LOCATIONS

Location shoots generally have their own set of rules. Owners usually rent their house out for two distinct reasons. A: money or B: because they are so proud of their house they want everyone to see it, especially all their neighbours!

If it is A, treat with caution as any marks left after filming can lead to expensive repairs. Often marks, not even caused by the shoot, can be blamed on the crew because the owner needed it repainting anyway and this way, the production pay, so proof is required.

I now try to photograph EVERY area the crew will be prior to dressing. I'll print these out before the shoot so we have a reference for the wrap. What is often annoying is not being notified when damage is done. It could be sparks, grips or camera dept and it's usually a mistake but if we aren't warned we can't deal properly with the owners at the wrap.

All the floors need protection, especially if wet. This reassures the owners and shows the crew that care is necessary. Owners are usually surprised at the sheer amount of crew and kit required and quite often never want to repeat the experience again.

Suitable areas need allocating for various departments and for the owners items. The props we bring need marking up so as they are not mixed up with the owners and preferably laid out on there own table. It is always worth having some polythene sheeting to protect anything stored outside should the weather change.

The wrap needs a clear plan. Someone packing and recording props, someone cleaning and someone touching up etc. We should liase early on what to do with the rubbish with the locations manager, this is usually just catering and sparks gear but we are usually left to deal with it.

Finally, always make sure the owner is satisfied that their house is returned to normal before leaving as return trips are often unpaid and unwelcome.