Hire a Camera Crew in Chicago

None of the Chicago listings on this page publish a day rate, so ask for written quotes. Price depends on crew size, gear, editing, live streaming and travel, so send the same brief to two or three crews and compare line by line. If you film on city streets or sidewalks, also budget for the city permit, which is $250 per day per location. Our guide to what a camera operator costs explains how most quotes are built.

You need a City of Chicago permit to film on streets, sidewalks, alleys and other public property, or to park production vehicles, block foot or car traffic, or set up stationary gear on the public way. News crews, documentaries, b-roll and other small shoots that do not get in the way of traffic often do not need one. Private property only needs the owner’s approval, and the Chicago Park District, Navy Pier, Millennium Park and the CTA issue their own filming permits.

The Chicago Film Office asks for at least 4 full business days for review, at least 5 when the shoot needs traffic control or a drone, and at least 10 for street closures, stunts and special effects. Riverwalk permits also need at least 10 days. Neighbors must get a filming notice at least 48 hours ahead in most wards, and 72 hours in some downtown and North Side wards when you close streets or take more than 3 blocks of parking.

The permit needs a certificate of insurance with general liability of at least $1,000,000 per occurrence and $500,000 per person, naming the City of Chicago as an additional insured. Workers compensation is only required when you hire city police or fire personnel. A new certificate is due for each production, so ask your crew early whether its policy can be endorsed.

The city does not issue drone-only permits, but pilots must hold an FAA Part 107 certificate, fly under 400 feet in daylight and in line of sight, and stay off moving vehicles and away from crowds. In busy areas such as downtown, the city and Chicago Police review the flight plan and may require a closed set, with police and fire costs paid by the production. Windy City Drones, 360 Chicago Tours, Thomas Clark Productions, Lux Point Media and Spark Media Chicago all list drone work.

Mainstream Live Video Agency produces virtual and hybrid events such as conferences, galas and commencements, and Malone Media focuses on live streamed virtual events. Video One Productions and MediaEyes also list live streaming, and Munaco Pictures live streams wedding ceremonies.

For a wedding, an event recap or a quick social clip, a smaller team such as Munaco Pictures, Beauty Couture Productions or GenZ Productions is often enough. For a commercial, a training series or a brand film with several crew roles and a finished edit, start with Video One Productions, Video Parachute, LANE Media & Productions or K3 Video Production.

Listing is free. Use the submit form, pick the categories that fit your work, such as Camera Department or Drone / Aerial DP, and add your city, phone number and a reel so producers can reach you.