Why Location Scouting Is Half the Story (No, Really)
Every filmmaker knows that even the best performances and cinematography can fall flat if the location doesn’t support the message you’re trying to convey.
That’s why location scouting for film should be considered so much more than just a logistical afterthought. Location scouting is a tool for storytelling.
At STORM+SHELTER, we never settle for “that’ll do”. That’s why we always push ourselves and our clients to think beyond the basics so we can create content with purpose and full of creativity.
And that’s why location in film production is so important.
Location Is Story, Not Just Background
Filming locations are more than just a necessity to get the production up and running. When used correctly, locations can be filled with metaphor, authenticity, and atmosphere.
Even a well-considered but “generic” location can completely change the tone of a scene; if Harry Potter took the Hogwarts Express from Cardiff Central instead of King's Cross, the scene would work, but the air of magic and whimsy just wouldn’t quite be the same.
The right filming location will effortlessly help tell your story; a concrete high-rise might connote destitution and the working class, whereas a field filled with flowers might evoke feelings of happiness and represent beauty and abundance.
This highlights the importance of location in film production; without it, an audience’s perception of the film’s world could be wrongly shaped, which can impact tone, character psychology, and the narrative stakes.
What Location Scouting for Film Really Involves
So, you now know that location scouting for film goes way beyond just finding the cheapest or even the coolest spot. Effective and meaningful location scouting takes equal care and consideration of both the creative and practical aspects of the production.
A location scout should reflect on a location’s alignment with the story and the visual continuity of the piece. Similarly, important details such as access, permits, and logistics need to be thought through, as well as seemingly minor points such as the weather patterns.
On the surface, location scouting may seem easy, but overlooking any of these factors can have a serious impact on the final film.
How to Scout Locations Like a Storyteller
1. Start with the Script & Storyboard: The film’s script and storyboard should tell you everything you need to know in order to find the best filming locations. Beyond practical descriptions, take the emotions of each scene into consideration to find a location that enhances without distracting.
2. Build a Visual Library: During the scouting process, you may visit anywhere between 10 and 50 locations, depending on the size of the production. So, creating a library full of visual references is essential. Top Tip: Take photos of everything and from every angle!
3. Scout with the Camera in Mind: Speaking of angles, don’t just use your eyes when location scouting for film. Use a camera to test shots and lighting, as it will have a serious impact on the production’s time and budget if a location isn’t compatible with the director’s or client’s vision.
4. Revisit Locations: Similarly, once you’ve narrowed down your location options, visit these places at different times of the day. This will help you to assess the lighting and sound, which will help in the long run with scheduling.
When Location Choices Make or Break a Production
As we briefly saw in those four steps, strong and effective location scouting can save time and money, improve performance, and even elevate production value.
However, there are a few common mistakes to avoid:
Under-estimating logistical challenges
Ignoring sound and lighting issues
Choosing aesthetics over functionality
These not only impact the production, but they can also impact the audience’s experience of the film and ultimately sway the story’s message and vision. Therefore, it’s crucial to get location scouting right from the start.
Location Scouting as a Creative Investment
However, despite the importance of location in film production, many still see it as just a pre-production overhead. But investing in the right location pays off with:
Fewer compromises on set
Stronger visuals in post-production
A more cohesive final film
So, although location scouting can be done yourself, the real value of working with a professional comes from stronger audience engagement, clearer storytelling, and the time and money saved on reshoots.
Why “Half the Story” Isn’t an Exaggeration
There you have it, that’s why location scouting for film is more than a luxury add-on; it influences storytelling, production efficiency, and audience immersion.
Film production isn’t just about the end product; it’s about the weeks or even months of planning and preparation, and location scouting is part of that process.
How We Can Help Tell Your Story
We hope you found this guide useful and can see the true value in location scouting.
To learn more about how we can help with your next production, get in touch with the team at content@stormandshelter.com or 02920 251255.
