Location Scout
A Location Scout is a professional who finds and secures filming locations for movies, TV shows, commercials, and photo shoots. They work ahead of the production team to identify places that match what the director and producers want. Think of them as real estate agents for the film industry – they find the perfect settings, whether it's a historic mansion, a busy street, or a beautiful beach. They also handle initial negotiations with property owners and make sure locations are practical for filming in terms of parking, power access, and permits.
Examples in Resumes
Served as Location Scout for 12 major commercial productions across the Southeast region
Lead Location Scouting efforts for Netflix series, securing 25+ unique filming locations
Worked as Location Scout and Location Manager for independent films with budgets under $5M
Typical job title: "Location Scouts"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Location Scouts
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Networking
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you handle a situation where your main location falls through just before filming?
Expected Answer: A senior location scout should discuss their backup location strategy, relationships with property owners, and ability to quickly find and secure alternative locations while considering budget and schedule impacts.
Q: How do you manage complex location budgets and negotiations?
Expected Answer: Should explain experience with handling large budgets, negotiating with multiple stakeholders, understanding location fees, permits, insurance, and managing unexpected costs.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What factors do you consider when evaluating a potential location?
Expected Answer: Should mention practical considerations like parking, power sources, noise levels, lighting, accessibility, and potential scheduling conflicts, along with creative requirements.
Q: How do you secure permits for difficult locations?
Expected Answer: Should discuss experience with different permit offices, understanding of local filming regulations, and ability to navigate bureaucratic processes.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What tools do you use to find and document potential locations?
Expected Answer: Should mention photography equipment, location databases, mapping tools, and basic documentation methods for recording location details.
Q: How do you approach property owners when scouting locations?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate professional communication skills, basic understanding of location agreements, and ability to explain the filming process to property owners.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic photography skills
- Knowledge of location documentation
- Understanding of basic filming requirements
- Ability to communicate with property owners
Mid (2-5 years)
- Permit acquisition experience
- Budget management
- Location database management
- Strong negotiation skills
Senior (5+ years)
- Complex logistics management
- Large budget handling
- Team leadership
- Crisis management
Red Flags to Watch For
- No knowledge of local filming permits and regulations
- Poor photography skills
- Lack of transportation or valid driver's license
- No experience with location agreements or contracts
- Poor communication or negotiation skills
Related Terms
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