Your Ultimate Location Scouting Checklist: A Pro’s Guide to Seamless Photo and Video Production

Why Location Matters More Than You Think
In professional video and photography production, your location isn’t just a backdrop—it’s a critical storytelling asset. A well-scouted location enhances brand perception, improves production efficiency, and significantly elevates the overall quality of your content. Whether you’re planning a corporate video, testimonial series, branding campaign, or high-end product shoot, selecting the right environment is just as important as selecting the right gear.

At St Louis Locations, we know that success starts long before the cameras roll. In this guide, we’ll walk you through a proven, comprehensive checklist for location scouting that ensures you get the most out of your next photo or video shoot.

1. Understand the Purpose and Creative Vision
Before visiting any site, clarify the production’s goals:

Is it for a corporate campaign, lifestyle shoot, testimonial, or commercial spot?

What mood and tone does the creative call for—modern and minimal, classic and refined, gritty and urban?

Will your talent or products feel authentic in this environment?

Aligning your visual goals with your location is foundational to success.

2. Scout for Light and Sound Quality
Professionals know that location lighting and audio conditions make or break production:

Natural Light: Check how light moves through the space throughout the day. Are there harsh shadows or beautifully diffused windows?

Artificial Light: Are there fluorescent overheads that may flicker on video or cast unflattering color temperatures?

Ambient Sound: Are you near highways, HVAC systems, or other sources of background noise that could interfere with interviews or voiceovers?

Pro tip: Always bring a sound recorder to test ambient noise levels.

3. Evaluate Accessibility and Logistics
You may love the visual aesthetic of a location—but is it practical?

Is there ample parking for crew and clients?

Will you need permits, or does the space require insurance?

Are there load-in/load-out paths for heavy equipment, lighting kits, grip gear, or props?

Are power sources accessible and adequate?

At St Louis Locations, we’ve learned that logistical oversight is one of the most common—and costly—production pitfalls. Don’t let a great space become a headache.

4. Assess Control of the Environment
How much control do you have over the surroundings?

Can you modify lighting or block natural light?

Will you be interrupted by foot traffic or neighboring businesses?

Can you bring in props, set design elements, or staging equipment?

Are there backup indoor options in case of bad weather?

Productions benefit from locations that allow full creative control over sound, lighting, and visual elements.

5. Check for Visual Compatibility and Continuity
For multi-day shoots or campaigns requiring multiple setups:

Are there enough distinct areas within the location for varied looks?

Will it match other locations if needed for continuity?

Does the space require set dressing or branding overlays?

From boardrooms to industrial rooftops, our location library at St Louis Locations includes hundreds of versatile options curated for professional content creation.

6. Factor in Crew and Talent Needs
Production days are long, and comfort affects performance:

Are there restrooms and green room areas?

Is there space for hair, makeup, wardrobe changes?

Can catering or craft services be set up on-site?

Are there HVAC and heating accommodations?

Taking care of your crew and talent supports smoother, more productive shoot days.

7. Take Comprehensive Reference Photos and Notes
During each scout, capture wide shots, medium shots, and close-ups of each scene. Also, document:

Time of day and lighting conditions

Noise levels

Directional orientation (sun path)

Power outlets and ceiling height

Any limitations or quirks

This data becomes essential during pre-production planning.

8. Plan for Contingencies
No matter how well you plan, variables like weather, noise, and scheduling changes happen. A strong location scout includes:

Backup date options

Indoor alternatives if your primary spot is outdoors

Nearby locations that visually match your creative

Our team at St Louis Locations often scouts and secures multiple site options to mitigate last-minute surprises.

The St Louis Locations Advantage
At St Louis Locations, we bring more than 40 years of production experience to every shoot. Our comprehensive location scouting services include:

A curated, searchable database of homes, businesses, restaurants, schools, and industrial spaces

Permit assistance and city service coordination

Custom map creation and logistics planning

Location photography and video references for client approvals

We are a full-service professional commercial photography and video production company, offering everything from studio and location shoots to post-production editing and licensed drone operation. Our team uses the latest AI-powered tools to streamline your workflow, while our private studio lighting and set-ready space can transform any concept into reality.

Whether you need a sleek corporate setting, an engaging outdoor environment, or a moody industrial look, St Louis Locations is your trusted partner for successful image acquisition. Our equipment, crew expertise, and logistical know-how ensure every project runs on time, on budget, and beyond expectations.

Let us help you scout smarter—and produce better.

Contact St Louis Locations today to discuss your next project, and discover how our deep location knowledge, creative insight, and technical precision can make your brand story come alive.

Mike Haller
4501 Mattis Road
St. Louis, MO 63128
stlouislocations@gmail.com
Studio 314-892-1233
Cell 314-913-5626