Location scouts or managers play a vital role in the pre-production research of any film shoot. their works can either break or make your film project.
Who is a Location Scout?
Location scouts are the advance team of any film crew. They do all of the groundbreaking research and photography to abide to document a given location and the possibilities of filming in the said Location. Their job involves finding generally spectacular or interesting locations beforehand and to have a database of locations in case of requests. Location scouts also negotiate legal access to filming locations.
Why are location scouts important?
Location scouting is one of the most important jobs during any pre-production phase of filmmaking. Location managers and location scouts help find, research and secure film-friendly locations that are appropriate for each scene of your film. Their work helps to establish a schedule of shooting as well as identify the equipment, props, crew and additional support needed to prepare for filming based on the resources available at each location.
What are the responsibilities of a location scout?
Obtaining filming permits in a timely manner is a major responsibility of the location scouts, which is required if you are shooting a commercial project. In some cases, film permits are free while in others, fees are dependent upon the size of the crew, a number of vehicles, type of use intended, expected impact and more.
Location scouts are also responsible for adhering to any other legal restrictions or regulations that are issued by the jurisdiction in which they are filming. For example, if there will be filming using drones, the production company may be required to apply for a special permit to fly & film using a drone. The type of permit you need to get may also depend on where you intend to film.
In another example, if roads or highways must be shut down temporarily for filming, an application for temporary occupancy must be approved by local transportation departments.
