The Benefits of Shooting in a Versatile Warehouse Studio
In the world of filmmaking and photography, finding the perfect location is key to bringing a creative vision to life.
While traditional sets and outdoor locations have their appeal, versatile warehouse settings offer a unique and dynamic backdrop for a wide range of creative productions.
Located in the Ironbound neighborhood of Newark, New Jersey, ODR Studios offers 10,000 square feet of stunning industrial space to work with.
A former transformer factory, the two-story building is a multipurpose gem sitting just a few miles west of Manhattan.
Whether you're shooting a movie, TV show, documentary, music video, or commercial, here are some compelling reasons for why a warehouse setting like ODR Studios is the perfect choice for your next project.
1. A Curated Canvas for Creativity
One of the biggest advantages of creating in a warehouse setting is the opportunity it provides for creative expression.
There's something undeniably cool and attractive about shooting in a warehouse. The raw, industrial aesthetic adds depth and authenticity to productions, giving them a gritty, urban feel that's hard to replicate.
Open floor plans, high ceilings, and minimalistic designs mean warehouses also offer filmmakers the freedom to transform the space to suit their vision.
Whether you're creating a futuristic sci-fi world, a modern apartment, or a dreamy artistic environment, a warehouse can be easily customized to fit any creative concept.
ODR Studio’s unique architectural design is no exception, opening up a world of possibilities.
Built in the 1920s with Belfast roof trusses, our warehouse is unique in that there are no supporting columns to obstruct views or camera shots, resulting in a jaw-dropping open floor plan. Up above, wooden lattice work lends a natural, historic feel to the building.
Clean concrete walls provide character and texture without being overly busy - the perfect canvas to get creative with and in front of.
And our clients agree.
ODR has opened its doors to everyone from Dua Lipa and J. Balvin, to Vogue, BMW and New Era, allowing their teams to take advantage of a space that is endlessly customizable.
2. Versatility in Design and Décor
Warehouse settings come in all shapes and sizes, from modern industrial spaces to rustic and historic buildings.
This versatility allows filmmakers to choose a location that best complements the aesthetic of their project. Whether you're looking for exposed brick walls, concrete floors, metal beams, or large windows, you can find a building that fits your specific design needs.
Additionally, warehouses can be easily dressed with props, set pieces, and décor to create the desired atmosphere for your production.
ODR Studios is as versatile as you can get. From e-commerce photoshoots to Hollywood movie productions, brand launches to live music, it’s a space that delivers every time.
Clients can make use of an eclectic array of stylish furniture, vintage cars, bookshelves, historic factory items, and a jungle of plants for props.
Take a look at the epic productions that we have helped clients bring to life here.
3. Control Over Lighting and Sound
One of the biggest challenges of filming on location is dealing with unpredictable lighting and sound conditions.
In a warehouse setting, filmmakers have greater control over these elements, allowing you to create the perfect visual and auditory environment for your production.
With typically large, open spaces and minimal ambient noise, a warehouse provides the ideal setting for controlling lighting and audio, ensuring that every shot looks and sounds exactly as intended.
At ODR Studios, we know how important these elements are for the success of your work. And we’re no stranger to multi-day productions where continuity is key.
On our second floor, huge factory windows offer photographers and filmmakers soft, consistent light throughout the day, perfect for interview and documentary style shoots like those shot by CBS Sports.
Downstairs, our workshop floor acts as a mini soundstage, allowing for even further control.
Plus, we have an array of state-of-the-art lighting equipment, colored backdrops, green screens, and additional electrical power when required.
Searching for outdoor shots? Our rooftop is perfect for golden hour shoots and even delivers views of the Manhattan skyline.
Whilst we’re close enough to feel the buzz of New York City and our surrounding Ironbound neighborhood, we’re far enough away to be shielded from any obtrusive city noise. Yet another advantage of creating magic at ODR Studios.
4. Cost-Effective Productions
Shooting in a warehouse setting can be a cost-effective alternative to building elaborate sets or filming on location.
Warehouses are often more affordable to rent than traditional soundstages or studio spaces, making them an attractive option for productions with limited budgets.
As mentioned previously, warehouses require minimal set dressing and can be easily customized to fit the needs of the production, further reducing costs.
The beauty of ODR Studios? We offer multiple ready made sets under the roof of one location.
We strive to provide much more than an empty industrial space, thus ODR is split into several distinct areas, which your production team will have full access to.
ODR’s main studio space includes a working kitchen filled with beautiful plants and eye-catching windows, a lounge area complete with vintage furniture (perfect for interviews and talking head documentaries), a stripped back, industrial bathroom, plus plenty of vacant areas ready for you to customize completely.T
Downstairs, a gritty boiler room makes for a perfect horror movie interior. Upstairs our rooftop creates further options still.
From intimate fashion shoots that utilize specific areas of the building, to productions that take over every floor and every square foot, ODR is limited only by your imagination.
5. Flexibility and Accessibility
Warehouses also offer filmmakers and photographers the flexibility to shoot at any time of day or night, without having to worry about noise restrictions or scheduling conflicts.
Additionally, warehouses are often located in industrial areas with easy access to transportation and amenities, making them convenient locations for cast and crew.
With 24/7 access to ODR Studios, we allow you to work on your own timeline, ensuring that you have the time you need to capture every shot perfectly.
New Jersey is a hub for film industry workers and tradespeople (many of whom we have existing connections with), making ODR Studios a convenient location for your team to travel to and recruit from.
We’ll work with local city officials to ensure that your parking and accessibility needs are taken care of, however long your shoot, and are happy to advise you on any permits required in the area.
Furthermore, there’s nowhere better than the Ironbound to source your crew’s catering! We’ll hook you up with recommendations on the very best Portuguese and South American cuisine that Newark has to offer.
Need to travel to Manhattan quickly? You can drive or catch public transport and be in Midtown within an hour.
Newark and ODR Studios offer all the benefits of a big city shoot, without the hassle.
Conclusion - Why Book ODR Studios For Your Next Production?
Shooting in an industrial warehouse setting offers filmmakers and photographers a wide range of benefits, including creative freedom, versatility in design and décor, control over lighting and sound, cost-effective production choices, flexibility, and accessibility.
Our storied list of past clients are testament to just how versatile, unique and beautiful the ODR warehouse is.
So why wait? Unlock your creativity and consider shooting at ODR Studios for your next production.
We’d love to work with you and are on hand to answer any questions you have about making media magic in Newark.
Send us a message and request a booking quote here.