film production scout

What to Look for When Scouting Video Locations: A Guide for Decision Makers

When it comes to creating high-quality video content, the location plays a pivotal role in setting the tone and enhancing the storytelling process. Whether you’re producing a commercial, an interview, or a promotional video, choosing the right location can make or break the production. As an experienced videographer or photographer, you understand the importance of every detail in the production process, and location scouting is no exception.

In this article, we’ll explore the essential factors to consider when scouting video locations, and how St Louis Locations, a full-service professional commercial photography and video production company, can ensure that your next production is a success.

1. Space and Layout
The size and layout of the location directly impact your ability to capture the shots you need. For instance, when filming interviews, you need to consider the space for the crew, equipment, and lighting setups. A spacious location with room for movement is essential for flexibility, particularly if you need to adjust camera angles or incorporate props into the scene.

At St Louis Locations, we offer a private studio that is perfectly suited for small productions and interview scenes. Our studio is large enough to accommodate various setups, including props, backdrops, and special lighting arrangements. The flexibility of our space ensures that we can create the ideal environment for your production needs.

2. Lighting Considerations
Good lighting is crucial to any video production, and the natural light of a location can either enhance or hinder the visual quality of your footage. When scouting locations, always assess how much natural light enters the space and how you can complement it with artificial lighting.

At St Louis Locations, we offer custom lighting setups in our private studio that cater to different styles of shoots. Whether you need soft, diffused lighting for a corporate video or more dramatic lighting for a creative shoot, our studio can accommodate your needs with precision. Our expert crew is experienced in making the best use of both natural and artificial light to achieve the desired effect.

3. Acoustic Properties
Sound quality is just as important as visual quality in video production. When filming interviews or any content with spoken words, you want to ensure that the location has minimal background noise. Locations with echo or unwanted reverberation can cause post-production headaches and detract from the overall quality of the video.

Our private studio at St Louis Locations is designed to provide optimal acoustics for small productions. We ensure that our environment is soundproofed to eliminate distractions, and we have a professional sound team to assist with any specific audio requirements you might have.

4. Ambiance and Aesthetics
The ambiance of a location directly influences the mood of your video. Whether you’re shooting in a corporate office, an industrial warehouse, or a cozy café, the location must align with the brand’s messaging and the tone of the video. Always consider the background elements and how they contribute to the overall aesthetic.

St Louis Locations excels in repurposing photography and video branding, ensuring that the locations we select complement the visual identity of your brand. From clean, minimalistic setups to more elaborate themed environments, we can tailor the atmosphere to fit your project’s needs. Our team is highly skilled in transforming ordinary spaces into visually compelling settings that enhance the overall production.

5. Accessibility and Logistics
Location accessibility is another important consideration when scouting for video production. Is the location easy to access for your crew, equipment, and talent? Are there power outlets, and does the location have internet connectivity if needed? Ensure that you consider parking, permits, and potential restrictions that might complicate the shoot.

St Louis Locations offers full-service production support, including location permits, access to our vast library of suitable locations, and assistance with all logistical needs. Our experienced location scouts handle everything from acquiring permits to coordinating security and police services, ensuring that your production runs smoothly from start to finish.

6. Indoor Drone Accessibility
A growing trend in modern video production is the use of drones for aerial shots, even indoors. Drones can add a cinematic flair to your video by capturing sweeping, dynamic shots that would otherwise be impossible to obtain. However, not all locations are suitable for drone flights, and you need a space with the right size and clearance.

At St Louis Locations, we have specialized drones that can fly indoors, allowing us to capture stunning aerial shots within confined spaces. This ability opens up creative possibilities for your production that were once limited to outdoor shoots.

7. Budget and Time Constraints
Lastly, the cost and timing of the location are crucial factors in the decision-making process. A well-scouted location can help keep your budget in check by reducing the need for expensive post-production fixes. It can also help save time during the shoot by providing the right environment for the task at hand.

At St Louis Locations, we understand the importance of balancing quality and budget. Our experienced team provides cost-effective solutions without compromising on the creativity and quality of your production. From pre-production to final edits, we ensure that every aspect of your video production is handled professionally and efficiently.

Why Choose St Louis Locations?
When it comes to successful video and photography productions, experience matters. St Louis Locations is a full-service professional commercial photography and video production company with extensive experience in working with businesses, marketing firms, and agencies across the St. Louis area since 1982. We are equipped with the right tools and a creative crew to handle all aspects of your production needs.

We specialize in full-service studio and location video and photography, as well as editing, post-production, and licensed drone pilots. Our studio’s private lighting and visual setup make it perfect for small productions and interviews, while our team is ready to assist with everything from custom interview setups to sound and camera operations. Additionally, we are well-versed in various file types, media styles, and software, ensuring that your production is captured and delivered in the highest quality.

Whether you need a location for a corporate shoot, a drone for aerial footage, or a customized production to elevate your brand’s image, St Louis Locations has the experience and equipment to make it happen. Let us help you achieve your vision and make your next video production a success.
stlouislocations@gmail.com
Studio 314-892-1233
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

The Pros and Cons of Hiring a Freelance vs. In-House Video Production Crew.


In today’s digital age, video has become an essential tool for businesses to effectively communicate their message and engage with their target audience. Whether it’s for marketing campaigns, brand promotions, or internal communications, high-quality videos can make a significant impact on your business’s success. When it comes to video production, one of the key decisions you’ll need to make is whether to hire a freelance video production crew or establish an in-house team. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages, and in this article, we’ll explore them in depth to help you make an informed decision.

Freelance Video Production Crew

Pros

  1. Cost-effectiveness: One of the most appealing aspects of hiring a freelance video production crew is the potential cost savings. Freelancers typically have lower overhead costs compared to an in-house team, allowing them to offer competitive rates for their services. This can be particularly beneficial for small businesses or organizations with limited budgets.
  2. Flexibility: Freelancers provide flexibility in terms of availability and scheduling. They can be hired on a project-by-project basis, allowing you to scale up or down as needed. This flexibility is particularly advantageous when you have sporadic or seasonal video production requirements.
  3. Specialized expertise: Freelancers often specialize in specific areas of video production, such as cinematography, editing, or motion graphics. Hiring freelancers with specialized skills can ensure that you have access to the best talent for each aspect of your video production process. This can result in higher-quality videos that effectively convey your message and resonate with your target audience.
  4. Fresh perspective: Freelancers bring a fresh perspective to your video projects. As outsiders, they can offer a new creative angle or innovative ideas that you may not have considered. Their diverse experiences working with different clients can bring a unique touch to your videos and help set you apart from your competitors.

Cons

  1. Limited availability: Freelancers often have multiple clients and projects, which means their availability may be limited or subject to change. If you have tight deadlines or require immediate revisions, coordinating with multiple freelancers can be challenging and time-consuming.
  2. Dependency on individual freelancers: When you hire freelancers, you’re relying on individual professionals rather than a cohesive team. This can be risky if a freelancer becomes unavailable or their work doesn’t meet your expectations. It’s important to thoroughly vet and communicate with freelancers to minimize potential issues.
  3. Lack of long-term commitment: Freelancers typically work on a project basis, which means they may not have a long-term commitment to your business. This lack of continuity can be a disadvantage if you’re looking for ongoing video production support or if you want to establish a consistent brand identity through your videos.

In-House Video Production Crew

Pros

  1. Dedicated team: Establishing an in-house video production crew gives you the advantage of having a dedicated team solely focused on your video production needs. They become intimately familiar with your brand, objectives, and vision, which can lead to better consistency and alignment in your videos.
  2. Immediate availability: With an in-house team, you have the advantage of immediate availability. You can directly communicate with your team, make real-time revisions, and ensure that your videos are produced within your desired timeline. This can be especially beneficial for time-sensitive projects or last-minute changes.
  3. Cohesive workflow: In-house teams work together regularly, fostering a cohesive workflow and efficient collaboration. They develop an understanding of each other’s strengths and weaknesses, allowing them to seamlessly integrate their skills and expertise to deliver high-quality videos consistently.
  4. Long-term investment: Building an in-house video production team allows you to make a long-term investment in your video production capabilities. By nurturing and developing your team’s skills, you create a valuable asset within your organization. They can adapt to your evolving video needs, maintain brand consistency, and contribute to your overall business growth.

Cons

  1. Higher costs: Hiring an in-house video production crew involves significant upfront and ongoing costs. You need to consider salaries, benefits, equipment, software, and training expenses. For small or medium-sized businesses with limited budgets, these costs can be prohibitive.
  2. Limited expertise: An in-house team may have limitations in terms of specialized expertise. While they may be skilled in certain areas of video production, they may lack the diversity of skills and perspectives that freelancers bring. This can limit your ability to explore new creative avenues or tackle complex projects that require specific expertise.
  3. Resource constraints: Building and maintaining an in-house team requires allocating resources, including time, effort, and management oversight. This can divert your attention from your core business activities and add additional responsibilities to your plate. It’s essential to assess whether you have the necessary resources to effectively manage and support an in-house team.

St. Louis Locations: Your Full-Service Video Production Partner

At St. Louis Locations, we understand the significance of video production in business branding and marketing. Our experienced team of video producers, commercial photographers, and location scouts are here to support your unique requirements and help you achieve your business goals.

Full-Service Video Production

Our full-service video production capabilities encompass every stage of the production process. From concept development and scriptwriting to filming, editing, and post-production, we have the expertise to bring your vision to life. Our team leverages the latest equipment and techniques to ensure the highest quality videos that captivate your audience and convey your brand’s message effectively.

Commercial Photography

In addition to video production, we offer professional commercial photography services. Whether you need product photography, corporate headshots, or lifestyle imagery for your marketing campaigns, our skilled photographers have an eye for capturing compelling visuals that showcase your brand in the best light.

Location Scouting

Finding the perfect location for your video or photoshoot is crucial for creating an immersive and visually appealing experience. Our experienced location scouts have an in-depth knowledge of St. Louis and can help you discover unique and captivating settings that align with your creative vision. We handle all the logistics, permits, and negotiations, ensuring a smooth and efficient process.

Business Branding and Employee Engagement

At St. Louis Locations, we recognize that your videos and visual content play a vital role in establishing and reinforcing your business branding. We work closely with you to understand your brand values, target audience, and marketing objectives. Our team integrates your brand elements seamlessly into the videos and photographs we create, ensuring a consistent and impactful representation of your brand.

Moreover, we believe in the power of employee engagement through video production. Whether it’s showcasing your company culture, conducting interviews with team members, or documenting special events, we can help you create videos that inspire and motivate your employees, fostering a sense of belonging and pride within your organization.

In conclusion, choosing between a freelance video production crew and an in-house team requires careful consideration of your specific needs, budget, and long-term objectives. Each option offers its own set of advantages and disadvantages. At St. Louis Locations, we provide full-service video production, commercial photography, and location scouting to cater to your unique requirements. Our experienced team is dedicated to delivering high-quality videos and visuals that elevate your brand and engage your target audience. Contact us today to discuss how we can help you achieve your business branding needs through our comprehensive services.

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