The demand for visually appealing content is at an all-time high. For businesses and organizations seeking to enhance their equity offering, dynamic commercial property videos have become an indispensable tool. These videos not only showcase properties in the best light but also help in attracting potential investors and clients. As a decision maker in photography and video production services, understanding the significance of these videos can give you a competitive edge in the market.
Importance of Dynamic Commercial Property Videos
When it comes to showcasing commercial properties, static images often fall short in capturing the essence and scale of the space. This is where dynamic commercial property videos come into play. By incorporating movement, sound, and compelling visuals, these videos provide a comprehensive view of the property, allowing potential investors and clients to immerse themselves in the space.
Engaging Storytelling
One of the key advantages of dynamic commercial property videos is their ability to tell a compelling story. Through strategic camera movements, captivating narratives, and expertly chosen music, these videos create an emotional connection with the audience, making them more likely to invest or engage with the property.
Highlighting Key Features
Unlike still images, videos allow for a more in-depth exploration of the property’s key features. Whether it’s showcasing the layout, amenities, or surrounding area, dynamic commercial property videos offer a comprehensive view that static images simply cannot match.
Increased Engagement and Conversion Rates
Studies have shown that video content drives higher engagement and conversion rates compared to traditional forms of media. By incorporating dynamic commercial property videos into your marketing strategy, you can attract more attention to your offerings and ultimately increase your chances of closing deals.
The Art of Commercial Property Videography
Creating effective commercial property videos requires a blend of technical expertise and creative vision. From choosing the right camera angles to crafting a compelling narrative, every aspect of the production process plays a crucial role in the success of the video.
Professional Equipment and Expertise
At St Louis Locations, we understand the importance of quality equipment and experienced crew members in producing exceptional commercial property videos. With state-of-the-art cameras, lighting equipment, and licensed drone pilots, we ensure that every video we produce meets the highest standards of excellence.
Tailored Solutions for Your Needs
Whether you’re showcasing a retail space, office building, or industrial property, we offer customized solutions to suit your specific requirements. From full-service studio productions to on-location shoots, we have the expertise and resources to bring your vision to life.
Maximizing Your ROI
In addition to creating stunning commercial property videos, we also specialize in repurposing your content across different platforms and media formats. By maximizing the reach and impact of your videos, we help you gain more traction and ultimately enhance your equity offering.
Elevate Your Equity Offering with St Louis Locations
As a full-service video and photography production company, St Louis Locations has worked with many businesses, marketing firms, and agencies in the St. Louis area for their corporate photography and video needs. With our extensive experience, state-of-the-art equipment, and creative expertise, we are committed to delivering exceptional results that exceed your expectations. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you enhance your equity offering with dynamic commercial property videos.
Call to Action: Contact St Louis Locations today to elevate your equity offering with dynamic commercial property videos.
In the ever-evolving world of marketing and advertising, businesses are constantly searching for innovative ways to connect with their target audience and drive growth. One such method that has proven to be highly effective is the use of testimonial videos. These powerful marketing tools not only provide credibility and authenticity but also offer a unique opportunity to showcase the real-life experiences and success stories of satisfied customers. As an experienced corporate videographer at St. Louis Locations, I have witnessed firsthand how testimonial videos can drive business growth and make a significant impact on a company’s success.
The Power of Testimonial Videos
Testimonial videos are a form of user-generated content that allows customers to share their experiences with a product or service. These videos typically feature satisfied customers talking about their positive interactions with a company, its products, or its services. The effectiveness of testimonial videos lies in their ability to build trust, establish credibility, and create a strong emotional connection with the audience. Here are some key reasons why testimonial videos are so powerful:
1. Authenticity
Authenticity is crucial in today’s marketing landscape. Customers are savvy and can easily spot inauthentic or scripted content. Testimonial videos, featuring real customers sharing their honest opinions, are seen as more trustworthy and genuine. When potential customers see others like themselves expressing satisfaction, they are more likely to believe the claims made by the company.
2. Credibility
Testimonial videos provide third-party validation for a company’s products or services. They serve as endorsements from real people who have experienced the value offered by the business. This added credibility can be a game-changer, especially in industries where trust is paramount, such as healthcare, finance, or B2B services.
3. Emotional Connection
Video is a powerful medium for storytelling, and testimonial videos excel at creating emotional connections. When viewers see and hear the emotions of satisfied customers, they are more likely to resonate with the message and develop a positive perception of the brand. Emotional engagement can lead to stronger brand loyalty and increased customer retention.
4. Humanization
Testimonial videos humanize a brand. They put a face and a voice to the company, making it more relatable. Potential customers are more likely to connect with real people sharing their experiences than with faceless advertisements or written testimonials.
Crafting Compelling Testimonial Videos
Creating effective testimonial videos requires careful planning, execution, and storytelling. As an experienced corporate videographer, I can share some insights into the process of crafting compelling testimonial videos that drive business growth:
1. Identify the Right Customers
Not every customer will be an ideal candidate for a testimonial video. Identify customers who have a genuine positive experience to share and are willing to participate in the video. Consider their demographics and the specific benefits they’ve received from your product or service.
2. Prepare Questions
Prepare a list of open-ended questions that will guide the testimonial interview. These questions should encourage customers to share their experiences, challenges they faced before using your product or service, and the results they achieved. Keep the conversation natural and unscripted.
3. Choose the Right Setting
Select a suitable location for filming the testimonial video. It could be on-site at your business, in a customer’s environment, or in a studio setting. The choice of location should enhance the authenticity of the video and align with your brand image.
4. Capture Authentic Moments
During the interview, focus on capturing authentic moments and genuine emotions. Avoid rehearsed or scripted responses. The beauty of testimonial videos lies in their spontaneity and honesty.
5. Edit Thoughtfully
In the post-production phase, edit the video thoughtfully. Ensure it flows smoothly and maintains viewer engagement. Incorporate visuals, graphics, and background music if appropriate, but always prioritize the customer’s story.
6. Share Across Multiple Channels
Once the testimonial video is ready, leverage multiple marketing channels to share it with your target audience. This includes your website, social media platforms, email newsletters, and even at industry events. The goal is to maximize its reach and impact.
The St. Louis Locations Advantage
As a full-service professional commercial video production company, St. Louis Locations is well-equipped to help businesses harness the power of testimonial videos for driving growth. Our team of experienced videographers understands the nuances of creating authentic and compelling testimonial videos that resonate with your target audience.
Full-Service Studio and Location Video Production
We offer both studio and location video production services to cater to diverse media requirements. Whether you need an on-site shoot or a controlled studio environment, we have the expertise and equipment to deliver high-quality results.
Editing and Post-Production
Our post-production team is skilled in enhancing and refining your testimonial videos to ensure they effectively convey your message. We can add graphics, animations, and music to elevate the visual appeal of your videos.
Repurposing for Maximum Traction
At St. Louis Locations, we understand the value of repurposing content. We can repurpose your testimonial videos into various formats to reach a broader audience. This includes creating shorter clips for social media, blog posts, or email campaigns.
Versatility in Media and Software
We are well-versed in all file types and styles of media, as well as accompanying software. This means we can handle any unique requirements or specifications you have for your testimonial videos.
In conclusion, testimonial videos are a powerful tool for driving business growth, and St. Louis Locations is your trusted partner in harnessing their potential. We have a proven track record of working with businesses and agencies in the St. Louis area, providing top-notch corporate photography and video production services. If you’re ready to take your marketing efforts to the next level and boost your brand’s credibility, contact us today.
Discover the St. Louis Locations difference and let us help you tell your success stories through compelling testimonial videos.
Contact us now to get started on your journey to business growth through the magic of testimonial videos. Your success story is waiting to be told, and we’re here to make it happen.
stlouislocations@gmail.com
Studio 314-892-1233
Cell 314-913-5626
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
Selecting the ideal outfit for a headshot session can be hard. Wrong choices can ruin the outcome. A great way to make sure you get the best result is to choose something that shows your personality and fits the photoshoot.
Here are the top tips for selecting an outfit for a headshot session:
Consider colors and patterns
When picking an outfit for your headshot photoshoot, there are certain things to consider. Opt for solid colors. Bright blues, greens, pinks or yellows should be avoided as they can make the background too busy and can clash with skin tones. Darker colors like black, navy, gray and brown are better. Textured fabrics can add depth, but don’t go overboard. Stripes or plaids should be avoided. If you have a patterned shirt, make sure it doesn’t stand out too much.
When it comes to accessories, keep it simple. Don’t let their colors overwhelm the photo.
Choose clothing that fits you well
Choose clothing that fits you properly for your headshot photography session. Too large and shape is undefined. Too tight and uncomfortable, unflattering. Good fit should enhance shape and not pinch.
Bring various clothes for different headshots. Neutrals like blue, earth tones, grey are good, but bright colours bring life. Avoid bold stripes, distracting patterns. Stick to solids and simple designs so focus is on your face.
For a more professional look, dress like an interview day. Formal wear like suits or cocktail dresses.
Clothing should be clean, crisp, pressed. Fabric freshener beforehand. Steam just before each shot to avoid wrinkles and ensure attention on your face. Fitted pieces (including jackets) stop clothing from moving around.
Avoid logos and busy patterns
When choosing clothing for a headshot photography session, make sure it is clean, neat and professional-looking. You don’t need to be in a suit or formal attire but still consider what is appropriate for the setting. Solid colors bring attention to your face better.
Take into account skin and hair tones. Certain shades may blend too much. If the photography requires a specific look, pay attention to any required accessories such as ties and jewelry. Avoid logos and busy patterns. These can be distracting in photos.
Accessorize
Headshots are not just about your clothes. Accessories matter too! They can make your look stand out. Here’s the scoop on accessorizing.
Choose the right one for your headshot photoshoot. It’s important!
Choose jewelry and accessories that complement your outfit
Jewelry and accessories are great for enhancing your look. Select pieces that suit your outfit and face shape. When creating a pro headshot, timeless style is better than trendy. To achieve an effortless, polished look, choose accessories suitable for the occasion.
With a blouse with puffed sleeves, a simple pearl necklace or small stud earrings can balance the design. The best jewelry advice for a headshot is to pick pieces that reflect your style but are still classic. Bold statement pieces are best limited to one item, eg. a drop earring or statement necklace. Avoid large dangling earrings, chokers, excessive bracelets or rings.
To ensure the focus is on you, opt for plain metals like sterling silver or 14k gold instead of costume items like cloth or plastic beads.
Consider adding a scarf or hat for a more dramatic look
A scarf or hat in your headshot session can give a dramatic look and show off your personality! Pick one of medium scale, so it doesn’t take over the photo. Look for textures and patterns, with classic fabrics and colors that match your outfit. Scarves are ideal, because they add visual interest and movement. Any size or style – neutral long-style, bright-colored shawl, or vintage necktie – will work.
Hats can add character, but be aware they can cast shadows. If you choose more than one accessory, bring extras in case they clash with tops. That way all looks are cohesive and aesthetically pleasing.
Hair and Makeup
A professional headshot is all about showing the best version of you. Hair and makeup styling is essential. Pick the right hairstyle, and the right makeup. Create a smart, stylish look that is all yours.
Here are some tips to help you nail your headshot session.
Choose a hairstyle that fits your face shape
Choose a hairstyle that fits your face shape and complements your look. Start by determining your face shape: round, oval, rectangular, or triangular?
Round Faces: Go for layers or tousled waves with movement. Avoid blunt cuts and center parts.
Oval Faces: Soft layers and volume at the crown look good.
Rectangular Faces: Choose styles with lots of volume to soften the sharpness. Waves also help add width.
Triangular Faces: Try asymmetrical styles and sweeping bangs. Blunt cuts can make faces too severe.
Texture matters too! Find styles that work best with your hair type & length. Keep it simple, professional, and approachable. Avoid wild colors/patterns.
Consider a professional makeup artist
Getting a pro makeup artist for your headshot? A great idea! They have the skill and tools to make you look your best. Plus, they can suggest the right makeup for your face shape and wardrobe colors. And, they can hide any shadows, blemishes or discolorations.
Let your artist come early on shoot day. They need time to get foundation, powder, eyeshadow, liner, lipstick or gloss just right. Give them enough time, and bring photos of looks you like. With a pro, you’ll always look polished, even on short notice!
Shoes
Choosing shoes for your headshot photography session can be tough. You need to pick the perfect shoes to make your photos stand out. Neutral, plain and timeless shoes usually work best.
Let’s take a look at what shoes you could wear for your session.
Choose shoes that match your outfit
When picking your shoes for your headshot session, it’s crucial to pick wisely! You want shoes that don’t just match your outfit, but also look amazing and appropriate. Here are some tips:
• Think about how they’ll look in photos. Avoid bright or neon colors, and instead opt for neutral tones like black or beige, or even metallics like silver or gold.
• Match the color of your shoes with your outfit. If you’re wearing dark colors, pick dark shoe tones; for lighter colors, choose light shoe tones.
• Comfort is key! If the shoes aren’t comfortable, there’s no point in wearing them. Opt for straps and break in any new shoes.
• Keep them professional. Avoid anything too flashy like sequined stilettos or flashy sneakers. Stick with a classic style that adds elegance without being too showy.
By following these tips, you can make sure your headshots will perfectly capture who you are and what you do!
Consider wearing heels to elongate your legs
Women may want to wear heels to give a height boost. Low profile heels are best, like a nude heel or kitten heel. Heels should be under 3 inches.
Men should opt for dress shoes or boots. Open-toed sandals are not good for business photos. Choose lighter colors like beige, brown or black for the best effect. Avoid clunky shoes.
Final Touches
Headshot photography sessions need the perfect finishing touches. Clothing is essential, from the colors to the textures. Knowing what to wear is key for a professional image that shows off your personality. So, what should you wear for your headshot photography session?
Let us explore!
Bring a few different outfits to the session
Photographers and clients understand that having a variety of wardrobe choices is key for a great headshot session. Bring two to three outfits that represent the roles you want to be considered for. For example, if you’re an actor, one should be typical of your on-stage character preferences – such as business attire or dressy evening wear. Another should be more down-to-earth, and maybe one in between.
Choose neutral colors – like black, navy blue, dark gray or brown. No logos or bold patterns. Bright colors can work, if kept to a minimum. For men, jacket and tie combos with a plain white shirt variant for each look. Avoid short sleeves. Women can opt for clothing that flatters their shape with several necklines – v-necks, boatnecks, round necks. Accessories can help bring out each look – statement jewelry pieces – but don’t overdo it! Hair and makeup should be natural looking. Use cosmetics subtly – lighten/even skin, slight touches to eyebrows/eyes/cheeks/lips. Don’t forget clean, well polished shoes! Professional headshots need thorough preparation!
Bring a few props to add more interest to your photos
For headshot photography, dress for the job you want. Choose outfits that are appropriate for your profession. Add props like books, awards, sports equipment or even a pet to personalize the session. Don’t let the props take away from you as the focus of the photo.
Men should bring items like briefcases, sunglasses or hats. Women may bring bags or jewelry. If you have questions, talk to the photographer ahead of time.
When posing, keep both hands free and visible. Listen to the photographer’s direction and poses. Place the items strategically in each shot to create great images!
Mike Haller
mikeh@hallerconcepts.com
4501 Mattis Road
St. Louis, MO 63128
Studio 314-892-1233
Cell 314-913-5626
Location scouting is about more than just finding the right room or park for a specific scene. Location scouting allows key members of the crew to walk through the space they want to shoot in and ensure it not only looks great but can support the needs of the shooting crew and cast.
It also is a great time to uncover any potential problems with the location, such as lack of adequate lighting or power.
While this may seem obvious, the script holds the most important information when it comes to finding the right location to shoot a certain scene. Each and every noteworthy element must be considered.
Is the shoot a period piece? Does it take place in a certain kind of park in a certain part of the world? What elements does the writer describe being included in the space the scene takes place? What time of day is it supposed to be?
Film, video and photography location scouts in St. Louis
Carefully review every part of the script so that you can go into your location scout with a solid picture of exactly what kind of location you’ll need for each scene you’re planning to shoot.
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.
The production will do their best to make company moves easy, parking easy, and take care of all the other things but a DP has to be on the look out for things like 2nd story locations, tight access for rigging and cardinal orientation of a set. The earlier you spot a problem the more likely you will be able to fix it before the shoot.
We are also well versed in flying drones and can help scout your location and provide drone aerial images and video.
Mike Haller
314-892-1233
stlouislocations@gmail.com
9910 Claywood Court
St. Louis, MO 63126
Selecting the right location for a successful shoot.
Scouting locations is a vital pre-production step that will help you meet almost any challenge when you shoot video or photography in the field. Here are several tips that will help you as you scope out potential video shooting locations.
1. Know your script. Choose a site that matches the setting of your story. This is the first rule of location scouting. As you set out to evaluate locations, you’ll likely face countless possibilities: natural areas, historic sites, distinctive buildings, urban landscapes and waterfront settings, to name a few. Remember, above all, that you have a story to tell. Choose a location that lends itself to the story you want to produce. You should never be bound by your locations. Locations are simply raw materials. You need to know what the script demands before you can select a suitable location.
2. Scout at the right time. Be aware that locations can change. It’s wise to check your spot on the day of the week and the time of day that you’ll be taping: these factors can produce surprisingly large changes on the suitability of a location.
Automobile traffic and noise, visitors to recreation and entertainment spots, and tourists at scenic or historic areas (to name just a few examples) all come in waves that vary dramatically based on the time of day, the day of the week and the season.
3. Look at light. Churches, ballrooms, restaurants, auditoriums and homes generally feature low amounts of available lighting. Check light levels by shooting a few seconds of test footage with your camcorder.
Solutions for poor lighting might be as simple as scouting out window blinds and curtains that can be opened to add daylight. In some cases you may wish to bring in lights or ask permission to replace the bulbs in accessible light fixtures with brighter-burning units.
4. Follow the sun. Outdoor lighting conditions can be as challenging as those indoors; exterior illumination changes all day long. As you’re scouting locations, pay attention to whether a given spot is in full sun, partial sun or full shade. Bright sun can be harsh on people’s faces, and light-colored surfaces can blow out in full sunlight, causing automatic camcorder lenses to underexpose shots. Partial sun can be tricky, as well; today’s camcorders, though sophisticated, can have trouble handling the high contrast in this situation. Ultimately, you may find that fully shaded locations or overcast days produce the most consistent results.
5. Check for power supplies. Many outdoor locations are far from power sources and even some indoor locations can pose AC challenges, so multiple camera batteries are always a good idea. But you’ll still need to evaluate your power options at any location.
How will you power your lights? What if you do end up draining all your batteries? Is there anywhere to plug in the charger? Is the spot remote enough to make a car-lighter AC adapter a good idea? In a location that does have power, you may be able to plug in, but you’ll still need to think about the system’s pre-existing load and whether or not you can get to the fuse (breaker) box in case something blows.
6. Listen. Clean, high-quality sound is critical in making a video that rises above the ordinary, and its silence that ensures you get the location sound that you came for.
The whooshing of traffic, the white noise of moving water, and the echoes of voices and movements can all get in the way of high-quality audio. As you scout a location, check for any of these conditions by listening to your camcorder’s microphone pickup through headphones. Test your wireless mike at the site as well, listening closely for any type of interference.
7. Examine the elements. Sun, rain, wind, snow, heat, and cold — all of nature’s elements can help or hurt, depending on what you’re hoping to capture on film. So, it’s critical to check the forecast as you’re scouting.
Video cameras don’t like rain, salty beach air or moisture from waterfalls. Smeared lenses and water or salt inside the card reader can spell disaster. Bright, hot locations with lots of sunlight can also be a problem: black and gray camcorder bodies absorb the sun’s rays and can cause overheating when left exposed. A beach or patio umbrella can help protect your gear from the elements in both sun and rain.
Cold temperatures can drain batteries and make you and your helpers uncomfortable very quickly. Plan to keep equipment warm by storing it inside a coat or car until you’re ready to shoot, and by wrapping it in a spare scarf or jacket while taping. And watch out when bringing cameras back into warm interiors from the frigid outdoors: this can cause significant amounts of moisture to condense inside both optics and electronics.
8. Decide where to set up. Make sure that there’s adequate space for you to set up all of your gear, so that you’re able to get the shots you have in mind. A small shed may seem like the perfect location for a shoot, until you realize that there isn’t enough room to position your gear. You may have plenty of room in a large space like a church or an auditorium, but you may not be able to roam freely. As you scout your locations, verify that you can physically get to the spots you intend to shoot from.
9. Get permission. Be aware that you’ll need to secure permits and other legal permissions to shoot at certain locations. As you’re looking at a location, do a legal reality check.
Have you chosen a street or sidewalk location that will impede traffic? Do you plan to shoot on someone else’s property? Cemeteries, malls, grocery stores, corporations and businesses are all private property. Many owners will be happy to accommodate you if you ask, but if not, you’ll need to choose another location. It’s better to get permission in advance than to have a shoot interrupted by the authorities.
10. Evaluate the area. Check on communications: Is there cell phone reception in the area you’ve chosen to shoot? How about a nearby pay phone? If you’re driving a long way, have you planned for a breakdown?
Search the area for quick food stops to satisfy you and your crew in the midst of a busy schedule and double-check the address of a local electronics store, just in case you need to replace a cable or adapter.
One day, something will go wrong; it’s inevitable. But when you’ve scouted out the backup possibilities at a location, you can take most obstacles in stride.
11. And finally, take notes! When you sit down to evaluate a location after a day of exploring, you’ll be glad you have scouting reports to refer to. In your scouting expeditions for a shoot, in your daily travels, on your family vacations, and in your mind’s eye, you’ll come across countless locations and changing conditions, each of which will be unique and potentially important to you.
Write them down, take still photos or shoot a little video with a running audio commentary. Note the time of day, the quality of the light, the sounds in the air, and the things you felt. One day you might return.
We can scout, create, produce and place your content all over, no matter what size screen your viewer is using.
Getting your production to all types and sizes of viewing screens, whether it’s a theater, television, smartphone, tablet or desktop, we have produced a message for the media.
Today users have come to expect quick uninterrupted streaming and more polished, professional video productions. Not necessarily Hollywood style of budgets, but adequate enough to convey the message in an understandable audience respectful manner.
Our goal is to evaluate your communication goals, create and produce your message and just as important, delivering that message to the right audience.
314-892-1233
Mike Haller
4501 Mattis Road 63128
St Louis Location Scout
St Louis, Missouri, USA | Film, Video and Photography services
We’ll help find that right location and make you the star. We’ve been shooting and helping shooters since 1982. We know how to scout and work on getting you the best location for the price. Call us about your project parameters and we’ll guide you to the best course for your production whether its video, film or photography.
st louis video, film and photography locations, some are great, some are not. When you need great shots call on the experts, our team has been shooting in st louis since 1982. We know all the great locations. Plus we have a directory of wonderful house locations and are always updating our database for new and interesting locales. From the very modern and hip to the old timeless classics, the look and feel of your shoot will depend a great deal upon the location. Give it your first priority!
