Executive Portraits

Location Permits? What You Need to Know Before You Shoot

When planning a professional photography or video production, one of the most critical steps is securing the right location permits. Whether you’re shooting in a public park, a historic site, or a private property, having the appropriate permits in place ensures a smooth and legal production process. Failure to obtain the necessary permits can result in fines, disruptions, or even legal action that could jeopardize your project. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what you need to know about location permits before you start your shoot.

Understanding the Importance of Location Permits

A location permit is a formal authorization that grants permission to film or photograph in a specific area. These permits are typically required by local government agencies, property owners, or regulatory bodies, depending on the location and type of production. They help regulate productions to ensure public safety, prevent disruptions, and protect property rights.

Without the necessary permits, your crew may be asked to leave mid-shoot, or worse, your company could face legal consequences that impact future projects. Whether you’re filming a commercial, a corporate video, or a marketing campaign, understanding permit requirements is essential for a seamless production.

When Do You Need a Permit?

Not all locations require a permit, but here are some common scenarios where permits are necessary:

Public Spaces: Parks, sidewalks, city streets, and government-owned properties often require official permission.

Private Property: Even if you have a relationship with a business owner, securing a formal agreement or contract is advisable.

Drone Filming: The FAA requires special authorization for commercial drone operations, especially in restricted airspace or near populated areas.

Large Crew or Equipment Setup: If your production involves large setups, tripods on sidewalks, or extensive lighting rigs, a permit may be required.

Special Effects or Public Interference: If your shoot involves pyrotechnics, smoke, loud noises, or street closures, additional permits and safety measures are often mandated.

Steps to Obtain a Location Permit

Research Local Regulations: Different cities, counties, and states have unique permitting processes. Contact the local film commission, city hall, or parks department for specific requirements.

Plan Ahead: Permit approvals can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks. Start early to avoid delays.

Submit an Application: Most applications require details such as shoot dates, crew size, equipment list, and potential disruptions (e.g., street closures).

Secure Liability Insurance: Many permit offices require proof of insurance to cover potential damages or accidents during the shoot.

Pay Permit Fees: Costs vary based on location, production size, and the type of shoot. Some cities charge a nominal fee, while others require substantial payments for high-impact productions.

Coordinate with Local Authorities: If your production involves street closures or special effects, you may need additional approvals from police, fire departments, or local officials.

Obtain Property Owner Permission: If shooting on private property, secure a signed location release form from the owner or management.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Last-Minute Permit Issues: Always apply for permits well in advance and confirm approvals before setting a shoot date.

Unexpected Fees or Insurance Requirements: Budget for extra costs and have a flexible contingency plan.

Permit Denials: If a location is unavailable, consider alternative locations or adjust your creative vision to work within permitted areas.

How St Louis Locations Can Help

At St Louis Locations, we specialize in securing the right locations and permits for your commercial photography and video production needs. As a full-service professional photography and video production company, we have the right equipment and creative crew service experience to ensure successful image acquisition.

We offer full-service studio and location video and photography, editing, post-production, and licensed drone pilots to accommodate diverse media requirements. Our expertise in repurposing photography and video branding ensures your content gains maximum traction. Our team is well-versed in handling all file types, media styles, and accompanying software, making us the perfect partner for your next project.

For small productions and interview scenes, our private studio lighting and visual setup provide the ideal controlled environment. Our large studio space allows for creative set designs with props, while our custom interview studio setups ensure the highest quality production. Need sound and camera operators? We’ve got you covered. Looking for indoor drone footage? We can fly our specialized drones indoors for unique perspectives.

Since 1982, St Louis Locations has been the trusted partner for businesses, marketing firms, and creative agencies in the St. Louis area, providing top-tier marketing photography and video production services. Let us take care of the location details so you can focus on creating compelling visual content. Contact us today to discuss your next project!

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

Checklist for Finding Ideal Locations for Your Marketing Videos

When planning a marketing video, the location plays a crucial role in the production’s overall effectiveness. Whether you’re shooting a corporate video, testimonial, or branded content, the right location sets the tone and elevates the quality of your visual storytelling. Deciding on the ideal location requires careful consideration of various factors that contribute to the message you wish to convey.

In this blog post, we’ll break down a checklist to help you find the perfect location for your next marketing video.

1. Identify the Purpose of Your Video
Before selecting a location, understand the objective of the video. Are you showcasing a product or service? Or are you telling a customer success story or building a company’s brand? Knowing the purpose of your video will help you select a location that complements the message.

For instance:

A product demo might require a clean, professional, and neutral environment.
A customer testimonial may benefit from a location that feels warm and personal.
An action-packed company profile may need an industrial setting to showcase the dynamic work environment.
2. Consider the Space’s Accessibility
Location accessibility is often overlooked but is crucial for smooth production. Ensure that the location is easy to access for your crew, talent, and equipment. Consider parking, loading zones for equipment, and any permits or permissions needed for filming.

It’s also worth checking for proximity to important amenities like catering or restrooms, especially for longer shoots.

3. Natural Light and Artificial Lighting Opportunities
Lighting can make or break your video. Depending on the mood you want to create, you might prefer natural light, or you may need to rely on studio lighting. When scouting locations, pay attention to the amount of natural light available and how it interacts with the space.

Additionally, assess if the location has sufficient space for your lighting setup and if it allows flexibility in adjusting lighting conditions. At St Louis Locations, we offer a private studio that’s designed to cater to a variety of lighting needs. We’ve also got the expertise to customize lighting setups for small productions and interview settings.

4. Background Noise and Acoustic Considerations
Consider the acoustics of your location. Unwanted background noise can be a major distraction and compromise your audio quality. Whether you’re shooting in a busy city environment or an industrial site, be mindful of potential noise issues. Test the sound before committing to the location to ensure the acoustics suit your production’s needs.

If you need a soundproof environment, St Louis Locations offers a custom-built studio where we have full control over noise and acoustics, providing an ideal space for video production.

5. Aesthetic and Brand Fit
Your location should reflect your brand’s identity and values. Whether you’re showcasing a modern, clean space or a more industrial environment, make sure it aligns with the look and feel of your brand.

Take into account:

The color palette of the space.
The presence of any distracting elements.
How the surroundings will enhance your visual style.
St Louis Locations specializes in customizing spaces to match your brand’s visual identity. Whether you need a high-end corporate look or a rustic, natural setting, we’ve got you covered.

6. Flexibility and Space for Custom Setups
Many corporate video productions, especially those involving interviews or dynamic product shots, require custom setups. Look for locations that offer flexibility in adjusting the space according to your needs. Can you bring in props, additional lighting, or modify the background to match your vision?

Our private studio at St Louis Locations offers the space and flexibility to design custom setups, perfect for small productions or interviews. We can incorporate props to round out your set, allowing your creative vision to come to life.

7. Indoor Drone Capabilities
Sometimes, the perfect shot requires a drone. Flying drones indoors requires specialized equipment and experience. Make sure the location allows for drone operations and offers enough space for safe flying. At St Louis Locations, we have the unique capability to fly specialized drones indoors, allowing for stunning aerial shots even in confined spaces.

8. Cost and Budget
Don’t forget to factor in the cost of your location. The more complex the setup, the higher the cost might be. Be sure to take into account the location rental fee, any permits required, and the cost of transportation for crew and equipment.

At St Louis Locations, we provide full-service video and photography production, handling all aspects of the process, including location scouting, permits, and more. We can work with you to find a location that fits within your budget while still achieving the desired production value.

Why Choose St Louis Locations for Your Video Production Needs?
As a full-service professional commercial photography and video production company, St Louis Locations has been providing exceptional location services since 1982. Our experienced crew is well-versed in all aspects of video production, from scouting locations to repurposing photography and video content for greater branding traction.

We offer:

Full-service studio and location video and photography.
Professional editing, post-production, and licensed drone pilots.
Customizable solutions for diverse media requirements.
Expertise in all file types, media styles, and software.
Whether you need a private interview setup, sound and camera operators, or specialized equipment, we’ve got everything to make your next video production perfect. Our private studio is designed for a range of productions, from small interviews to larger corporate shoots, and we have the ability to fly drones indoors for unique perspectives.

Let St Louis Locations help you find the ideal location and deliver a seamless, successful video production. Contact us today to get started!

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

Capture Every Moment: A Guide to Event Photography and Videography

In the realm of business and organizational communications, the significance of high-quality photography and videography cannot be overstated. Capturing moments at events—whether they are corporate functions, product launches, or community gatherings—can play a crucial role in storytelling, brand building, and audience engagement. As decision-makers in photography and video production, understanding the nuances of event coverage will empower you to make informed choices that elevate your brand’s visual narrative.

The Importance of Event Photography and Videography
Event photography and videography serve as powerful tools for documentation and promotion. They encapsulate the atmosphere, emotions, and interactions of your events, creating a visual archive that can be utilized across various platforms.

High-quality visuals are essential for:

Brand Visibility: Engaging images and videos enhance your brand’s presence on social media, websites, and marketing materials, increasing reach and engagement.

Audience Connection: Authentic visuals foster a sense of connection with your audience. They showcase the human side of your brand, promoting relatability and trust.

Event Promotion: Well-captured moments can be repurposed for future marketing campaigns, showcasing the success of past events and encouraging attendance at future gatherings.

Internal Communications: For corporate events, capturing key moments can be invaluable for internal newsletters and reports, fostering a sense of community and pride among employees.

Preparing for Event Coverage
Successful event photography and videography begin with thorough preparation. Here are some key steps to consider:

1. Define Your Objectives
Identify the purpose of the event and the specific moments you want to capture. Are you highlighting a product launch? Focusing on networking opportunities? Understanding your goals will guide your coverage approach.

2. Select the Right Team
Partnering with a skilled photography and videography team is crucial. Look for professionals who understand your vision and can adapt to the event’s dynamics. An experienced team will be able to capture moments discreetly and creatively.

3. Scout the Location
Conducting a location scout is essential for understanding the venue’s layout, lighting conditions, and potential backdrops for your shots. This step allows you to identify the best angles and plan for any challenges, such as lighting inconsistencies or crowded spaces.

4. Equipment Considerations
Ensure your team is equipped with the right gear for the event. High-quality cameras, lenses, drones for aerial shots, and proper lighting setups are essential for capturing every detail effectively. It’s also important to have backup equipment ready in case of technical issues.

Capturing the Event
During the event, flexibility and creativity are key. Here are some strategies for capturing memorable moments:

1. Candid Shots
Candid photography captures authentic emotions and interactions. Encourage your team to mingle with guests and capture unposed moments that reflect the event’s atmosphere.

2. Key Moments
Identify key moments in the event—such as speeches, awards, or special announcements—and ensure they are well-documented. These moments often hold the most significance and can be used in future marketing efforts.

3. Various Angles and Perspectives
Utilize different angles and perspectives to create a dynamic visual narrative. This can include wide shots that capture the overall atmosphere and close-ups that focus on individual expressions and details.

4. Post-Event Editing
Post-production plays a vital role in enhancing the final product. Professional editing ensures that the imagery and video reflect your brand’s quality standards. This includes color correction, sound editing, and incorporating graphics or branding elements.

Repurposing Content for Branding
One of the key advantages of event photography and videography is the ability to repurpose content across multiple platforms. Here’s how you can maximize the impact of your visuals:

Social Media: Create engaging posts and stories using event highlights to drive engagement and visibility.
Marketing Materials: Use high-quality images in brochures, websites, and newsletters to enhance your brand presence.
Internal Communication: Share event highlights with employees to foster a sense of belonging and pride in the company culture.
Why Choose St Louis Location Scout
At St Louis Location Scout, we understand the importance of capturing every moment that matters to your business. As a full-service professional commercial photography and video production company, we have been serving the St. Louis area since 1982. Our extensive experience equips us with the skills and knowledge to deliver exceptional results tailored to your unique needs.

Our team utilizes cutting-edge equipment and creative expertise to ensure successful image acquisition. From full-service studio and location video and photography to editing, post-production, and licensed drone services, we provide comprehensive support for your productions. Our specialized drones can even fly indoors, allowing us to capture stunning aerial shots that set your content apart.

With a private studio lighting and visual setup, we are well-equipped for small productions and interview scenes, ensuring every detail is perfect. Our studio is spacious enough to incorporate props, rounding out your set for a professional look.

At St Louis Location Scout, we specialize in customizing productions for diverse media requirements, ensuring your visuals resonate with your audience. Let us help you repurpose your photography and video branding to gain more traction and maximize your impact.

In conclusion, investing in professional event photography and videography is a strategic decision that can significantly enhance your brand’s visibility and connection with your audience. With St Louis Location Scout by your side, you can be confident that every moment will be captured perfectly, helping to tell your brand’s story for years to come.

stlouislocations@gmail.com
Studio 314-892-1233
Cell 314-913-5626

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

Finding the Right Locations for Your Interview and Testimonial Productions in St. Louis, Missouri

In the realm of commercial photography and video production, choosing the right location is paramount. Whether you’re shooting interviews, testimonials, or any other form of visual content, the backdrop plays a crucial role in conveying your message effectively. For businesses and organizations seeking to capture compelling narratives in St. Louis, Missouri, the task of finding the perfect locations can be both exciting and challenging.

Understanding Your Objectives

Before embarking on the search for locations, it’s essential to have a clear understanding of your project’s objectives. What message do you want to convey? Who is your target audience? Answering these questions will help guide your decision-making process when scouting for locations.

Factors to Consider

Several factors come into play when selecting locations for interview and testimonial productions:

1. Ambiance and Atmosphere

The ambiance and atmosphere of a location can significantly impact the mood and tone of your visuals. Whether you’re aiming for a professional corporate setting or a more casual and relaxed vibe, choose a location that aligns with your desired aesthetic.

2. Accessibility

Consider the accessibility of the location for your team and any participants involved in the production. Ensure that the chosen venue is easily reachable and accommodates any specific needs, such as wheelchair accessibility or parking facilities.

3. Acoustics

Sound quality is paramount in interview and testimonial productions. Avoid locations with excessive noise or poor acoustics that could interfere with recording clarity. Opt for spaces with minimal background noise and the option to control audio levels effectively.

4. Visual Appeal

The visual appeal of a location can enhance the overall quality of your production. Look for settings with interesting architectural features, natural lighting, or scenic views that complement the subject matter and add depth to your visuals.

5. Brand Alignment

Choose locations that resonate with your brand identity and values. The backdrop should reflect the ethos of your organization and resonate with your target audience, reinforcing your brand message effectively.

Popular Locations in St. Louis

St. Louis offers a diverse array of locations suitable for interview and testimonial productions:

  • Historic Landmarks: Iconic sites such as the Gateway Arch or Union Station provide visually stunning backdrops steeped in history and cultural significance.
  • Urban Landscapes: The vibrant streetscapes and architectural diversity of downtown St. Louis offer endless possibilities for capturing dynamic visuals.
  • Parks and Green Spaces: Lush parks and botanical gardens offer a serene backdrop for interviews, allowing for a natural and relaxed atmosphere.
  • Industrial Settings: The industrial charm of locations like the City Museum or the Delmar Loop adds a unique edge to your visuals, perfect for conveying a sense of creativity and innovation.

Partnering with St. Louis Locations

At St. Louis Locations, we understand the importance of finding the perfect setting for your interview and testimonial productions. With our extensive experience in commercial photography and video production, we offer:

  • Full-Service Studio and Location Options: From our private studio with customizable setups to outdoor locations tailored to your needs, we provide diverse options to suit your project requirements.
  • Expert Crew and Equipment: Our team of skilled professionals and state-of-the-art equipment ensure a seamless production process from start to finish.
  • Post-Production Services: We offer comprehensive editing and post-production services to enhance your visuals and bring your vision to life.
  • Licensed Drone Pilots: Capture stunning aerial shots with our licensed drone pilots, adding a dynamic perspective to your productions.

Whether you’re looking to capture compelling testimonials, conduct engaging interviews, or showcase your brand story, St. Louis Locations has the expertise and resources to bring your vision to fruition. Contact us today to learn more about how we can elevate your next production.

St. Louis Locations is a full-service professional commercial photography and video production company based in St. Louis, Missouri. With our comprehensive range of services, experienced crew, and state-of-the-art equipment, we are committed to delivering exceptional results for our clients. From studio setups to outdoor shoots, editing to drone footage, we have everything you need to make your next production a success. Contact us today to discuss your project requirements and let us help you bring your vision to life.

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

Missouri and Illinois professional location scouts for film and photography productions

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.

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.