Choosing and securing where you film.
WHAT TO ASSESS AT A LOCATION
Light, at the time you will actually shoot Sound, including intermittent noise Power availability Space for equipment and people Access and parking Whether permission is needed
WHY THE TIME OF DAY MATTERS
Light and noise differ completely across a day, and scouting at the wrong time misleads.
WHAT TO RECORD WHILE SCOUTING
Photographs from intended positions Notes on power points Contact details for whoever controls access
WHAT PERMISSION IS REQUIRED FOR
Private property, always Many public spaces, for commercial filming Anywhere with security or restrictions
WHAT TO OBTAIN
Written permission, naming the date, activity and any conditions.
WHY WRITTEN
Verbal permission is denied later, and being stopped mid-shoot is expensive.
WHAT TO ASK ABOUT
Noise restrictions Time limits Whether other activity will occur Whether equipment may be left
WHAT TO CONSIDER LOCALLY
Community relations, which matter more than formal permission in many areas Informal fees that may be requested Security for equipment in public
WHAT TO ARRANGE
Someone from the area who can smooth access.
WHAT TO PLAN
An alternative location.
