What Does a Location Scout Do?
A video production as several moving parts and jobs that happen on and off set, with so many jobs it may be overwhelming to even know where to start on getting your production off the ground running.
Well have no fear, here at Aura Casting we’re breaking down the basics of video production in our “What Does a … Do?” answering all your questions on what people do on and off sets.
Today, we’re breaking down what a location scout does.
A location scout is a person who is in charge of finding the filming locations for commercials, films, television, music videos and theater shows. Theri core responsibilities are listed below.
Identifying locations.
After reading the script and meeting with the director(s), a location scout will research, discuss and discover potential locations that fit the vision of the director.
Budget Management.
When thinking of where to shoot, scouts also need to be considering the budget they have to work with. Making locations work within a budget is a learned skill that location scouts learn as they grow in their profession and are able to become creative when thinking of where to set a film.
Visiting Sites.
Scouts will spend lots of time physically visiting and scouting out different locations to evaluate the space.
Documenting Sites.
While doing a location evaluation, scouts are responsible for documenting the different spaces. Taking detailed notes, drawings, photographs and videos that they can share with the larger production team.
Negotiation.
Scouts typically are responsible, or will work with the producers, who negotiate filming clearances with the owners of the sites and will also obtain the needed permits for filming at this stage.
Logistics.
Logistics for a location scout include arranging parking spaces, crew access, power access, lodging and other details that involve getting to and from the space.
Ultimately, a location scout is a vital role in video production. They set the scene for the correct look, feel and aesthetic for the story to play out on.
Written by Lauren Ulveling
