26 July 2006

Keeping Friendly Locations Friendly

A major problem for filmmakers is finding a location that welcomes them and invites them back for future shoots.  We know that, by the law of averages, people won’t always welcome you with open arms, but you can make that pendulum swing in your direction with a few simple rules.

First and foremost, let everyone who has a business or residence that will be affected by your production know you are coming.  Let them know that you appreciate their cooperation, but also that you will do whatever is necessary to make the shoot as unobtrusive as possible, and maybe even fun.  Let them know that, even though you need them to move their vehicle, you won’t prevent them from going to work or receiving deliveries.  If there will be night shoots with lights shining into their bedrooms, some foreknowledge will give them an opportunity to block that light before going to bed instead of being awakened at 3:00 AM and shouting at you from their window.

The Film Office has compiled a “Code of Conduct” with some suggestions for location shooting, and also some hard-and-fast rules to help all production, large and small, to keep friendly locations friendly.  This can be found in the Film Office section our production guide, or call and we’ll be glad to put a copy in the mail.

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