The evolution of virtual production technology continues to redefine what’s possible in filmmaking, and Albuquerque is now firmly on the map with its newest studio: ABQ Castle Studios. Located in northern Albuquerque, this state-of-the-art facility is one of the first virtual production studios in New Mexico, offering a fresh toolkit for filmmakers and TV producers looking to innovate without breaking the bank.

Tim Pipher, owner of ABQ Castle Studios, is no stranger to virtual production. Following the success of his first facility in California, Pipher has brought his expertise to Albuquerque, a city already gaining traction as a production hotspot. With New Mexico’s competitive tax incentives and growing crew base, this latest addition is poised to attract projects of all scales.

“The sets keep going even when the physical boundaries are done,” Pipher explained, highlighting how virtual production can extend storytelling possibilities far beyond the constraints of a physical backlot. “We have some sets that are literally miles long that we can do from right here on the stage.”

Elevating Albuquerque’s Film Industry

Albuquerque’s new virtual production studio is a significant milestone for the region’s creative ecosystem. Cyndy McCrossen, Film Liaison for the city’s Economic Development Department, sees the studio as a game-changer. “I think it’s going to enrich the possibilities for the creatives who are bringing these projects here,” she said, emphasizing the potential for both cost savings and artistic freedom.

Virtual production stages are increasingly being embraced by filmmakers and TV producers alike, offering the ability to craft immersive worlds while minimizing logistical challenges. ABQ Castle Studios is entering the scene at a pivotal moment when the industry is looking to balance visual ambition with fiscal responsibility.

Streamlining Production Without Compromising Quality

Pipher believes the studio’s design will appeal to productions of all sizes, particularly those seeking the scale of blockbuster visuals without the accompanying price tag. “Because of our setup, they can shoot what appears to be big-budget productions without having that big budget,” he noted.

A New Era for Albuquerque Productions

ABQ Castle Studios joins a growing list of facilities in New Mexico that cater to the film and TV industry, solidifying Albuquerque’s reputation as a competitive production hub. Cinelease has a large footprint in the city with 5 soundstages and more than 100,000 square feet of production space, and Netflix purchased ABQ Studios in 2018, expanding the property to 12 soundstages on 103 acres. With the state’s lucrative 25-35% tax credit for qualifying projects, producers have long looked to New Mexico for cost-effective yet high-quality filming options. The addition of a cutting-edge virtual production stage adds another layer to what the region can offer.