What’s the Difference Between a Small and Large Film Studio?

What is the difference between renting a small and a large film studio?

The biggest difference between small and large film studios comes down to how much flexibility and technical capacity you get on shoot day. A small studio works well for straightforward projects like interviews, talking heads or e commerce filming. A larger studio gives you the space and technical support to run bigger setups with lighting grids, set builds, multi camera rigs or live monitoring. Matching the space to the job helps avoid delays, awkward setups or last minute compromises.

How does studio size affect the production setup?

Small studios are compact by nature. You might get basic lighting points, a clean background and access to WiFi. These are often used for social content, single subject interviews or short sessions with minimal gear. They offer enough for shoots that do not require complex coordination.

Larger studios are designed with production crews in mind. They usually feature high ceilings with rigging options, large uninterrupted floorspace, three phase power distribution and zones for staging equipment. You can split departments, add scissor lift access, isolate sound, and bring in art direction or set construction without disrupting the flow.

What do you need to consider for technical compatibility?

Start with what your project needs to run smoothly. Do you need ceiling rigging for overhead lighting or camera tracks? Is your power draw high enough to require three phase sockets? Are you planning to build sets that stay standing for more than one day?

If yes to any of the above, a small studio may not support your requirements. Larger stages are designed for higher loads, better ventilation, and the cable runs needed for multi point setups and playback systems.

For simpler needs, such as shooting against a green screen or using softboxes and static cameras, a small space is often enough. You save on cost and setup time.

Can a small studio meet professional standards?

Yes, but within limits. A well maintained small studio with blackout, soundproofing, white wall or infinity cove, and basic grip gear can meet the needs of fast content creation. They often come with easier access and lower hire costs, which helps keep budgets in check.

However, once you have multiple departments, client attendance or overlapping shoots, you start to notice the lack of space. A tight room slows everything down. There is no buffer zone for styling, no space for private playback and limited air flow with lighting on.

Why does a large studio improve production flow?

It is not just about room to move. Larger studios let your crew spread out, set departments up properly and avoid interference between tasks. Sound team can monitor without headphone bleed, lighting can work safely on elevated grids, and camera can run rehearsals while art adjusts props nearby.

You also get access to green rooms, changing areas, catering setups and rest zones. That means less downtime and less disruption.

How does studio size affect cost and value?

Small studios tend to charge by the hour or half day, making them ideal for last minute bookings or fast turnaround projects. If you are bringing your own kit and crew is light, the lower cost helps stretch the budget.

Larger studios are priced per day but usually include services that remove extra hire costs. Scissor lifts, track, pre lit coves, standing flats, power boards, and WiFi for live streaming or remote review may all be included or easy to bolt on. That gives better value if you need to run a full scale production.

Which option suits your project best?

If you are working with limited gear, a light crew and a narrow brief, a smaller studio keeps things simple. If you are shooting anything with multiple departments, longer timelines, bigger lighting builds or the need for client supervision, a large studio is a safer bet.

Studios like Mammoth Film Studios are set up to give production teams the control, clarity and technical support needed to handle high volume shoots. Their booking process is also fast, making them easy to lock in without back and forth.

Choosing the right production studio size keeps the shoot moving, avoids technical blocks and creates a better working day for everyone involved.