Filming on location can give your video a sense of place that a studio cannot match. It also brings more things that can go wrong: weather, noise, access, lighting and members of the public. Good preparation turns a stressful day into a productive one.
Before the shoot
- Visit the location. Check it at the same time of day you plan to film, so you see the real light and noise.
- Confirm permission. Make sure you have agreement from the owner or relevant authority, and check whether any permits are needed.
- Check power and access. Find out where you can plug in, park, unload and store equipment.
- Plan for weather. Have a backup plan or backup date for outdoor scenes.
- Arrange releases. Prepare consent forms for anyone who will appear on camera.
Listen as well as look
Sound is often the biggest challenge on location. Traffic, air conditioning, music and nearby conversations can ruin a take. Ask whether noisy equipment can be switched off during filming, and bring suitable microphones for the environment. Record a little background sound on its own, as it can help the edit later.
On the day
Share a clear schedule with everyone involved, including contact numbers and arrival times. Start with the most important shots, in case time runs short. Keep a shot list and tick items off as you go.
Be considerate of the people around you. Keep walkways clear, respect the space and leave it as you found it. Good manners make it much easier to return in future.
Think about safety
Check for hazards such as cables across paths, uneven ground or working machinery. Make sure someone is responsible for safety and that everyone knows what to do if something goes wrong.
After the shoot
Back up footage as soon as possible, ideally in more than one place. Review key shots before leaving the location if you can, so you can reshoot anything that did not work.
Location filming rewards careful planning and a calm crew. If you are planning a shoot and would like some help, the Northpeak team would be glad to talk.
