Why Film & TV Productions Need Internet in Remote Locations
Starlink internet for remote film production is transforming how crews stay connected in off-grid locations—from mountain ranges and deserts to remote islands and rural farmland. Even in these disconnected environments, reliable internet is a necessity. Whether you’re uploading dailies, transferring footage, sending call sheets, conducting Zoom production meetings, or live-streaming behind-the-scenes content, real-time connectivity is critical to keeping the production on schedule.
What Makes Starlink Ideal for Production?
Starlink offers low-latency, high-speed internet that works almost anywhere, thanks to its constellation of low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites. Unlike cellular hotspots that rely on towers (which may not exist in remote areas), Starlink connects directly to satellites overhead. For production teams, that means you can establish a network within minutes, with no need for fiber lines or cellular signal checks.
- Fast Setup: Get online in under 15 minutes
- High Speeds: Average 100–200 Mbps download speeds
- Low Latency: Essential for real-time collaboration
- Portability: Compact hardware that’s easy to deploy on location
How Production Teams Use Starlink on Set
On film and television shoots, internet access is required across multiple departments:
- Production Office: Sending schedules, scripts, emails, and call sheets
- Editorial: Uploading footage to post-production teams in real time
- Art & Wardrobe: Accessing cloud-based reference materials
- Media Teams: Streaming BTS content or updating social media
- Remote Collaboration: Video conferencing with stakeholders or studios
Use Case: On-Location Shoot in the Sierra Nevada
One of our clients recently filmed a commercial in the Sierra Nevada mountains, far beyond cellular range. Made By WiFi provided a Starlink hotspot with portable power backup. The team used it to send raw footage to post-production teams in Los Angeles and hold daily Zoom calls with agency stakeholders. The Starlink setup performed flawlessly, with stable speeds averaging 130 Mbps download and 20 Mbps upload across 20+ connected devices.
Tips for Using Starlink on Set
- Check for Line of Sight: Ensure the dish has a clear view of the sky with no trees or buildings blocking the signal.
- Secure Power: Use a generator, battery bank, or shore power for uninterrupted connectivity.
- Mount Smart: Use tripods or roof racks for elevated placement of the dish in rough terrain.
- Bring a Backup: For mission-critical connectivity, consider dual Starlink kits or a failover option.
Reliable Internet, No Matter the Location
For film and TV crews, time is money—and delays due to internet downtime can quickly throw off a tight production schedule. With Starlink, you gain fast, stable, and portable connectivity in places where other ISPs can’t reach. Whether you’re filming a documentary in the rainforest or a music video in the desert, Made By WiFi can deliver Starlink hotspot rentals customized for your location, timeline, and bandwidth needs.
Need Starlink for your next shoot? Contact us to get a quote today.
