High-Speed Connectivity for On-Location Film Production

Client: An independent film production company working on a project in rural Scotland.

Industry: Film & TV Production

The Challenge:

The production company was filming a major project in a remote location in the Scottish Highlands. The area had minimal mobile network coverage, making it difficult for the crew to transfer large video files, collaborate with off-site editors, and access live streaming services for remote dailies. With tight deadlines and the need for real-time communication between on-site and remote teams, the production faced significant delays due to lack of connectivity.

The Solution:

Seven Stars Services provided a custom-built connectivity solution using Starlink satellite internet for the remote location, ensuring high-speed internet even in an area with poor cellular coverage. We also supplemented the setup with 4G/5G routers for redundancy, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity during periods of high bandwidth usage.

The solution included:

  • Starlink satellite connectivity, providing fast, reliable internet with download speeds of up to 150 Mbps in the remote filming location.
  • 4G/5G routers as a backup network, ensuring the production crew could remain online even if there were temporary issues with the satellite connection.
  • Mobile Wi-Fi hotspots for crew members working across the site, allowing them to stay connected no matter where they were on location.
  • Secure VPN setup, enabling the team to transfer sensitive video files securely to post-production teams based in London.

The Result:

  • Seamless Communication: The production crew was able to collaborate in real-time with off-site editors, stream dailies, and communicate effectively with external stakeholders, all while maintaining a fast, stable connection in a remote location.
  • Faster File Transfers: Large video files were transferred quickly and securely, avoiding delays in the post-production process and keeping the project on track for its tight deadlines.
  • Improved Efficiency: The mobile Wi-Fi hotspots ensured that crew members could remain connected at all times, enhancing productivity and streamlining on-site operations.
  • Cost Savings: By leveraging Starlink satellite technology and avoiding costly delays, the production saved money while maintaining high levels of operational efficiency.