Hive Studio getting ready to roll for photo and film pros
CREATIVE professionals in the New Forest are set for a boost when a new cutting-edge photography and film studio opens soon in New Milton.
The modern facility is launching as Hive Studio later this month at IncuHive New Milton, the business incubation hub at the A&T’s head office off Old Milton Road.
The transformation of the space, which used to serve the A&T’s old printing press next door, is nearly complete and will feature separate white and black screens, plus green-screen capability and a range of lighting kit.
Photographers will appreciate the dual infinity cove five metres wide and nine metres deep, under a five-metre-high ceiling to give space and rigging room for spectacular shoots.
There is also a separate changing room and kitchen with free hot drinks. Booking will be available round-the-clock online, with smart card access for users.
A&T managing director Eddie Curry said: “We know there is a growing demand for photography and film studios, with similar facilities in southern Hampshire booked up by users coming from as far afield as London.
“We have invested to create something that matches the requirements of modern photographers and filmmakers. I think it will meet an unmet need locally where the annual New Forest Film Festival proves there is a hunger for this kind of creative resource.”
One of the first events to be held at the studio will be a networking evening on 19th September hosted by New Forest District Council’s Film: New Forest team, which promotes the area and its services for filmmakers.
The free event, in conjunction with national coordinator Creative England, will give local crews the opportunity to meet industry contacts and view the Hive Studio.
Attendees will hear from Steve Northam, partner of IncuHive New Milton and director of SN Technologies Group, and Matt Callaghan, NFDC’s economic development manager, on the creative and economic opportunities Hive Studio will bring to the New Forest.
Natasha Davies, Film: New Forest project manager, said: “The addition of a green screen to IncuHive is another positive step in attracting productions to the area.
“Film: New Forest receives lots of requests from filmmakers so we know there is a large number of people who would benefit from a creative space like this.
“And anything the project can do to foster a thriving film industry in the area is part of why we started Film: New Forest.”
The networking event is at IncuHive New Milton on Thursday 19th September at 5pm-7pm. To book a place go to www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/filmnew-forest-crew-networking-evening-tickets-69880942781.
