In out last blog, we mentioned a key aspect of video production: Location Scouting. Boiled down, it means finding the place the video or photography will be taken. The Producer(s) and more over the Director will usually have an ideal location or setting in mind. This is an important discussion to have, and should be considered when hiring talent and renting equipment. Also, if long-distance travel is required, it needs factored into your budget.
When scout locating, there are a few factors to keep in mind. First, you need to be there. You can research a site all day on the net, but there are places the net just doesn’t see. You need your own eyes to look around for that oh-so-perfect spot. Travel around, and see what’s there, as well as who…which is the next step. Talk to the locals. The people who live there probably know the best places to meet the needs of what you’re trying to film. Taxi drivers and hotel concierge are ripe with info on the locale. Diners and delis can tell you people to talk to, maybe even hand over numbers. The local library can give you a good history on the myths and lore, while building code info is available at the proper government facility.
Rememeber, you're there to act as eyes for the Director, so give him something to look at. Take lots of photos and one or two videos to show panoramic views. Make sure you have lights and lenses of various lengths. In the same way a storyboard for a screenplay gives the Director a feel for the actors in a scene, your photos will give them a sense of the needed lighting and materials. Take your time and cover your bases. If something peaks your interest, it may peak theirs as well, so leave no stone unturned.
The last bit would seem to be the most obvious, but usually isn’t. When leaving to scout, try to leave a day early, or schedule an extra day after the scout. Chances are you’re in an area you’ve never been, so look around. Pick up a local paper. Try the hotel restaurant or check out the local mall or metro-park. Take some photos there as well. Buy a post card or two. It does happen that after the scout, you won’t be asked back, so enjoy the time while you’re there.
Whether it's a corporate boardroom or a feature film location, I'AMedia often scouts for productions, in our own neighborhoods and around the country. From Big Sur, California to Orlando, Florida, we strive to bring your vision to reality. Contact us today to discuss your project's location needs.
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