Conducting a location survey prior to shooting helps public affairs and visual information professionals become familiar with the environment as well as the limitations of the equipment being used. Solve problems before shooting to create one less difficulty during the shoot.
Sometimes production happens in the field, with only one chance to get the footage and no time or opportunity for rehearsals. When that happens, the only thing you can do is adapt and adjust; but the best way to learn more about an area is to experience it through a pre-planning site survey. To conduct a thorough site survey, go to the location where you will be shooting. If that is not possible, find photos or maps through an online search or by asking your subject matter expert or point of contact for images from a continuity book.
Keep in mind that a site survey alone does not ensure success. It is crucial to always arrive at the shoot or event early to confirm your plan is still viable. You need to ensure you can still shoot from where you intended and that you can use the outlets you identified. Often event planners will make significant changes after you were there last, and you have to adapt your plan.
Use this checklist to help you conduct a thorough site survey covering security, safety and hazard concerns to be aware of and correct before a shoot.
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Research location features:
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Identify indoor locations, windows, equipment, furniture placement, restricted space, cramped rooms, reflective walls and floors and mixed lighting that can impact the shoot.
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Determine if outdoor locations will have unique complications (e.g., special audio requirements, camera positions, weather, the sun at the time of the event, etc.).
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Check the overall illumination of the background.
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Look for distracting objects (e.g., poles, plants, etc.).
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Listen for wanted and unwanted sounds from the environment.
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Consider traffic type, patterns, flow and noise.
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Contemplate crowd size and noise.
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Study the size, layout and physical features of the area.
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Consider available power versus needs.
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Identify the location of electrical outlets.
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Look for secure or classified information that may be displayed on walls, whiteboards or screens in the location (e.g., maps, passwords or other personal identification information).
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