As a freelance cameraman based in Brighton for over 10 years, I've had the pleasure of filming in countless locations across this vibrant seaside city. Whether you're shooting a commercial, documentary, or artistic project, Brighton has diverse range of filming locations to suit any production. In this location guide, I'll share my local insider knowledge on the top filming sites and also share some tips on how to capture stunning footage in our city by the sea.
Why Film in Brighton?
Before I get into specific film locations in Brighton, here's a quick overview of why Brighton makes such a fantastic filming destination:
Gorgeous coastal landscapes, from the pebbled beaches to the glittering Marina. The sea makes for an evocative, atmospheric backdrop.
Iconic and quirky landmarks like the Royal Pavilion, Brighton Pier, and the twisting Lanes offer rich visual variety.
Proximity to the rolling South Downs countryside provides scenic rural contrast to the urban city streets.
Supportive local film office dedicated to helping productions work smoothly.
Active creative community and local talent to utilise for your shoots.
Compact and walkable size with great transport links makes logistics straightforward.
Diverse neighbourhoods and architecture spanning vibrant street art, Victorian promenades, high-tech installations and more.
Dynamic, eclectic culture from markets to music venues suits any genre or subject matter.
Let's look at some of my favourite filming spots as a local videographer...
As a videographer based in Brighton, I find endless inspiration in the vibrant North Laine neighbourhood for my filming. Just north of the Lanes, this once downtrodden area has blossomed into a thriving creative hub packed with colourful shops, street art, and eclectic characters. I love capturing the vibrant street scenes of performers, markets, and quirky boutiques that give North Laine its artsy soul. Tracking shots following street art trails or highlighting the funky shopkeeper styles reveal the area's alternative spirit. The blend of gritty and grand architecture also makes an interesting backdrop, from graffitied doorways to historic buildings like the Royal Pavilion. North Laine comes alive on camera - the energy and visual textures truly convey the diverse creative community that saved it from demolition. This is Brighton's beating bohemian heart.
Street Art Brighton
Working as a videographer in Brighton, the city's vibrant street art scene proves invaluable for creating visually striking footage. Brighton has become renowned for its amazing urban art. Entire streets and networks of alleyways are covered in stunning murals and graffiti. The range of creative murals, graffiti tags, and stencils scattered across buildings provides endless possibilities as colourful backdrops. I often capture timelapse's of artists at work to showcase their creative process. Tracking shots following street art trails tell a dynamic visual story as new pieces constantly emerge. The gritty urban textures combined with artistic talent give my footage an edgy, contemporary style. When filming profiles of local artists, their colorful works come alive on camera. Street art reveals the beating creative pulse underneath Brighton's polished exterior - it's a key part of what gives this city its distinctive visual soul. My footage would feel incomplete without shots of these textured, ever-changing outdoor galleries.Two hotspots I film regularly are Trafalgar Lane and Market Street. The constantly changing artwork by local artists provides an edgy contrast to Brighton's polished seafront. It's the perfect place to capture the city's creative underground culture.
West Pier
As a Brighton-based videographer, I'm drawn to filming at the striking ruins of the old West Pier. The haunting skeletal remains of the once grand Victorian pier that jut out into the sea make for an evocative, almost eerie backdrop. I like to capture the rusted iron columns being battered by waves during winter storms. Or shoot timelapses of the pier structure shifting in the golden light at sunset. The constantly crumbling state of the ruins tells the story of the pier's demise in a visual way. I'll often frame shots using the derelict pier as a foreground element, with the iconic Brighton Palace Pier still bustling with life in the distance. The contrast between the two structures is visually compelling, almost metaphorical. Filming at the West Pier ruins truly connects me to the enduring yet fading grandeur of Brighton's seafront history.
I find Brighton's Level Skatepark to be one of the best spots in the city to capture footage. The polished concrete plaza and bowls provide the perfect urban backdrop. My camera tracks riders as they ollie over ledges, grind rails, drop into the bowl, and catch big air. The great thing about Level is the variety - shots of newbies tentatively trying out street sections contrast with experienced athletes tearing up the main bowl. I'll set up low angles with a fisheye lens to convey the speed and energy as skaters whiz by. Slow motion clips reveal tricks in dramatic detail. And I love framing sun flare shots as skaters kick up concrete dust. With its smooth surfaces and continuous motion, Level Skatepark allows me to create dynamic videos that capture the essence of skate culture in Brighton. My footage radiates with the infectious adrenaline that courses through this spot.
As a videographer capturing the essence of Brighton's neighborhoods, I always enjoy shooting in the diverse, artsy area of Kemptown. Located just east of the city center, its funky blend of colorful shops, cafes, and LGBTQ+ pride make it a vibrant area to shoot. For compelling street scenes, I'll frame up tracking shots along St James's Street, capturing the eclectic mix of vintage boutiques, vinyl stores, and cabaret pubs. The area has a great creative energy - I've filmed many local artists, performers, and characters around here. Kemptown Beach also makes an interesting backdrop with its pebbled shoreline and proximity to the towering Brighton Pier. And the annual Pride events offer awesome opportunities to capture the diverse community in full celebration mode! Kemptown reveals a true slice of local life.
Undercliff Walk in Brighton
I'm always on the lookout for interesting routes to shoot while out filming in Brighton. One of my recent discoveries is the Undercliff Walk between the Marina and Saltdean. This flat seaside path offers nearly 5km of uninterrupted coastal views as it carves along the base of the towering white cliffs. It's a great spot to capture the crashing waves against the concrete seawalls and get dynamic tracking shots of cyclists and joggers enjoying the route. I like to ride it early in the morning when the angled sunlight produces dramatic cliffs shadows and sparkling sea reflections. The stark concrete and pebbled path also make an interesting textural backdrop for interviews or lifestyle shooting. Just be sure to pack some sand-proof camera gear and a jacket - the sea winds can get brisk!
Brighton Palace Pier
No filming trip to Brighton is complete without capturing our beloved Pier! This is one of the most bustling, picturesque spots in the city. The historic structure jutting into the sea has a nostalgic, almost fantastical energy. Its bustling mix of fairground rides, food stalls, and beachgoers constantly in motion make for great tracking shots and Timelapse's. I'll often set up on the beach with a long lens to capture the ant-like movement of people against the expansive sea and sky. The glittering lights of the carousel and Ferris wheel at dusk create a nostalgic, dreamlike atmosphere on camera. If I'm lucky, I can get access to shoot atop the rollercoaster for a thrilling aerial perspective. From its Victorian iron arches to the shrieking thrill seekers, Palace Pier encapsulates the timeless sights, sounds, and energy of a quintessential English seaside pleasure palace. My footage comes alive in this frenetic, larger-than-life setting.
Brighton Bandstand
This is one of Brighton's hidden gems - a beautifully preserved Victorian bandstand right on the seafront. It makes for an iconic filming spot, especially if you can catch a performance.
I like to frame vocalists or musicians within the round structure, with views of the sea behind them. You really get a sense of Brighton's history and seaside spirit.
Brighton Open Market
In my role as a videographer, who often films in Brighton, I particularly enjoy the Open Market. This covered space offers a rich mix of stalls and a variety of personalities. I guide my camera through its aisles, showcasing the array of produce, crafts, antiques, and street food. Shots of shoppers and vendors interacting hint at a global community vibe. Close-ups of food being prepared add a sensory layer. While the Brighton seafront has its touristy spots, this market offers a genuine taste of the city's diverse culture. Through my lens, the Open Market always feels lively and authentic.
Brighton Seafront
No list of Brighton filming locations is complete without our stunning seafront. I'm constantly capturing new angles along this vibrant stretch.
Iconic Victorian-era spots like Madeira Terrace or the grand waterfront mansions exude vintage seaside charm. And nothing beats the view from the futuristic British Airways i360 tower!
Brighton Cameraman Insider Tips:
Here are a few quick tips from my experience filming locally:
Get to know the permitting process and film office staff who can support your shoots.
Schedule shoots early mornings or off-season to avoid massive crowds.
Keep a flexible schedule as the weather changes fast - have indoor backup options.
Talk to local artists and vendors you want to feature - they often have great stories.
Hire local crew members who know Brighton's best insider spots!
I hope this guide gives you a sense of the diversity and creative energy here. Let me know if you need any tips for your upcoming Brighton film project! Our city has so much to offer on camera.
If you are looking for a Freelance Videographer in Brighton contact cameramanbrighton.co.uk
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