Whether you are shooting a short film, a commercial, music video or need a location for a photo shoot, finding the right space can be a challenge. 

Film shoots need resources, people, great facilities and a professional venue with a ‘can-do’ attitude. Finding a place that encompasses all of these qualities can be hard and very time consuming.

So what do you need to look for in a film shoot location?

HERE ARE 8 TOP TIPS YOU NEED TO CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING YOUR NEXT FILMING LOCATION

1) TOUR THE VENUE AND SURROUNDING AREAS IN PERSON

Make sure you tour and visit your potential film shoot space in person before you book anything. Talk about any restrictions that may be in place around filming times, parking, load-in/load-out or available areas. The best event venues will offer you a personal walk-round of all the spaces available for the shoot with a knowledgeable member of staff.

2) FIND A VERSATILE VENUE

Find a venue that offers versatility. Can you use it for just one type of scene, or does it have potential to double up for more. Look for a venue that has range of different types of spaces, both indoor and outdoor, and don’t forget that venues with private service roads can be perfect for shooting street scenes too.

3) LOOK FOR A VENUE WITH PREVIOUS FILMING EXPERIENCE

Find a venue that is experienced in dealing with film shoots. They understand the practicalities and logistics that go into filming and will be a lot more intuitive to your needs.

4) MAKE SURE PARKING & STORAGE SPACE IS AVAILABLE

If you have experience with filming and production you know that plenty of car parking space and room for equipment is a must. Your event venues must have space not just for your shoot, but for all the people, equipment and services that come along with it.

5) CHOOSE A SPACE THAT IS EASY TO REACH

Choosing a venue with great transport links can be invaluable. Whether it’s by plane, train or car, an easy to reach venue will make everyone’s lives a lot easier.

6) ON-SITE CATERING IS ALWAYS A PLUS

Take the stress out of keeping everyone fed and watered by choosing a venue with good on-site catering, with a range of dining and refreshment packages. Remember, not all venues will be open to you bringing in off-site caterers, so if this is what you plan to do, make sure your venue will allow this as an option.

7) CHECK POWER & WIFI CAPABILITIES

Look for a venue with plenty of power points (inside and out) and high-internet speed. Internet speed for event venue is crucial if you are planning on live-streaming or hosting a gaming event where multiple players need to connected simultaneously online. On-site security can be a welcoming addition, especially if you have to leave sets overnight.

8) EXPERIENCED ON-SITE MANAGEMENT IS KEY

Last but not least, hire a venue that has an experienced in-house events team. These guys will not only know the venue like the back of their hand (very handy if you need specific lighting conditions etc), but its their job to make sure that everything you need from the venue is in place for you to have a successful shoot.

Piovra Group specializes in venue booking for events and filming. Check out our list of venues available for filming and photo shoots and contact us to book the prefect space for your next project.