Location Release
for Your Independent Film Production
by Harlan Merriman
As independent filmmakers, we have to
catch breaks wherever we can get 'em. Anything to help the film production value and vision, right? Even if it means (gasp)
doing something the legit way. For my DVX100 film and video
productions, I'm
used to just running and gunning through public locations. BUT,
every once in a while, the movie production would call for a specific
location - a bar, a store, a coffeehouse. It's in these instances
that I'll make the effort to ask for permission to shoot on
private premises.
If the powers that be say 'no' -
oh well, I'll pick up and carry on elsewhere or try to write
around the scene. But if they say 'yes' then I'll make sure that
their trust in me and my little DVX 100 movie production won't be for nothing.
That's when I put on my 'professional' hat and slip them a
location release form.
Basically, a location release
form states in writing that you've received permission from a
figure of authority of a specific establishment to shoot your DVX
100 video production on their
premises.
Some proprietors say that it
won't be necessary - that your word is good enough for them, but
to show them the initiative and responsibility will speak volumes.
As an independent filmmaker (and a low budget one at that) your forging
new relationships and connections along the way is key.
So not only
you, but your movie production crew (who certainly are representatives of your
production) needs to conduct themselves professionally in any
establishment to ensure the possibility of returning some time in
the future to borrow the location again as well as to set a
positive reputation for yourself amongst the locals.
Another helpful hint is if you
plan to use a location such as a store, restaurant or something
that your film production crew can conduct business with, then do it. It'll be a
great gesture and a win-win situation for all.
Do
YOU have a cheap, low budget, do-it-yourself DVX100 tip or trick that
you'd like to contribute?
If so, just email it to
us and we'll post it up!
Thanks
for helping the grass roots grow!
