drone scout

Location Scouting Using Drones

For businesses and organizations looking to create impactful visual content, the right location is crucial. Drones have become an indispensable tool for capturing unique perspectives and for ensuring that the chosen location meets all the necessary criteria for a successful production.

Why Use Drones for Location Scouting?
Aerial Perspective: Traditional scouting methods are limited to ground-level views, which can obscure important elements like terrain, layout, and surrounding features. Drones provide an aerial perspective, allowing for a comprehensive understanding of the location. This bird’s-eye view can reveal opportunities and challenges that might not be visible from the ground, enabling better planning and creative decision-making.

Efficiency and Speed: Scouting a location manually can be time-consuming and may require multiple visits. Drones can quickly survey large areas, providing detailed visuals in a fraction of the time. This efficiency not only speeds up the scouting process but also reduces costs, making it easier to evaluate multiple locations in a single day.

Access to Hard-to-Reach Areas: Some locations may be difficult to access on foot, whether due to natural barriers or restrictions. Drones can easily navigate these areas, capturing footage that would otherwise be impossible to obtain. This capability is particularly valuable for productions that require remote or challenging environments.

Real-Time Data Collection: Drones equipped with advanced imaging technology can provide real-time data and high-resolution imagery, allowing decision-makers to assess locations on the spot. This immediacy ensures that any potential issues can be identified and addressed before they impact the production schedule.

Creative Opportunities: Beyond practical benefits, drones offer creative opportunities that can enhance the visual storytelling of a project. From sweeping panoramic shots to dynamic movements through landscapes, drones add a cinematic quality that elevates the overall production value.

Applications of Drone Scouting in Commercial Productions
Drones are not just for finding the right location; they are also used to plan shots, visualize scenes, and even conduct rehearsals. Here are some specific applications:

Pre-Visualization: Drones can capture footage that helps visualize how a scene will look before the actual shoot. This pre-visualization is useful for planning camera angles, movements, and transitions, ensuring that the final product meets the creative vision.

Virtual Tours: For clients who cannot physically visit the location, drones can create virtual tours. These tours provide an immersive experience, allowing decision-makers to explore the location remotely and make informed choices.

Environmental Impact Assessments: Understanding the environmental conditions of a location is critical, especially for outdoor shoots. Drones can assess weather patterns, lighting conditions, and other environmental factors that might affect the production.

Safety Assessments: Safety is paramount in any production, and drones can be used to assess the safety of a location. By scouting potentially hazardous areas from the air, crews can plan accordingly and mitigate risks.

Conclusion
Location scouting is an essential step in the production process, and drones have revolutionized how it’s done. By providing aerial perspectives, increasing efficiency, and offering creative possibilities, drones are invaluable tools for any production company.

At St Louis Locations, we leverage the latest in drone technology to offer unparalleled location scouting services. As a full-service professional commercial photography and video production company, we have the right equipment and creative crew to ensure successful image acquisition. Our experience spans studio and location video and photography, editing, post-production, and licensed drone operations. We specialize in customizing productions for diverse media requirements, ensuring that your visual content not only meets but exceeds expectations.

Since 1982, we’ve worked with businesses, marketing firms, and agencies across the St. Louis area, providing tailored solutions that drive results. Whether you need a private studio setup, custom interview scenes, or specialized drone services, St Louis Locations has the expertise and resources to bring your vision to life. Let us help you create compelling visual content that resonates with your audience and achieves your goals.

stlouislocations@gmail.com

Cell 314-913-5626

Location Scouting: Finding the Ideal Setting for Your Brand’s Story.

When it comes to photography and video production, the importance of location cannot be overstated. The right setting can make or break your project, setting the stage for your brand’s story and enhancing its visual appeal. As a location scout for St. Louis Locations, I understand the crucial role that location scouting plays in the world of visual storytelling. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the art and science of location scouting and how it can help you find the ideal setting for your brand’s story.

The Art of Location Scouting
Location scouting is an art as much as it is a science. It requires a trained eye, creative vision, and an in-depth understanding of the storytelling process. Let’s dive into the key aspects of location scouting:

1. Understanding the Story
Before embarking on a location scout, it’s essential to have a deep understanding of the story you want to tell. What is the mood, message, and visual style of your project? This knowledge will guide your search for the perfect setting.

2. Research and Preparation
Effective location scouting begins with thorough research. Investigate potential locations based on your project’s requirements. This might include checking permits, regulations, and other legal considerations.

3. Visual Composition
Composition is a critical factor in location scouting. A visually appealing location should complement your project’s aesthetic. Consider elements like framing, lighting, and how the location interacts with your subject.

4. Seasonal Considerations
Different seasons can drastically alter a location’s appearance. Understanding how a location changes throughout the year is crucial. For instance, the lush greenery of summer may contrast starkly with the snowy landscapes of winter.

5. Access and Logistics
Is the location easily accessible? Can you transport equipment and crew without issues? Consider logistical concerns such as parking, proximity to amenities, and potential disruptions from nearby construction or events.

6. Safety and Permits
Ensuring the safety of your crew and complying with local regulations is paramount. Obtain the necessary permits and assess potential risks associated with the location.

7. Budget Constraints
While searching for the perfect location, keep your budget in mind. Some settings may require additional expenses, such as location fees or travel costs. Balancing the ideal location with budget constraints is a skillful task.

8. Location Scouting Tools
Modern technology has revolutionized location scouting. Various tools and software, such as GIS (Geographic Information Systems), can assist scouts in mapping and assessing locations effectively. Drone photography and 360-degree virtual tours are also invaluable resources.

The Science of Location Scouting
While the art of location scouting focuses on aesthetics and creativity, the science of scouting involves data-driven decision-making. Here are some key aspects of the scientific side of location scouting:

1. Geographical Considerations
Understanding the geography of the location is crucial. Factors like proximity to urban areas, natural landscapes, bodies of water, and elevation can significantly influence your choice.

2. Demographics
Who is your target audience, and where are they located? Knowing your audience can help you select locations that resonate with them.

3. Climate and Weather
Weather conditions can greatly impact your shoot. It’s essential to consider the local climate and its potential effects on your production.

4. Historical and Cultural Significance
Sometimes, the historical or cultural significance of a location can enhance the narrative of your project. Be sure to explore this aspect during scouting.

5. Environmental Impact
Consider the environmental impact of your shoot. Are there protected habitats or areas that should be preserved? Ensure that your production doesn’t harm the location’s ecosystem.

6. Property Rights
Respect property rights and ownership. Make sure you have the necessary permissions to film on private property, and adhere to any restrictions set by property owners.

7. Technical Considerations
Think about the technical requirements of your shoot. Does the location offer the necessary facilities and infrastructure, such as electricity and internet connectivity, to support your production?

The Role of a Location Scout
A location scout acts as the bridge between your creative vision and the practical requirements of your project. Here’s how a location scout can benefit your photography or video production:

1. Time and Resource Efficiency
A skilled location scout can save you time and resources by finding the right location quickly and efficiently. They have the expertise to filter out unsuitable options and present you with top choices.

2. Problem Solving
If challenges arise during scouting, such as legal issues or logistical complications, a location scout can navigate these obstacles effectively, ensuring your project stays on track.

3. Creativity and Vision
Location scouts possess a creative eye and can help you visualize how a location can fit into your project’s narrative. They can suggest unique settings that you might not have considered.

4. Risk Management
Location scouts have experience in assessing and mitigating risks associated with a particular location. They can identify potential issues and recommend solutions to keep your production safe and on schedule.

5. Cost Savings
An experienced location scout can negotiate deals and secure permits, potentially saving you money and reducing budget overruns.

St. Louis Locations: Your Trusted Partner in Location Scouting
St. Louis Locations is a full-service video and photography production company based in St. Louis. With a deep understanding of the art and science of location scouting, we can accommodate all your location scouting requirements. Our team of experts is well-versed in every aspect of location scouting and management for your production.

Here’s how St. Louis Locations can help you:

Expertise: We have a team of seasoned location scouts with years of experience. We understand the nuances of storytelling and can find locations that perfectly align with your vision.

Local Knowledge: As a St. Louis-based company, we have an in-depth understanding of the local area and its diverse landscapes. We know where to find the hidden gems that will make your project stand out.

Regulatory Compliance: We are well-versed in the legal and regulatory aspects of location scouting. We ensure all necessary permits and permissions are obtained, so your production proceeds without hiccups.

Cost Efficiency: Our team has a knack for finding cost-effective locations without compromising quality. We’ll make the most of your budget.

Safety: Your safety and the safety of your crew are paramount. We conduct thorough risk assessments and ensure that your production is conducted in a secure environment.

Creative Vision: We’re not just about logistics; we also bring a creative touch to location scouting. We understand how a location can enhance your story and make it visually compelling.

As a creative location scout, St. Louis Locations has worked with many businesses of all types and sizes in the St. Louis area. We are experts at finding just the right location for your shooting projects.

If you’re in need of a professional location scout, look no further than St. Louis Locations. Contact us today, and let’s embark on a journey to find the ideal setting for your brand’s story. Your project’s success starts with the perfect location, and we’re here to make it happen.

Remember, your location is not just a backdrop; it’s an integral part of your brand’s narrative. With St. Louis Locations, you can ensure that your story is set in the most captivating and fitting environment, making your photography and video projects truly exceptional.

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

Live Streaming Like a Pro: Best Practices for Video Production Success

As a seasoned location scout, video producer, and photographer at St. Louis Location Scout, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing the transformative impact of live streaming on business endeavors. In this article, we’ll delve into the best practices for achieving video production success when it comes to live streaming.

Planning and Pre Production

Behind every successful live stream lies a well-thought-out plan. Start by defining your objectives for the live stream. Are you looking to educate, entertain, or inform your audience? Understanding your goals will guide the entire production process.

Once your goals are set, create a detailed script or outline for the live stream. This will ensure a smooth and coherent flow of content, reducing the chances of awkward pauses or confusion. Collaborate with your team to assign roles and responsibilities, including hosts, presenters, and technical support.

 

Choosing the Right Location

As experts in location scouting, we understand the pivotal role a setting plays in conveying your message. The right location can enhance the ambiance and captivate your audience. Consider factors such as the backdrop, lighting conditions, and acoustics. Whether you’re streaming from a picturesque outdoor setting, a dynamic urban environment, or a controlled indoor space, the location should align with your brand and content.

Camera and Equipment Setup

Investing in quality camera equipment is a non-negotiable aspect of professional live streaming. High-definition cameras, tripods, and stabilizers contribute to a polished and visually appealing presentation. Position your camera at eye level to establish a personal connection with your viewers. Test your equipment well in advance to troubleshoot any technical issues.

Lighting and Audio Considerations

Lighting can make or break your live stream’s visual quality. Natural light is an excellent option, but if indoors, opt for soft and diffused lighting sources to avoid harsh shadows. Additionally, prioritize audio clarity by using external microphones and minimizing background noise. A poor audio experience can lead to viewer disengagement, so invest in professional audio equipment.

Engaging Content Creation

Compelling content is at the heart of a successful live stream. Incorporate a mix of storytelling, visuals, and data to maintain audience interest. Integrate interactive elements such as polls, Q&A sessions, and live chats to encourage participation. A well-crafted narrative will keep viewers hooked from start to finish.

Interactive Audience Engagement

Engagement is a two-way street. Leverage the live nature of the stream to interact with your audience in real-time. Respond to comments, answer questions, and acknowledge viewers by name. This fosters a sense of community and builds a loyal following. Remember, the more engaged your audience is, the longer they’ll stay tuned in.

Post-Production and Optimization

Once the live stream concludes, the work is far from over. Save the recording for future use and consider repurposing it into bite-sized clips for social media or promotional purposes. Review viewer analytics to gain insights into viewer demographics, engagement rates, and drop-off points. Use this data to refine your future live streams and tailor your content to your audience’s preferences.

St. Louis Location Scout: Your Full-Service Production Partner

At St. Louis Location Scout, we take pride in being your trusted partner for all your business location production needs. With a solid foundation in location scouting, video production, and photography, we are equipped to handle the entire spectrum of multimedia creations. Based in St. Louis, we specialize in curating stunning visual backdrops and ensuring seamless video production experiences.

As professional video producers, St. Louis Location Scout has scouted and helped produce hundreds of video projects for all types of large and small businesses and organizations in the St. Louis region. Our expertise spans across industries, enabling us to deliver tailored solutions that align with your brand identity and communication objectives.

Whether you’re planning a live stream, a commercial shoot, or a corporate video, our team at St. Louis Location Scout is dedicated to turning your vision into reality. We bring a keen eye for detail, technical proficiency, and creative flair to every project we undertake. Let us be your partner in bringing your ideas to life and achieving video production success.

To embark on a journey of compelling visuals and captivating storytelling, get in touch with us today. Together, we’ll elevate your video production endeavors to new heights.

Cell 314-913-5626  stlouislocations@gmail.com

Mastering Location Scouting for Video Production: Tips, Techniques & Tools to Make Your Shoot a Success.

Location scouting for video production is often an overlooked step in the production process. However, masterful location scouting can make the difference between an average and extraordinary video production. Finding the right location for your next productionIt’s the key to creating visually compelling stories and can also save a lot of time and money when done correctly. Whether you’re a seasoned video producer or just getting started, there are some key tips, techniques, and tools that you can use to make your next shoot a success. From understanding the basics of location scouting and legal considerations to utilizing the latest technologies to save time and money, mastering the art of location scouting can help you create the perfect video production.

Understanding the Basics of Location Scouting

Location scouting is the process of identifying and securing potential shooting locations before the start of a production. This includes everything from scouting for the right look, to finding the most convenient and cost-effective locations, to securing permission to use those locations. The location scout’s role is to find the best possible locations for your production to meet your story’s narrative and production requirements. They do this by collaborating with various departments and stakeholders to find the best possible locations, and then communicating logistics, requirements, and costs back to those stakeholders. The most important thing to remember about location scouting is that it’s not just about finding a pretty place. Successful location scouting requires the location scout to understand the story, the characters, and their motivations, and then find places where those stories can be told in an authentic and compelling way.

Legal Considerations for Location Scouting

Before you go on a location scout, make sure you understand the legal considerations at each location. Even if you’re using a public space, there may be rules and regulations that you need to follow. While shooting on public property may be free, you may need a permit. Also, you may need to get permission from the city, county, or state government. Getting the necessary permissions will help ensure that you stay on the right side of the law. It’s also important that you get permission from the owner of any private property that you intend to shoot on. Failure to secure the proper permissions could result in fines, a shut-down, or even a lawsuit, so always check with the owner and get the necessary legal documents signed before beginning your shoot.

Utilizing the Latest Technologies for Location Scouting

The best location scouts don’t just look for great places to shoot. They also keep their ear on the ground for new and exciting locations. Location scouts who are constantly scanning the web and social media for new places to shoot are sure to find exciting and fresh locations for their shoots. This can help your production stand out from the crowd and create a more compelling story. It can also save a lot of time and money because you won’t be wasting time scouting places that won’t work for your story. The internet is bursting with location-sharing platforms that allow you to find new, exciting locations. Some of the most popular platforms include Instagram, Pinterest, and TripAdvisor. However, there are also more niche-oriented tools like Whim, which is dedicated to helping filmmakers find new, visually compelling locations. Whim features a built-in visual search engine that allows you to search millions of photos for new and exciting locations. It also features a built-in communication tool that allows you to connect with the host of the location, check their availability, and make arrangements to book the space.

Tips for Finding the Best Locations

Before you start scouting for locations, create a logline for your shoot. This will help you understand the narrative of your shoot and will help you find the right locations. Once you have your logline, use these tips to find the best locations. – Start with a storyboard. A storyboard will help you visualize the shots you want and will help you find locations that can help you execute your story. – Look for interesting places that tell a story. You want to find places with a lot of character that can help you tell your story in an authentic way. – Be flexible with your search. While you want to find a few places that can help you tell your story, it’s also important to cast a wide net. Being flexible will help you find new and exciting locations that you may have otherwise missed. – Think about your crew. You also need to think about your crew when searching for locations. Some locations may be too difficult for your crew to shoot in. And, some places may be too close to other productions to make shooting there possible.

Advice on Working with Location Managers

A location manager is typically hired by production companies to scout and secure filming locations on behalf of production crews. A location manager should understand the story of the shoot and help choose the best location(s) that will help tell the story in an authentic way. Having someone on your team who knows how to navigate the legal considerations, negotiate with property owners, and represent your interests can be invaluable. If you find a location that you want to shoot at but don’t have a location manager, do your research and be sure to let the owners know that you’re willing to pay them for their time and property. When you’re looking for a location manager, make sure you’re working with someone who understands the needs of video production. Ideally, you want someone who has a lot of experience with video production in the area you’re shooting in. This will help ensure that the location manager knows the rules and regulations for shooting in the area and can help guide you as you secure locations for your shoot.

Creating the Perfect Storyboard for Your Shoot

Once you have found the perfect locations for your shoot, it’s time to create the perfect storyboard for your shoot. This is the single most important tool that you can use to help you visualize your shoot, keep the shoot on schedule, and ensure that you capture the shots that you need. A storyboard is like a map of your shoot that shows the order in which you will shoot the different scenes. It also details how each scene will transition into the next one. You can create a storyboard using a wide variety of tools. From old-fashioned pen and paper to digital storyboard software, there are dozens of different tools that will help you create the perfect visual representation of your film. One thing is important, however. You want to use the storyboard to help you visualize the shots that you need to capture, not necessarily the order in which you will capture them. This is important because it helps you prioritize the shots you need to capture, which will help you keep your shoot on schedule.

Best Practices for Working with Locations

While the best practices for working with specific locations will vary from shoot-to-shoot, there are some best practices that apply to almost every shoot. – Always communicate with the owners of each location before you start shooting. Let them know when you will be there, how long you expect to be there, and what you plan to do there. – Be respectful of each location. You are using these locations by their permission, so make sure you treat them as you would your own house. – Stay on schedule. A production is like hosting a party. The longer the party goes on, the more the guests will want to leave. Keeping your production on schedule, including the location shoots, will help ensure that it ends as soon as possible.

Location Scouts | Video Production Crews

Our primary mission and passion is to tell our clients’ stories, and help share their message with video. We provide corporate, event, employee training, music, fashion, web, and TV video production to do just that. We offer professional High Definition (HD) video production scouting and crewing services with high quality craftsmanship in all phases of production, including concept creation, scripts and storyboards, talent and location scouting, on-location or in studio production, digital editing, graphic design and animation, and media methods and distribution strategies.

St Louis Advertising Location Scouts – AB InBev Hardees

The initial location scout is one of the best times in the pre-production schedule.  In the commercial world, by the time I am on board as the cinematographer, chances are the production team will have some strong contenders for possible locations.

During the initial location scout on this job it was just the director and I and we made our way around the city in one day checking out the various locations the production team had lined up for review.

There are a few important things to take into consideration when on an initial location scout.  The most obvious is you want your locations to match (as best they can) the brief that the director created and the mood he or she is after.  Besides the overall look you need to also be thinking about the logistics of the location.

Location Scout preparing for a commercial production on the streets of St Louis

A good location scout for film will make your job easy and provide you with multiple options for each location.

It’s your job to review the locations, scope it out in person, and decide the best location for your budget and production needs.

Mike Haller
314-913-5626
stlouislocations@gmail.com

St Louis Location Scout and Manger

St Louis location scout and location manager.

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.

St Louis Location Sout

Mike Haller
314-913-5626
stlouislocations@gmail.com

St Louis Location Scout and Manager

Our scouting team is group of experienced veterans dedicated to servicing all production professionals shooting in the St Louis and Midwest region.

The Layover Movie – Drone Flight Crew and Director William H Macy

Our services have been utilized by directors, producers, still photographers, production companies, other location scouts, film festivals & exceptional people interested in the unique visuals and history of St Louis. 

Whether you are producing an elite editorial shoot or a studio feature film, we understand your needs and react quickly, appropriately and precisely.

Alexandra Daddario and Kate Upton. St Louis drone video filming with tethered balloon and the Arch


Our goal is to constantly scout for new and unique location options providing a consistently evolving range of fresh and exciting location choices.
Mike Haller
314-892-1233
stlouislocations@gmail.com
9910 Claywood Court
St. Louis, MO 63126

Missouri Location Scout for Photography, Video and Film Productions

St Louis Locations provides the most comprehensive location selection in Missouri and specifically the St Louis region, from factories to family rooms to farms.

Our goal is to make your dream location a reality, no fail, every time. If you need a specific look for a photo or film shoot, chances are we have it in our files. If we don’t have it, we’ll find it — and have fun doing it. We want to make this easy as possible for you.

Mike Haller
314-892-1233
stlouislocations@gmail.com
9910 Claywood Court
St. Louis, MO 63126

Missouri and Midwest Location Scouts

Working with local and international photographers, art directors and producers, our team has developed a reputation as one of the best location services in the Midwest. With a client list ranging from Nestle Purina to A-B InBev to hundreds of other firms. St. Louis Locations has built and organized an extensive location library since we began in 1982.

The team of highly skilled photographers and videographers, known for their fine art and cinematography independently, bring an exceptionally high level of vision, craft and creativity to all of their scouting assignments.

314-892-1233
Mike Haller
4501 Mattis Road 63128
St Louis Photographer
St Louis, Missouri, USA | Photography services
stlouislocations@gmail.com