connected to the city and can manage productions there with ease.
Is São Paulo your next filming destination? Contact us today to find out how we can support your production needs in this dynamic city!
BRAZIL PRODUCTION SERVICES AT WORK IN SÃO PAULO
Why São Paulo for filming?
São Paulo is a modern, global city with a thriving audiovisual industry. The city offers a wealth of urban locations and a multitude of people of different backgrounds making it a prime choice for productions that require diverse settings and casting options. São Paulo has become a go-to destination for filmmakers from high-end commercials to feature films due to its wide variety of locations and diverse talent pool.
The local, world class locations include iconic landmarks such as the São Paulo Art Museum, Paulista Avenue, and the Octávio Frias de Oliveira Bridge, known as "Ponte Estaiada." Whether your project requires bustling city streets, green parks, or nearby beaches (just two hours away by car), São Paulo will deliver.
The city hosts major cultural and sporting events such as São Paulo Fashion Week, the São Paulo Biennial, and the Formula One Grand Prix and boasts several cultural festivals, concerts and sport competitions.
Brazil Production Services has extensive experience shooting in all of the above locations and events and we can assist you in obtaining all the necessary permits for your production to access them if so required.
São Paulo Art Museum (MASP)
"Ponte Estaiada."
Paulista Avenue
São Paulo’s film subsidies and cash rebates
The city of São Paulo audiovisual agency, SPCINE, offers Brazil’s a cash rebate incentive to stimulate film and TV production in the city and encourage the local economy and job market.
This program is available for national and international productions planning to shoot in the city. These incentives are available for the following categories:
International Productions Filmed in São Paulo:
A rebate of 20% to 30% of local expenses for feature films and series.
Brazilian Productions with International Potential:
A rebate of 20% to 30% for national productions with strong international appeal.
Commercial and Advertising Campaigns:
Eligible for the 20% to 30% rebate with a minimum local spend of R$ 2 million Brazilian Reais.
Scripts Featuring São Paulo:
Funding is available for feature films that incorporate the city into their narrative, even if they are not shot there.
If you're considering São Paulo for your production, Brazil Production Service can guide you through and become your petitioner for the rebate application process.
São Paulo’s weather and impact on filming
São Paulo’s weather tends not to be as hot as that of some other major cities in Brazil, but its urban heat islands — created by dense concrete and high-rise buildings — can lead to temperature fluctuations.
Summers (December to March)
Expect warm, muggy, and often rainy weather. Hailstorms are common in the summer, with temperatures rapidly dropping in as little as an hour.
Winters (May to August)
Expect less muggy and drier weather. A more ideal period for filming.
Wet Season (October to April)
Expect lots of rain during this period with January typically being the rainiest month.
Proper planning is crucial to avoid weather-related disruptions during your shoot. Brazil Production Services can provide detailed weather reports and recommendations to keep your production on track.
São Paulo’s audiovisual resources
As a world-class metropolis, São Paulo offers unparalleled film and video production resources. The city is home to specialized lighting, grip, camera equipment, satellite trucks, drones, and helicopters. While some of the latest camera models may not yet be available in Brazil, São Paulo's vendors are among the first to get cutting-edge from international suppliers and make it available for rental locally.
Now, should your project require hard-to-find gear that is not available in São Paulo or anywhere else in the country, Brazil Production Services can assist with the temporary importation of specialized equipment through our relationships with professional freight-forwarders.
If you need help sourcing or importing equipment, contact us today so that we can get the tools you need for your shoot in São Paulo.
Safety considerations
While São Paulo is relatively safer than Rio de Janeiro, it is still crucial to exercise caution.
Avoid carrying valuable items conspicuously, especially in high-risk neighborhoods, and remain aware of your surroundings.
Brazil Production Services recommends always having at least two reliable security guards (armed or unarmed) on exterior sets, and more if the production’s footprint is large or if it involves high-end talent.
São Paulo’s traffic and logistics
With over 8 million cars on the road, São Paulo’s traffic can be chaotic. It’s essential to account for potential delays when planning your shooting schedule and to avoid company moves during certain hours of the day. Brazil Production Services will work with your team to optimize transportation routes and schedules, minimizing time lost in traffic.
São Paulo also boasts three major airports — Guarulhos (GRU), Congonhas (CGH), and Viracopos (VCP) — offering excellent domestic and international connectivity to other locations.
Are you planning to
shoot in São Paulo?
Brazil Production Services has the expertise to ensure your production runs smoothly in Brazil’s biggest metropolis. Send us a message so we can help you bring your project to life in this vibrant city.