What is a Location Manager

A Location Manger is a person hired during pre-production to scout and secure locations to be used during a film shoot. They work very closely with the Director, Producer, and Production Designer in finding the right location that will fit the film’s visual needs.

They need to have a strong imagination when trying to find the perfect places that will satisfy the Director's visualization.

On bigger budgeted films, the Location Manager will hire scouts to find the location that will be suitable for the days of shooting. In addition, what will be taken into consideration are parking, and facilities for cast and the production team.

An excellent Location Manager will create a photographic storyboard of various and mulitple locations to be used during filming, and the Director will determine which can be used best.

Once a location has been finalized, it is up to the Manager to negotiate with the location owners regarding rental fees dates, and also talk to immediate neighbors regarding filming. And to obtain the proper fire, police, municipality permits, and any other city permits that as needed.

Usually the locations will need to be locked down approximately 1 day prior, for set dressing, and one day following for clean up / or strike the set. They must put up signs in the area of the location stating the days that the area will be locked down, and also maps to be attached to the daily call sheets.

When all the proper permits have been filed they will hire Location Assistants, who will go to the location and put cones down to block off the proper areas, that will be used by the production.

They are also the public relations person for that location that the community will speak with in case of any issues with the use of the locations, and responsible for crew safety during filming.

The Location Manager will be the first person and the last person the location owner sees.

No qualifications are need for this job, but industry experience is a must, preferably experience as an Assistant Locations Manager