Gambia
Locations. Gambia is a very small and narrow country whose borders follow the Gambia River. Golden beaches, bustling African markets, Katchikally Crocodile Pool, national wildlife parks, colonial architecture.
Permits. Most locations are possible given time, money and the right approach.
When to shoot? Gambia has a subtropical climate. From mid November to early June, coastal areas are usually dry, while the rainy season lasts from late June to October. Inland the cool season is shorter and daytime temperatures are very high between March and June. Sunny periods occur on most days even during the rainy season.
For monthly weather statistics please see: http://www.gaisma.com/en/dir/gm-country.html
Please contact us for more specific weather and sun path information.
Costs. Locations, local talent and support crew are inexpensive but since little to no filming infrastructure exists all key crew and equipment must be brought in from abroad.
Talent is non-union and buyouts are negotiable.
Gambia offers mainly African looking talent. The Mandinka are the largest ethnic group, followed by the Fula, the Wolof, the Jola, Serahuli and the Aku. All other talent needs to be brought in from abroad.
Gambia has no local pool of directors, directors of photography and stills photographers.
Please contact us for recommended directors, DoP's and photographers for your project.
Crews are non-union. Key crew should be brought in from abroad.
Fringes and Premiums. No hidden extras. No fixed premiums apply. We package deals for local crew / talent.
Equipment. You will need to bring in all equipment from abroad.
Art department and set construction is very basic.
Studios and backlots. None exist at present.
Tax Incentives. At present there are no tax incentives for foreign
commercials or films shooting in Gambia.
Film Stock. Must bring from abroad.
Post Production. No labs exist locally. Post abroad.
Visas and Work Permits. Entry is subject to regulations from country of origin. Contact your local Gambia embassy or representative for more information.
Transportation Infrastructure is quite basic. Major roads are sealed. Most other roads are unsealed and damaged. Several international airlines service flights to Gambia.
Accommodation. See here for options in Gambia:
Sandele Bay Eco-Retreat - http://www.sandele.com/
Sheraton Gambia Hotel - http://www.starwoodhotels.com/sheraton
Coconut Residence - http://www.coconutresidence.com/
Please contact us for corporate rates.
For longer stays we can also organize serviced apartments.
Communication. Web posted casting and scouting.
Safety. Gambia is relatively safe for foreigners. Exercise caution. The Casamance region of southern Senegal is at present not safe for foreigners. If you must shoot in Gambia then appropriate personal security measures are recommended.
If you are looking for a film or photographic production service company, line producer or fixer in Gambia, please contact us.
We are able to provide you with answers, references and bids quickly.
