When it comes to filming or shooting for a project, one of the most challenging components can be scouting out the best location. What is a location scout for film and why is location scouting so important? A location scout is a team member who goes out to find the perfect film setting based on their expertise, and it’s important because it is how various parts of the project are melded together once scriptwriters, producers and directors have decided what kind of scenery they would like for certain shots. 

Tips for Location Scouting for Film

1. Do Your Research

The first thing you will want to do when scouting a location is do your research based on what makes a good filming location for your project. Find spots that you think your team will like and know your way around. Is this a spot that gets used often for filming? What are the rates? Does this location have a dedicated team? Do you need specific permits to film here? When you do your research, you come better prepared to discuss and make a thorough decision.

2. Be Upfront About the Details

You will also want to be upfront about the details of your shoot. Let’s say you’re looking for filming rentals in Los Angeles, and you want the setting to be dark and gritty, you want there to be separate rooms for changing and different sets, and you need access to lights for shooting, that will all need to be communicated in the upfront so you’re on the same page with the vendor or location manager. This will make both of your lives that much easier.

3. Always Arrive Early

Always arrive early when you are scouting for venue rentals for film shoots. This shows you take your job seriously and sheds a positive light on your professionalism and punctuality. This will make people want to work with you because it shows you are responsible and respectful. This also helps avoid missing your appointment if things like traffic or needing to get gas slow you down.

4. Introduce Your Team

You will also want to make sure you introduce your team so everyone can have open conversations when it comes to certain components of the shoot. This will also help the property or location managers become more comfortable with you and your team, knowing who everyone is.

5. Keep It Short and Simple

When it comes to booking event venues for filming, it’s always good to keep it short and simple. Go in organized, doing your research ahead of time, and know what you’re looking for. You can usually tell within the first ten minutes if this is the right location or not, and quite often, you are looking at numerous locations per day. Take notes and get in and out.

6. Have Questions Prepared

Having questions prepared to go into your scouting will also help keep things short, simple, and organized. Make a list beforehand consult with your team and bring them to the location. That way you have a list ready to go and don’t have to waste time trying to think of any or worse, forgetting questions in the moment and having a follow-up afterward.

7. Wait To Make the Final Decision

Finally, wait to make your final decision with your team after the scouting. Even if you know you have found the right location, you want to make sure you discuss first and don’t come across as too eager. This can also work to your benefit when it comes to price negotiations and other criteria for filming. 

At Ovation Square, we are one of the top photoshoot rental spaces in Los Angeles. We have a team of event planning experts that work alongside us and would be more than happy to help you scout your next filming location.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long in advance should we book scouting a location?
A: That completely depends on your project’s timeline and the availability of the location. You can reach out to the location manager to understand their timeline and availability for shooting.

Q: How do I know if I need certain permits to film at a location?
A: More often than not, the location manager will know those details, however, you can always look it up through the city as well to make sure you’re covering all your tracks.

Q: If a location doesn’t have certain things I need or equipment, but the location is right, what should I do?
A: This is where you would want to turn to third-party vendors to rent additional resources you may need for the shoot.