Here is a list of 6 things to consider when you are securing locations. Keep this in mind, and you’ll be well on your way to finding great locations and sleeping with peace of mind.
1. Does the location match your story?
This sounds more like common sense but if your story calls for a hospital hallway, try to shoot in a hospital hallway. Your production designer will love you for it. If that doesn’t work, then maybe shooting in a school or retirement home hallway will work. You never know until you ask about great locations.
2. Scout at the right time.
Most people don’t think about this when looking at locations but try to scout at the time you plan on shooting. You may be surprised with the way the sun falls depending on the time of day.
3. Check for power outlets.
You don’t want to be caught in a place that has no power. It’s also a good practice to check some of the outlets to make sure they work. Otherwise you’ll be running a bunch of stingers all over the place.
4. Look at light
Sometimes a location will light it self. Where does the sun fall? Are there practicals that you can use to accent or possibly motivate a light.
5. Listen.
Clean, high-quality sound is critical in making a video that rises above the ordinary, and it’s silence that ensures you get the location sound that you came for.
6. Get permission.
I always hear it’s better to ask for fogginess rather than permission. Well once you reach a certain point in your career, the run and gun style of film-making can only take you so far. Get the right clearances to shoot and protect yourself and the production company and you’ll be able to sleep better at night.
Are there any other things you should consider when picking locations that I left off? Want to share it with the community? Let me know. Join the Capturing Light Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/capturinglightcommunity/.