Judging Suitability of Film Locations

There are NO perfect film locations!

In terms of the British TV and Film industry, the actual location of your property in relation to the filming activity is one of the most important factors.

Today, most productions involve filming on location. The selection of film locations is very subjective, and depends on a number of critical factors. These include but aren't limited to:

• Is the property of the style dictated by the script? Could it be modified to suit?

• Is it big enough to get the correct angles for the desired shots?

• Is the film location close enough to my resource base?

• Is its proximity to roads likely to cause a problem with noise?

• Is there enough parking for the cast and crew?

• Is the rental tariff affordable within the budget of the film?

If the answer to these questions is yes, then you have the prefect property for "that" particular production.

You may find that your property ticks most, but not all, of the boxes, and that you aren't selected for a production.

If this occurs you shouldn't go out and re-paint or modify your property in any way. Re-decorating to suit the needs of a possible production is just like chasing shadows.

Always keep in mind that "this is a personal thing between your property, the Director and the script!"

Location - Regional Differences

London

Most film locations are in London and surrounding areas as the bulk of the UK's film production is performed there, but in other cities there are also smaller, vibrant communities of film makers too.

Naturally there is a greater quantity of rental opportunities in London to meet the demand, but there are also more properties marketing themselves, and so competition is much greater.

Outside London

If you live 40 miles or more outside of London, or from the film production centres, then you need to find a way to add value to your property.

The best way to do this is in your marketing - by building a picture of the local area at the same time as describing your film location property.

Many smaller film production companies film on fairly low budgets and may find it too expensive and time consuming for them to travel long distances to shoot their films.

Build a Picture

If the time shooting at your property can be combined with a shoot at a local churchyard, monument or a local landmark, this could even the balance and enhance your chances of winning the contract.

Directors will need very good reasons to select your property, and will often compromise on the location to film closer to their resource base (Actors, producers, directors etc).

If your property offers a great deal of flexibility, e.g different styles of rooms, exteriors etc, then be sure to emphasise this in your marketing activity.

Services - Food, Accommodation etc

You will also need to research accommodation and other logistics for the crew, as these are also key considerations for the Director. (see logistics)

It's worth remembering that time is most definitely money when it comes to shooting a production, and anything that makes life easier for the production team (like using multiple locations in the same day for different scenes) is likely to make your property more attractive.

Styles of Decor

It really makes no difference what style of furniture you have, or even if your property is almost derelict.

There is a market for renting every style and condition of property ... it really all depends on the productions that are being planned at that time.

If the Director likes everything about your property but the decor, then he may request that his team change the decor.

It is not difficult to move furniture into a period property that has relatively modern furniture, and it isn't hard to make a nice house look tired, messy or shabby.

This is not uncommon, but should never be allowed unless legal contracts have been signed stating that you allow this to happen, and that the production company will restore the property to its original state afterwards.

Again, leave your fixtures and fittings as they are and focus on the most important thing ... getting the attention of the Screenwriters, Directors and Location Scouts.