St Louis Location Scout and Manger
The primary duty of a location scout is to find an environment best suited for a particular scene, or the entire movie, TV show, or commercial. We do that very well indeed. The search begins with the script, which indicates what kind of location is needed. The scouting of potential sites usually begins with a file search, leading to physical visits to actual sites, whether exterior or interior. As the location scout, we are responsible for contacting property owners to gain permission to scout their property; permission also must be obtained from the appropriate authorities to prevent the possibility of trespassing or other legal liabilities that may occur. As Location scouts, we often drive to sites and may scout locations with others. Once at a site, we take descriptive notes and detailed photos and video that shows how the spot meets the aesthetic goals of the script, as well as noting details about the logistical implications of the site. The more details we can provide about a site to the director and producers, the better; a complete picture of what to expect during the shoot is expected. Ambient lighting conditions, ambient sound, parking areas for the crew, sources of electricity, and access to the site are just some of the most crucial details that should be scouted. Finally, once the location is chosen, the legal issues have been worked out, and the crew descends on the site, location scouts photograph the site to ensure that any “dressing” of the location, whether in the form of props and furniture or actual structural changes, can be easily undone and the location returned to its original condition once filming is complete.
Mike Haller
314-913-5626
stlouislocations@gmail.com