Making the Move – Cape Town In My Heart

Bsmart opens its doors in Cape Town

Ten years ago I travelled to Cape Town to study the fantastic light and the beautiful locations that I had heard so much about. I was completely overwhelmed. Three years later I returned for a photo shoot for the book Tutti Frutti that I was planning with my friend Klas Lindstrand. Needless to say, I fell totally in love with South Africa once again. This new love together with a passion for visual imagery was the beginning of an idea for a new Bsmart venture. Commuting backwards and forwards to South Africa over the last few years has given me both time and experience to plan and prepare. Finally, in the autumn of 2011 we opened a production studio at Camps Bay in the centre of Cape Town. All the services we offer in Stockholm are now available here on location. Cape Town is even in the same time zone as Stockholm! As well as film and photography, and 3D/CGI and retouch, we can help you find locations and local models and even take care of your whole production. Come and join us in the South African sun!

Tomas Lestrup, CEO & Founder

 

Why shoot in Cape Town?

So, what are the obvious benefits of a film or photo shoot in Cape Town? Well, not only do Bsmart offer film and photo shoots with 3D/CGI and retouch services on location but there are also so many benefits that Cape Town itself has to offer. Here are just a few of them:

• Affordability
Cape Town is one of the most affordable production destinations in the world and with the recent dramatic weakening of the South African Rand it makes it even more attractive for foreign visitors.

• Fabulous weather – Almost all year round.
Our summers (November to April) experience a Mediterranean climate. The hot and dry weather means that we hardly ever lose a days shooting due to poor weather. Winter is our rainy season but we still experience some of the best weather during this period. For clients happy to factor in a ‘cloudy day’ into their schedule, winter is known as our ’secret season’ as it is generally cheaper and quieter.

• Fantastic light conditions
Cape Town is the perfect environment for filmmakers and photographers. They love shooting here because of the clarity of the extraordinary Cape Town light.

• Unique and diverse locations
Some locations are uniquely African whereas others are representative of landscapes from all over the world. All are within easy striking distance of the city centre and most are within a one hour drive.

• Beautiful models and interesting characters
Models are usually available for less than what one would typically pay in Europe. Video and digital casting solutions are available to ensure clients feel confident with their choice of talent before arriving in South Africa.


• Excellent accommodation options
We understand the unique requirements of production teams and have access to some of the finest villas, apartments and hotels in Cape Town.

• Easy Access
Just a 12 hour flight from Europe. And without the jet lag.

• World class infrastructure for the production industry
Thanks to the increase in international films being shot in Cape Town, there has been huge investment and development into the resources and skills available locally. Cape Town has a number of excellent film and photographic studios as well as post-production facilities. We have internationally experienced set designers, props masters, SFX specialists and a host of equipment rental houses who provide the latest in brand new lighting, grip, camera and digital equipment.

• The people of South Africa!
The people we work with are all carefully chosen not only for their high level of experience and professionalism but also because they put their heart and soul into every production, adding a unique touch to the client experience.

• Cape Town is a Stepping Stone into Africa
For clients seeking greater variety and unique and remote locations, Cape Town offers easy access to the rest of Africa. Destinations include the vast, ancient Namibia Desert, the wildness of Southern Africa (Safari) and the amazing historical and tropical islands of Zanzibar.

Partnerships

Our production partner in Cape Town is Steel Productions, renowned for their experience and high end quality. When it comes to accommodation and pleasure, our partner Latitude Ventures will ensure that your stay in Cape Town is as comfortable and enjoyable as you could imagine.

Please contact tomas@bsmart.se for more details regarding our new services in Cape Town.