Why San Diego Is an Underrated Hub for Video Production
One of my biggest motivations as a creative professional is to strengthen the local production economy wherever I work. Video production isn’t just about cameras and edits — it’s about the network of people, locations, and businesses that make great work possible.
Back when I ran my production company in Austin, over 90% of our clients were based out of state. By consistently bringing projects into Austin, we helped generate hundreds of thousands of dollars for the local economy. That money went into hiring crew, renting gear, securing locations, and supporting the city’s creative workforce. Even if it flew under the radar, that impact is something I’m deeply proud of.
Now that I’m based in San Diego, I see the same opportunity — maybe an even bigger one.
Why San Diego?
San Diego is an underrated powerhouse for video production. Here’s why more brands should be paying attention:
Year-Round Sunshine: With one of the most stable climates in the country, San Diego makes it easy to plan shoots without worrying about weather delays.
Diverse Locations: Beaches, deserts, forests, mountains, and urban backdrops are all within driving distance — a dream for brands that want variety without multiple travel days.
Talented Local Crew: The San Diego production community is filled with skilled, collaborative professionals who know how to deliver at a high level.
Proximity to LA, Without the Hassle: Need extra resources or specialty crew? Los Angeles is just a short drive away — but you can skip FilmLA’s permit headaches and the grind of the 101 freeway.
My Mission as a San Diego Video Producer
As a San Diego Video Producer, my mission is to bring outside dollars into this city’s creative economy. I want brands from across the U.S. and beyond to discover what San Diego has to offer. That means:
Tapping into the local talent pool
Supporting gear houses and rental facilities
Showcasing San Diego locations to a wider audience
When brands choose to shoot here, they’re not only getting world-class production value — they’re also investing in a thriving creative community.
The Bottom Line
San Diego might not be the first city that comes to mind when people think of video production, but it should be. Between the unbeatable weather, location variety, and a strong professional network, this city is ready for more national and international campaigns.
If your brand is looking for a fresh backdrop, a smooth production process, and some of the best creative talent in the country, consider shooting in America’s Finest City.