Aside from just finding a place that looks cool, here are some practical concerns you should consider when location scouting.
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When it comes to location scouting, it’s not always about finding an exotic oasis for your film. In reality, most location scouts are searching for cool office spaces, lobbies, coffee shops, restaurants, and downtown areas that will look visually appealing on screen.
There’s a reason why many shows use the same locations repeatedly, like the Quality Cafe or famous spots like the 6th Street Viaduct and Sable Ranch. These places offer the desired aesthetic while also providing the practical amenities that the crew needs.
Basic Production Needs: Power, Parking, and Potty
One essential requirement for every shoot is power. Without it, you can’t operate a camera. If you’ll be on location for an extended period, make sure you have enough batteries or a way to recharge. Don’t assume that a few outlets will be sufficient. Consider all the equipment that requires power, from lights and monitors to your cell phone.
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Transportation is another major concern. Whether it’s a large-scale shoot in the wilderness or a small shoot in the city, you need to find parking for everyone. Does the location have its own lot, or will you need to use a nearby parking garage? If it’s a garage, is it free or at what rate? Plan accordingly and consider implementing a guest list or ticket system for the crew. And don’t forget to provide food and water for everyone.
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After eating and drinking, you and your crew will need access to bathrooms. Don’t overlook this basic necessity. Make sure there are nearby facilities or plan for portable toilets if needed.
But nobody had provided bathrooms on the boats used by the crew or on the set, a 1,000-ton atoll made of steel that is supposed to serve as home for Mr. Costner and the other good guys. So when nature called, the actors and crew had to flag down a boat to take them to a barge near shore that was equipped with portable toilets. — Wall Street Journal
Check for Location Hazards, Risks, Weather, and Annoyances
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When considering location hazards, it’s not always about shooting near a nuclear test site like in a John Wayne picture. More often, it’s about mundane risks that still need to be taken seriously. Are there any potential dangers at the location, such as tricky steps or poison ivy? Will there be a clear path to the fire escape for everyone on set?
Don’t forget to account for small annoyances. How close is the location to the airport? Will you need to pause shooting every time a plane flies overhead? Also, consider the average weather and temperature for the location during your shoot. Will there be non-stop rain or heavy snowfall?
Location Measurements and Overall Physical State
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Once you have a potential location in mind, it’s crucial to gather specific details about the spot. Scout and survey the area thoroughly. Determine the direction the location is facing and where the cameras will be positioned. Take note of the total space available. If it’s a small coffee shop, ensure there’s enough room for actors, set pieces, cameras, and crew. Measure the length, width, and height of the area.
Pay attention to the existing lighting conditions. Are there windows or sunroofs that provide natural light? What is the color temperature and output of the existing lighting? Check if there’s space for additional lights and confirm the number of outlets, total amps, and the location of the breaker box. If there’s no power, plan for a power generator and calculate the necessary cable length from the set to the generator.
Lastly, assess the physical state of the building or location. If it’s an abandoned warehouse, ensure it’s safe to be in. Look for cracks in the floor or uneven ground. You may need to use apple boxes to level out camera equipment or find a solution for dolly tracks.
Check for Permissions and Conflicting Events
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If you’re shooting guerrilla-style, you might skip this step, but it’s worth considering. Let’s say you want to shoot a scene in a public park. If there are pedestrians or people around, you’ll need to obtain model releases or post signage indicating that filming is taking place.
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