location is key
IN this post we are going to be looking at Location. And as the saying goes……
Location is key….
one of the most important aspects of my job is choosing the right location for a film or commercial project. The location sets the tone and provides a foundation for the visual world we are creating on screen.
The right location can make a huge impact on the art direction, and it’s my job to ensure that everything is working in harmony to tell the story.
When choosing a location, there are several key factors to consider. First and foremost is the story itself.
What is the mood we are trying to create? What is the era or time period we are depicting?
These are just a few questions we need to ask ourselves before we even start scouting locations.
For example, if we are shooting a period piece set in the 1800s, we will need to find a location that reflects that time period.
The architecture, landscaping, and overall vibe of the location need to fit the story we are trying to tell.
Another factor to consider is the practicality of the location.
Is it accessible? Is it safe for the cast and crew?
Will we be able to shoot in the location for an extended period of time without disrupting the day-to-day operations of the surrounding area?
These are all important considerations that need to be taken into account when scouting locations.
One project that I worked on where location played a significant role was a commercial set in a small town in the Midwest. We needed to find a location that had a certain look and feel to it, one that would help transport the audience into the world of the film.
We scouted several locations before settling on a town in Iowa that had the perfect mix of architecture, scenery, and practicality.
The town had a charming main street with vintage storefronts, wide open fields for exterior shots, and a friendly community that was eager to work with us.
Location Transformation
Once we had secured the location, it was time to start transforming it .
This involved a lot of collaboration between myself, the director, and the rest of the creative team.
We had to create a visual language that would bring the location to life and support the story we were telling.
This involved everything from set dressing and props to lighting and camera angles.
We wanted to make sure that every detail was thoughtfully considered and in service of the story.
set design
For example, one of the key scenes in the film takes place in a diner.
We wanted the diner to feel like a real place, but also to have a certain vintage charm to it that fit with the overall aesthetic.
We worked with a talented set decorator to find the perfect mix of vintage and modern elements that would bring the diner to life.
We sourced authentic vintage posters and signs, and worked with a local diner to borrow some key pieces of furniture and decor.
We also played around with the lighting and camera angles to create a cozy and intimate atmosphere that felt true to the story.
project location
Another project where location played a significant role was a commercial shoot for a car brand.
We needed to find a location that would showcase the car in the best possible light, while also providing a sense of adventure and community.
We scouted several locations before settling
We worked closely with the director and cinematographer to create a visual language that would showcase the car and the location in the best possible light.
This involved playing around with different lighting setups, camera angles, and lenses to create a sense of adventure and fun.
Final thoughts
Location is a key factor in the art direction of a film or commercial project.
It sets the tone and provides a foundation for the visual world we are creating on screen.
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