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. The Kárahnjúkavirkjun area, known for its massive hydroelectric dam and raw, untouched landscapes, was the ideal setting to evoke the spirit of exploration and endurance at the heart of the Land Rover brand. Polarama played a crucial role in this production, managing everything from crew coordination to securing the necessary permits, ensuring the shoot went smoothly and captured Iceland’s wild beauty while aligning with Land Rover’s vision.
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. Many have worked on Hollywood blockbusters as well as high-budget ad campaigns, ensuring top-quality results on any project.
- Equipment: Iceland’s film infrastructure is well-developed, making it easy to rent professional-grade equipment. Whether you need aerial drones for sweeping overhead shots or advanced lighting rigs for studio-quality scenes, Iceland has the resources to support a world-class production.
Permits and Regulations for Commercial Shoots
One of the benefits of filming in Iceland is the straightforward process for obtaining permits. For most commercial shoots, local municipalities can issue permits with relatively short lead times. However, special permits are required for protected areas, such as national parks, to ensure environmental preservation.
- 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, it’s essential to allocate extra time for securing special permissions due to environmental regulations.
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, as batteries can drain quickly in the cold.
- Flexibility: Weather in Iceland can change rapidly, so it’s wise to build flexibility into your schedule to allow for potential delays or location adjustments.
Shooting a commercial in Iceland offers an unmatched combination of breathtaking visuals, accessible locations, and financial incentives. With Polarama’s expert production services, supported by experienced local crews and top-tier equipment providers, your next commercial shoot can be as stunning and impactful as the Icelandic landscape itself.
Ready to bring your brand’s vision to life in Iceland? Contact us at Polarama to start planning an unforgettable commercial shoot in the land of fire and ice.
