Features. Docs. Branded content. Web series. Corporate films. All require unique settings that help tell the stories. We will break down the goals, process and deliverables required to effectively scout locations. With this in hand, students will be better prepared to make the decisions that lead to a more efficient production in the field and better footage in the can.
Originally presented at Post | Production World 2015 at NABShow.
3. Production
PHOTOGRAPHY
• Smaller Production
• Less People
• Shorter Window
• Less Complex Needs
CINEMATOGRAPHY
• Larger Production
• More People
• Larger Window
• More Complex Needs
4. • Understand production’s aesthetic
• Assemble example photos
• Digital (PDF) is most flexible
• Get sign off from lead creative
Look Book
5. What does the production require?
Logistics
• Power
• Water
• Bathrooms
• Food
• Clearance
• Safety
• Shelter
• Travel
• Aesthetic
• Access
• Props
• Budget
6. • Local Film Offices
• Photo Location Apps (e.g. Photo Pills)
• Photo Communities (e.g. Flickr, 500px)
• Personal & Professional Network
Resources
13. • Map Your Route(s) in Google Maps
• Note Proximity to:
• Food, Fuel, Shelter, Shopping
• Call ahead to establish POC
• Can you eliminate in pre-scout?
Pre-Scout
16. • Is it a “Look Book” match?
• If not, is it close?
• Could it “get there”? At what cost?
• Is it something surprising? New?
Aesthetic
17. • Scout at same TOD as intended shoot
• Note direction and quality of light
• Note location of windows
• Note level of ambient sound
• Note traffic patterns (people & vehicles)
Time Of Day
18. • On-Site Power?
• Outlet locations for all spaces
• Normal & Available System Load
• Location of Breaker Box
• OK to use a generator?
Power
19. • Lodging Proximity (e.g. Hotels, AirBnB)
• Shelter from environment
• Rain or extreme weather
• Camera & other setup space
Shelter
20. • Hours of Access
• Be sure to include setup & strike
• Equipment Storage
• Onsite Security
• Vehicle Parking
Access
21. • Craft Services Ready?
• Kitchen? Refrigerator? Tables?
• Proximity to restaurants or food truck?
• Proximity to grocery stores?
Food
22. • Access to Restrooms
• Available Seating
• Green Room or private changing space
• Space for private conversation
Comfort
23. • Proximity to other locations
• Proximity to fuel
• If extremely remote …
… does aesthetic merit added cost?
… does location present safety risk?
Travel
24. • Confirm following of Point of Contact
• Owner or Authorized Rep?
• Reliable Contact Information
• Primary, Secondary and Tertiary
• Committed to production’s success?
POC
25. • Get the following in writing:
• Cost (if any), include non-$ payment
• Location, brand and staff clearances
• Dates & times of access
• Access allowances & restrictions
Legal
28. • Script (if film)
• Look Book
• Storyboard
• Camera Setups
Pre-Vis
29. Ask lead creative for deliverable reqs
• Image size, resolution & format
• Aspect ratio (4:3, 16:9, anamorphic)
• Alternate angles
• Sun & TOD information
Photo
30. Done well, video can be a better reference
• Captures more info, more quickly
• Stills can be captured from video
• With 360/VR, can be immersive
Video
32. • Only ask if the location has potential
• Payment Options
• Free (never hurts to ask)
• Promotional consideration
• In-Kind (e.g. photo/video license)
• Straight Dollars
COST
33. • Get the following in writing:
• Cost (if any), include non-$ payment
• Location, brand and staff clearances
• Dates & times of access
• Access allowances & restrictions
Legal
35. CONTENT
• Power
• Water
• Bathrooms
• Food
• Clearance
• Safety
• Shelter
• Travel
• Aesthetic
• Access
• Props
• Budget
What did the production require?
36. CONTENT
For each location, provide:
• Hero photo + alternative angles
• Check list based on provide reqs
• Description for each as needed
• Budget details
• Contact information
41. Final Thoughts
• Be professional
• Demonstrate your skill/eye
• But, recognize that:
• You are not the artist, DP or director
• You were hired to provide information