Maryland is the perfect backdrop for television and movies, offering mountains, beaches, cities, and countryside all within reach. Maryland’s geographic assets, paired with the Film Production Activity Tax Credit, have caught the eye of Paramount, Netflix and HBO in recent years. Maryland boasts a strong talent pipeline, fueled by top-tier actors and crew, along with dedicated TV and film programs offered by the state’s diverse colleges and universities.
View from Federal Hill
Downtown Baltimore
St. Michaels Waterfront
Eastern Shore
Antietam National Battlefield
Western Maryland
Downtown Frederick
Capital Region
Fell’s Point
Baltimore
Woodmere Town Center
Lanham
Redwood Street
Downtown Baltimore
America in Miniature
Maryland offers filmmakers a stunning range of backdrops all within easy reach – from the bustling urban energy of Baltimore’s skyline and historic waterfronts to charming small towns, rolling countryside, and picturesque coastal scenes along the Chesapeake Bay. Its diverse landscapes can double for almost anywhere in America, giving productions incredible visual variety without ever crossing state lines. Whether you’re looking for gritty city streets, serene forests, or sunlit beaches, Maryland delivers cinematic beauty and versatility in every frame.
Maryland is committed to supporting filmmakers, producers, and creative teams by offering production incentives that make it easier — and more affordable — to bring your project to life here. Whether you’re working on a feature film, TV series, documentary, commercial, or music video, our incentives are designed to stretch your budget while giving you access to the state’s diverse locations and talented workforce.
Film Production Activity Tax Credit
Get up to 28% back on qualified in-state costs (30% for series) when you film 50% of your project in Maryland. To qualify and reduce your bottom line, productions spending at least $250,000—or $25,000 for Maryland Small Films—must apply before starting production in Maryland.
You can skip Maryland’s 6% sales tax on rentals and purchases of equipment, lighting, props, costumes, and more—thanks to a tax exemption certificate that provides upfront savings during production.
“Shooting in Maryland didn’t just bring authenticity to the film—it gave it a distinct visual identity, setting it apart from productions typically confined to Los Angeles backlots or sound stages.”
Ben Getz, Actor & Producer Gothic Slayers
From Set to Screen, Talent to Bring Every Production to Life
Maryland offers access to a deep pool of skilled crew and seasoned actors, supporting every stage of film production. Talent from institutions like Towson University, Johns Hopkins, MICA, Morgan State, and the University of Maryland, bring expertise in cinematography, production, post-production, visual effects, and design –ensuring filmmakers have the creative and technical professionals they need to bring any project to life.
If your production will be utilizing union crew and actors, contact the appropriate union directly.
Doni Mason Business Agent Teamsters Local 355 dmason355@icloud.com (M) 443-683-0606
Ryan Hastings Manager, Entertainment Contracts & Local Administration SAG-AFTRA Washington-Mid Atlantic Local ryan.hastings@sagaftra.org DL) 301.634.4855
Maryland Crew & Resource Directory
The Maryland Crew and Resource Directory allows producers and potential clients to easily locate local film, television and media industry professionals and support services.
Lioness filmed in Maryland for six months in 2022. From the creator of Yellowstone (Taylor Sheridan), the Paramount+ production filmed in eight counties, including both the Baltimore and Washington, D.C. metropolitan suburbs, as well as Western Maryland and the Eastern Shore.
Lady in the Lake generated more than $100 million in economic impact while filming in Maryland. The AppleTV+ production began shooting in May 2022 and filmed throughout the region for three and a half months. During that time it created more than 1,100 jobs, utilized goods and services from more than 2,400 local businesses, and reserved more than 32,000 hotel room nights.
The HBO, six-hour production is based on Baltimore Sun reporter Justin Fenton’s book, which focuses on the story of the Baltimore Police Department’s Gun Trace Task Force. This series brings both David Simon, television writer and producer, and Baltimore-native Josh Charles (The Good Wife, Sports Night), back to the local spotlight.
During its six seasons, the groundbreaking Netflix series hired an average of more than 2,000 Maryland residents per season, purchased or rented goods or services from more than 2,000 Maryland businesses per season and had an economic impact of nearly $120 million per season.
Maryland’s Film Production Activity Tax Credit has been a proven catalyst for success—attracting major productions and fueling local creative talent. Recent projects filmed in the state include Paramount+’s Special Ops: Lioness, Apple TV+’s Lady in the Lake, and HBO’s We Own This City, along with numerous acclaimed independent films.
Over the years, Maryland has set the scene for iconic productions that defined their eras, from groundbreaking hits like Netflix’s House of Cards and The Blair Witch Project, to memorable films such as Wedding Crashers, Runaway Bride, and Diner.
Film Production Activity Tax Credit funding for FY26
$1.2 million
Film Production Activity Tax Credit funding for Maryland small films in FY26
Maryland Film Festivals
Maryland’s dynamic film festival scene celebrates bold storytelling and diverse voices —from local talent to emerging and international filmmakers —offering year-round opportunities to showcase work, engage audiences, and connect with industry professionals.
