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Northern Virginia District

The Northern Virginia District is the newest region of the state to hold official district designation, however it's quickly become a strong outpost for VPA members. 

Northern Virginia is often considered to be part of the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area, but it has a long and rich history in the production of film, television, news, cable series, and educational videos in its own right. Anyone filming in the DMV (District of Columbia, Maryland, Virginia) will find that Northern Virginia is well-supplied with crew, production companies, studios, equipment suppliers, and talent and casting companies.

The proximity of Discovery Communications (The Discovery and Learning Channels), PBS and the National Geographic Television has helped to elevate the local production industry.

Located in Fairfax, George Mason University is home to an exceptional film & video studies program with many filmmakers and production professionals that contribute to the region’s creative community.

Upcoming events

  • Camera Department Cinematography Showcase: Unlock the Power of Pro Gear!

    • 19 Feb 2026
    • 6:30 PM - 9:00 PM
    • DC Camera - 2810 Merrilee Dr Suite B, Fairfax, VA 22031
    Register


    Calling all professional filmmakers, cinematographers, DPs, and corporate videographers in the DMV area! Join us for an exclusive hands-on event at DC Camera’s headquarters in Merrifield, VA. Dive deep into the world of high-end cinematography with expert-led demos on top-tier cameras from ARRI, Sony, RED, and more. Learn about their unique advantages, seamless workflows, and cutting-edge capabilities that can elevate your film production game.

    Tickets are limited—registration is required. Don’t miss this opportunity to network, explore camera rentals, and gain insights from industry pros in Virginia’s thriving film scene!

    Show details

  • 2026 Virginia Production Alliance State of the Industry Event

    • 25 Feb 2026
    • 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Hardywood Craft Brewery - 2410 Ownby Lane, Richmond, VA 23220
    • 1
    Register


    The Virginia Production Alliance invites you to one of our biggest events of the year! Our annual STATE OF THE INDUSTRY event is a celebration of film and video production in Virginia.

    At this event, film professionals and those who aspire to filmmaking mix, mingle, get informed, and share information about the current state of the film industry. We will have updates from the Virginia Film Office and legislative news and updates.

    Enjoy a complimentary drink ticket and light dinner! VPA Members are $5, guests are $10. This is a great opportunity to become a member!

    We will be offering vendor tables this year. Sponsors/Members will be $50; Nonmembers will be $75. You may register for a vendor table on the event registration form HERE.

    Show details

  • Hampton Roads District Mixer Event

    • 26 Feb 2026
    • 6:30 PM - 9:00 PM
    • Thin Brew Line Brewing Company - 1375 Oceana Blvd. Virginia Beach, VA
    Register


    Join us for a fun and mixer event in Hampton Roads District! Members and guests are welcome to attend. We will provide food and drinks, come ready to network with the Virginia Production Alliance Hampton Roads District!

    Show details


DISTRICT CHAIR

LARS SANDVIK

Lars is President and co-owner of ThunderShot Studios. Starting out in the industry on national automotive advertising projects, Lars learned the value of working for different types of directors and experimented with a broad range of visual techniques. He is now a multiple Emmy Award-winning cinematographer and his expertise as a director of photography, lighting designer and jib operator keep him in demand with producers from HBO, Discovery Communications, Bravo, PBS, and the History Channel. Lars is a founding member of the Northern Virginia District where he serves as Chair and has served on the VPA's Executive Board of Trustees since 2017.

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