How do you overcome location challenges when filming?

1 Scout the location

Before you start filming, you need to scout the location and gather as much information as possible. You should visit the site at different times of the day and check the lighting, sound, weather, and accessibility conditions. You should also research the history, culture, and legal aspects of the location and obtain any necessary permits, permissions, or insurance. Scouting the location will help you avoid unpleasant surprises, save time and money, and enhance your storytelling.

2 Pack smart

When filming on location, you need to pack smart and bring only the essential equipment and crew. You should consider the size, weight, and durability of your gear and how it will fit in your transportation and storage options. You should also pack extra batteries, memory cards, cables, and tools for backup and repair. Packing smart will help you travel light, avoid damage or loss, and be ready for any situation.

3 Be flexible

Filming on location can be unpredictable and challenging, so you need to be flexible and adaptable. You should expect to face some difficulties, such as changing weather, noisy crowds, technical glitches, or security issues. You should also be open to improvising, modifying, or cutting some scenes if necessary. Being flexible will help you cope with stress, solve problems, and capture the best shots.

4 Communicate well

When filming on location, you need to communicate well with your crew, cast, and local contacts. You should establish clear roles, responsibilities, and expectations for everyone involved and keep them updated on any changes or issues. You should also respect the culture, language, and customs of the place and interact with the locals politely and professionally. Communicating well will help you build trust, collaboration, and goodwill.

5 Protect the location

When filming on location, you need to protect the location and leave it as you found it. You should follow the environmental, ethical, and safety guidelines of the place and avoid any damage, littering, or disturbance. You should also acknowledge and credit the location and its owners or authorities in your film and thank them for their cooperation. Protecting the location will help you preserve its beauty, integrity, and value.

6 Learn from the location

When filming on location, you need to learn from the location and use it as a source of inspiration and education. You should observe and appreciate the unique features, stories, and emotions of the place and incorporate them into your film. You should also reflect on your own experience and how it has influenced your creative process and perspective. Learning from the location will help you enrich your film, your audience, and yourself.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?