MASTERY FILMS – FILM PRODUCTION SERVICES
LOCATION SCOUTING AND SOURCING: BUILDING THE FOUNDATION OF A SUCCESSFUL SHOOT
The late, great Gene Hackman once said, "People use location as a language in films." Choosing the right location for your shoot is often one of the earliest things you’ll want to consider before your production starts firing on all cylinders. Once you know where you’re shooting, then all your other logistical departments ie. transportation, accommodations, art & set dressing, etc., can take the next steps in their preparation processes for the film production.
With this you’ll need location scouting, references, sourcing, updated photos and videos of locations, as well as information on current cost and filming conditions from your local film production company.
Let’s take a look at our usual process for this film production service at Mastery Films:
01
SOURCING & LOGISTICAL ASSESSMENTS
Once we receive your initial ideas regarding the type of locations you’re looking for, we'll be able to provide you with some initial options that are feasible for your shoot.
Speaking of feasibility, this leads into the next important criteria when considering a location: the production logistics. To put it simply, a location cannot merely be decided upon based on aesthetics. Although, the most important factor, it's also important to research and plan out the efficiency of the location for your shoot and budget. To name a few, here are some factors to consider:
- Cost
- Noise levels
- Parking
- Public foot traffic
- Power availability
- Structural limitations
- Weather exposure
- Basecamp areas
- Talent staging areas
- Tech bases
- Craft & catering areas
All of these factors may influence filming activities. As part of our protocols at Mastery Films, we provide in depth reports and insight to ensure every production decision is backed by accurate, actionable information.
02
SCOUTING & TECH RECCE
Now that you have your short list and location deck, it's time to send the location manager out to scout. Location scouting matters for two reasons. First, it helps you find new, original locations that fit the theme of your shoot. Second, for locations you already know, it helps you spot problems early. This way, you avoid unwanted surprises on your setup and shoot days.
This matters because things can change over time. A location's physical appearance might be different now. Permission rules might have changed too. That's why you need fresh photos and videos of the site. You also need to know its exact current condition. Finally, the location department will need to find out what permits and permissions are currently required for shooting, especially if it's a public location.
Once that’s all sorted and the logistics have been made clear, you can then move on to the final phase for locations before you sign on the dotted line: bringing out your director and all the other department heads for a tech recce. This is when all things come into play and the project’s creatives take the forefront and each person will be able to ensure things are working from an updated perspective while also being able to identify any technical requirements prior to filming.
03
AGREEMENTS, PERMITS & PERMISSIONS
As your full-service production company, all location agreements, location release forms and any other permissions and location permits needed for the film process to be arranged seamlessly for your production.
Whether it be municipality permits, national park permits or historical sites & landmark permits, Mastery Films has a broad amount of experience in obtaining these, and will be able to collaborate with you make sure your permits are issued in time, as planned for your production.
What it all comes down to is finding the location that has the right balance between being perfect for your creative vision while also retaining the logistical practicality for your video production service. It may not be easy to find such a location on your own, but that is why Mastery Films is here to help with any location sourcing, location scouting and location references you might need.
If you have a specific country or city in mind for your next shoot, you can check out our other articles and pages below regarding shooting locations.
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