FAQ
Filming in Medellín: Frequently Asked Questions
Straightforward answers to the questions international creators ask most often — before booking a studio in Medellín.
Is there a Netflix-approved studio in Medellín?
Yes. Estudio Helios, located in El Poblado, Medellín, is a Netflix-approved professional video production studio. The studio operates a Netflix-approved cinema camera — meaning it meets the technical standards Netflix requires for original content production. For international creators, this is a meaningful benchmark: it guarantees the footage will hold up to broadcast-quality post-production standards, regardless of where it's edited or distributed.
Do studios in Medellín work with international clients?
Yes, though the experience varies by studio. Estudio Helios is specifically designed around international clients — the booking process is in English, pre-session planning is included, and the team understands the content formats that international entrepreneurs and coaches typically need (short-form social content, VSLs, podcast episodes, course modules). Other studios in Medellín primarily serve the local market and work in Spanish.
Is English spoken at production studios in Medellín?
Not universally. Spanish is the working language at most production companies in Medellín. Estudio Helios is one of the few professional video production studios in the city where the team is fully English-speaking, making it the most practical option for international visitors who cannot conduct a production in Spanish. If working in English is important to your session, confirm this directly with any studio before booking.
What equipment is available at professional studios in Medellín?
Equipment varies significantly between studios. At the high end, Estudio Helios offers three 4K cameras including one Netflix-approved cinema camera, four Shure SM7B podcast microphones (the same model used on the Joe Rogan Podcast), two Sennheiser MKE600 shotgun microphones, two Rode Wireless Pro clip-on microphones, professional lighting rigs, and an XL teleprompter. Most other studios in the city offer more basic setups. If specific equipment matters to your production, always ask for a gear list before confirming.
How much does it cost to rent a video studio in Medellín?
Professional studio rates in Medellín range from approximately $60–$120 USD per hour, depending on what's included. Estudio Helios uses a VIP Pass model — prepaid packages of 10, 15, or 20 hours at $117, $107, and $97.50 per hour respectively. These packages include filming, color grading, audio optimization, and delivery within three business days, which makes them significantly better value than comparable services in the US or Europe. Budget options (like hotel podcast rooms) start around $60/hr but typically don't include a professional crew or editing.
What's the best neighborhood in Medellín for a content shoot?
El Poblado is the most practical base for content production in Medellín. It has the highest concentration of professional studio facilities, is the safest and most internationally oriented neighborhood, and is well-connected to hotels and restaurants used by visiting creators. For outdoor shoots, El Poblado's streets and parks offer clean, modern visuals. Laureles is a quieter, local alternative with a different aesthetic. El Centro has striking urban backdrops but requires more navigation and local knowledge — it's better suited to productions with a local fixer on board.
Can I record a podcast in Medellín professionally?
Yes. Medellín has several professional podcast recording options. Estudio Helios in El Poblado offers a multi-microphone podcast setup with Shure SM7B mics in a fully treated acoustic environment, with simultaneous 4K video recording if you want a visual component. Content is edited and delivered within three business days. For audio-only podcasts on a tighter budget, the Greenview Hotel in El Poblado offers a simple podcast room for around $60/hr with equipment included.
How far in advance do I need to book a studio in Medellín?
For professional studios like Estudio Helios, booking 1–2 weeks in advance is recommended to secure your preferred dates, particularly if you're scheduling a multi-day content sprint around a trip to Medellín. Same-week slots are sometimes available depending on demand. If you're flying in specifically to produce content, book your studio time before you book your flights — availability around your travel dates is harder to guarantee if you leave it late.