The Bermuda Tourism Authority is bidding to woo global entertainment companies to the island.

“Increasingly, we talk with film and TV crews about shooting their productions in Bermuda, because they know our picturesque landscape and geographic location sets us apart from other destinations,” said Tiffani Cailor from the BTA.

“Recent activity has included a US cable reality show, a UK film location scouting visit and an NBC-created programme slated for US East Coast television markets.”

Ms Cailor added that international visitors invariably hire a Bermudian production company to help with their efforts, thereby generating further income for the island.

Nhuri Bashir of Burnt House Productions agreed with Ms Cailor’s assessment, adding that film crews from abroad also tend to hire other local talent, such as models and make-up artists.

“Visiting film crews have broadened the visibility of Bermuda and the opportunities for local production talent,” he said.

“They contribute to the equipment rental business, and also connect locals to international talent and resources in the entertainment industry.” Since joining the Association of Film Commissioners International in August 2014, the BTA has become Bermuda’s certified film commission, while strengthening its link with similar entities around the world.

As well as making a three-minute YouTube promotional video, the BTA has created a section on its website offering production crews information about shooting in Bermuda.

This includes local production company listings and a guide on how to navigate the Customs and Immigration process. Its representatives also attended the AFCI Locations & Global Finance Show this spring, where they generated more than 60 new leads on filming opportunities in Bermuda, while incentivisation strategies are also under discussion with the Government.

Michael Fahy, the minister responsible for tourism, said: “We want to ensure our regulations are at least as competitive as other jurisdictions in the region, so that opportunities come to Bermuda instead of going elsewhere.”

•Local production companies who would like to be listed on the BTA website can e-mail jdouglas@bermudatourism.com