Frequently Asked Questions

What does Edinburgh Film Focus do?
EFF is tasked by the local authorities to promote the Edinburgh, Lothian and Scottish Borders region for on-location film, video and television production. Our knowledge of locations and how the infrastructure works should help save you time and money.

How much do you charge for your services?
Our locations and production advice and support is FREE to producers and location managers.

Can you set up my shoot for me?
No. We can provide essential contacts and advise on procedures to help you save time and money. Our on-line production guide will help you to find local crew and facilities. But you must make the arrangements according to your own schedule.

Is there any general information about Edinburgh Film Focus and what you do?
We hope this web site provides you with most of the information you are looking for. In addition we do produce a colour brochure which you can request by contacting us.

Are there other film offices like yours in Scotland and the rest of the UK?
Scotland boasts a network of film offices covering virtually every city and area. The Scottish Locations Network (http://www.scottishscreenlocations.com/FilmOffice.asp) works closely with Scottish Screen Locations Department.

Can you provide any production or development finance?
There is no production or development funding available directly from the Edinburgh area, but look at our Funding & Incentive page for further information on what is available for the whole for Scotland.

Do we need passports to come to Scotland?
Non UK passport holders require a passport to come to the UK from other countries; and in some cases a visa. Once in the UK you can travel freely to and within Scotland. See the UK Film Council (http://www.ukfilmcouncil.org.uk/filmingUK/enteringtheuk/)

Can you tell me how long it takes to drive to the city boundary, the Borders, and to cities in Scotland and England?
From the city centre it takes 20 mins to drive to the city boundary; to Galashiels - 52 mins; to Glasgow - 57 mins; to Carlisle - 2 hrs 4 mins; to Newcastle - 2 hrs 40 mins; to Stranraer - 3 hrs; to Inverness - 3 hrs 32 mins; to Manchester - 4 hrs 9 mins.

Can you tell me what is filming in your area or scheduled to film?
We are unable to provide that information. Producers prefer that we maintain confidentiality about their production plans.

Do you have any information about holiday accommodation or conference facilities?
Please check Visit Scotland Edinburgh and Lothians (http://www.edinburgh.org) or Visit Scotland Scottish Borders (http://www.scot-borders.co.uk). Alternatively there is Visit Scotland's main web site (www.visitscotland.com) for Scotland-wide info.