Filming on location

Filming on location is one of those things that can either go really well or be something of a Greek tragedy. Because there is simply so much going on and so many ways in which things can go wrong, location managers are fundamental to the success of any production that ventures outside the comfortable walls of the studio.

A location manager is the focal point of all logistical decision making when a production unit is filming on location. In fact they’re just as significant a player as the director or producer in the day-to-day running of an on-location set (though keep it to yourself because there are often enough egos vying for attention on a shoot!).

What do location managers do?

As well as being responsible for finding and securing sites to shoot at, and arranging for everyone and everything to be delivered when and where it needs to be, location managers are also tasked with the job of being the shoot’s liaison to the local community. This is to ensure that they are kept happy, or at least not too unhappy, while a production is filming on location. The job requires someone diplomatic, tactful and quick thinking, essentially someone who can be the face of the shoot to the outside world. A location manager needs to be energetic, friendly and mobile, able to travel to or from anywhere at a moment’s notice.

Where do they sit in the production hierarchy?

A location manager can be appointed to the role either by the producer, assistant producer, director or designer on a shoot. They remain answerable to the production team first and foremost but, in working with virtually every head of department, they have to keep everyone who is filming on location sweet.

Their job in more detail

The location manager’s starting point is to be the project’s primary location scout. A production team needs to know that camera and lighting requirements have been considered, that local permits have been sought and that the community where the filming is to take place is on board. Incidental matters like the position of the sun during the shoot, traffic in and around the location and the noise it creates, and possible roadworks on the day of the shoot need to have been taken into consideration by the location manager when filming on location.

A good location manager has to remain aware of the costs of filming on location too, making sure that everything can go on without a hitch and without breaking the bank.

The Knowledge has the details of some of the very best location managers in the business, people with genuine experience and the ability to help filming on location run smoothly. So if you are looking for a location manager for your TV or film production then you’ll find them on The Knowledge.

Search today to ensure that you have the best people working for you.