A room can do a lot of the storytelling before anyone steps in front of the camera. A table beneath a chandelier can set the scene for a fashion shoot, while a ticked-away basement bar can give a short film the feel of a late-night rendezvous.
If you’re looking for a photoshoot or filming location in Southend-On-Sea, San Fairie Ann offers two distinct spaces on Alexandra Street: a wonderfully quirky restaurant and a private basement with the feel of a 1920s speakeasy. Here’s how to decide which space could work for your project and what to check before shoot day.
The Restaurant: chandeliers and eclectic interiors
Our main restaurant lends itself to shoots where you want the room to be part of the story. Think a fashion editorial over cocktails, a lifestyle campaign around a laid table or a short film scene set over dinner.
If you need several looks from one location, build your shot list around what’s already there. Start with a wide shot that takes in the chandeliers, move in for portraits at the table and finish with close-ups of food, drinks or styling details. A change of angle can give you a different feel without having to reset the whole room.
The basement: a private speakeasy with its own bar
Downstairs, our private basement has a more intimate feel. With its own bar and speakeasy character, its natural backdrop for a drinks campaign, a portrait series or short film that calls for a more atmospheric setting.
You could frame a conversation across the bar, use the long table for an ensemble scene or make the room the backdrop for a series of cocktail close-ups. If you’re filming dialogue or bringing lighting stands, a viewing is a good chance to check how much room you’ll have around the set and listen for any background sound.
What to check before booking a shoot location
A space can look exactly right in photos and still need a few practical checks. if you can, visit with your photographer or camera operator and talk through the shots you want to get.
Light: If you’re replying on natural light, try to view the space around the time you’d like to shoot. For your own lighting, ask about sockets and where stands can go.
Sound: If you’re recording dialogue, flag it early so you can discuss background noise and whether you’ll need exclusive access.
Access and setup: Check the route for bringing in kit, especially if you’re considering the basement. Allow time for setup, styling and packing down.
Furniture and props: Share any plans to move tables or dress the bar and ask where your cast or models can get ready between shots.
Enquire about a photoshoot or short film at San Fairie Ann
If you’re planning a brand photoshoot, editorial, content shoot or short film in Southend, tell us a little about what you’re making. A preferred date, rough timings, cast and crew numbers and a short brief or mood board will help us discuss availability and which space might suit your project.
Explore our private hire spaces or email hello@sanfairieann.co.uk to enquire about your shoot or arrange a viewing.