How to Find a Set for an Independent Film

Looking for a set or location for an independent film does not have to be a harrowing experience. Knowing what you want, and acting professional will get you a long way. Here are a few things that you should expect to do when looking for a film location for your independent film.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Computer
• Internet Connection
• Phone
• Car
• Camera

1. First, break down the script by location, and by whether the locations are interior or exterior sets.
2. If you do not know where to start, conduct a search online, or call local film location offices and/or city tourism offices.
3. Have a business card, and remain professional and honest about your needs and expectations when you meet with owners and managers of the locations and sites.
4. If a location you are looking at seems appropriate, take a lot of photos. Also take into account the location’s distance from other locations, travel time, difficulty in navigating terrain, parking restrictions, etc.
5. Make sure you get all pertinent information from the owner, including the daily fee, insurance needs, hours of availability, parking, load-in and load-out needs, and sound issues. Make sure you know what permits you will need, if there are neighborhood issues or local business concerns to contend with.
6. Arrange preliminary meetings and do a walk-through with the Director, the Director of Photography and any other key crew members.
7. Make arrangements for the film permits. You may also need to notify local fire and police departments, depending on where you are shooting and what you will be doing at the location.
8. Finalize the location fees with owner or property manager, and make payment arrangements.