In this guide
This directory covers four Melbourne studios to consider for a video shoot. Compare the space, backgrounds, access and equipment with what your production needs. A studio can make some shoots easier to organise, but hire costs and setup requirements vary.
If you’re still deciding whether to hire a studio, read our guide to studio or onsite filming first. The notes below are based on the operators’ published information. Confirm availability, inclusions and suitability directly before booking.
Hitmaker Studios
Hitmaker Studios in Port Melbourne offers film, television, podcast and livestream production spaces. Its Studio A is described as a soundproofed stage with both green and matte-white cycloramas and vehicle access.
The operator also lists a smaller acoustically treated Studio B, a recording booth and support spaces for hair and makeup, clients and talent. Ask which rooms, lighting and technical support are included in the proposed booking. For recorded dialogue, confirm that the specific space and its ventilation are suitable for your sound requirements.
Melbourne Studios
Melbourne Studios lists a 12m by 12m cyclorama, an 8m ceiling, drive-in access and three-phase power. These features are worth considering when your production involves large products, vehicles or substantial set builds.
Its published facilities include dressing rooms, client areas, kitchen facilities, portable coloured walls and onsite parking. Lighting equipment can be hired separately. Check the current equipment list, access dimensions and any painting or cleaning requirements for the cyclorama.
Lithium Studios
Lithium Studios in Thornbury lists an 8m by 8m corner cyclorama, vehicle access, blackout blinds, kitchen and client areas.
Its lighting grid is available separately from standard studio hire. The operator lists four Aputure Nova P300C RGB LED panels with a soft-light setup. Confirm whether this suits the planned lighting and what other equipment is included. Flexible booking times are advertised, subject to availability.
Robotface
Robotface in Port Melbourne lists two studio spaces. Studio A has a 10m by 10m infinity cyclorama, a motorised car turntable and a loading bay. Studio B is a smaller studio space. Kitchen and meeting-room facilities are also listed.
Robotface offers motion-control and high-speed camera services as well as studio hire. For a specialist product shoot, discuss the shot, camera and lens requirements, operators, safety clearances and equipment package. Don’t assume robotics or high-speed cameras are included in the room hire.
What to check before booking
- Sound: is the room suitable for recorded speech? Ask about external noise, neighbouring bookings and air conditioning. A photography studio isn’t necessarily sound-isolated.
- Space and access: allow room for the subject, camera distance, lighting and crew. Check loading access and accessibility for everyone attending.
- Inclusions: confirm lighting, power, backgrounds, furniture, equipment and any required studio staff.
- Total cost: include setup and pack-down time, overtime, equipment, repainting or cleaning, and GST where applicable.
Keep the script and shot list in mind when comparing venues. A larger room or a longer equipment list won’t necessarily make it the right choice for your shoot.
Contact Dream Engine to discuss the location and production requirements for your next video.
Use a video production brief to compare the venues against the same requirements. Our corporate video production service covers planning the filming around the chosen location.
Plan the details
Studio hire: frequently asked questions
Answers to common planning questions.
How should we compare studios for a video shoot?
Compare the planned subject, camera distance, backgrounds, lighting, sound and access requirements. Allow room for the crew and equipment, and ask each operator to confirm the inclusions for your proposed booking.
Is a photography studio suitable for recorded dialogue?
A photography studio is not necessarily sound-isolated. Ask about external noise, neighbouring bookings, ventilation and air conditioning. Confirm that the specific room suits your recorded speech requirements.
What can add to the studio hire cost?
Check setup and pack-down time, overtime, lighting and equipment hire, required studio staff, repainting, cleaning and GST where applicable. Specialist camera systems and operators may need a separate quote.
Should we confirm the facilities before booking?
Yes. Confirm current availability, inclusions, access dimensions, accessibility and the equipment package directly with the operator. Published facilities are a starting point for discussing your particular production.
Ryan Spanger is the founder and managing director of Dream Engine, a Melbourne video production company established in 2002. Over the past two decades, he’s produced hundreds of videos for businesses, government departments, universities and healthcare organisations across Australia. Ryan specialises in helping organisations explain complex ideas through clear, engaging video content, with particular experience in corporate communications, training and education.
