Filming outdoors can be challenging, as there are many different factors that need to be considered, and many different things that can get in the way too. Not only do you have the changing weather to contend with, but also there are various sounds, people trying to walk through your set, and an awful lot of planning and preparation that needs to be done. With that in mind, read on to discover the different factors that need to be taken into account when filming outside.
Choose a location with care
There is only one place to begin, and this is with location scouting. After all, you need to choose a place carefully if you are to shoot the perfect video or film. In order to pick the best location, you must know your script and you need to scout at the right time of the day. It is advisable to check out various locations at the exact time and day of the week you are going to be shooting, as this can have a huge impact. Aside from this, you will need to decide where to set up, examine the elements, and evaluate the area carefully, i.e. determine how long it takes for people to get there and whether there is any mobile phone reception in the area.
Take care of refreshments
It is important to have plenty of water available, as well as healthy snacks. You can’t expect the best results if all of your team are low on energy and feeling fatigued. If there are healthy snacks and refreshments on offer, you can boost productivity and get more achieved throughout the day.
Toilet hire
One thing you cannot ignore is the slight problem that arises when one of your cast or crew needs the loo! Toilet hire in London is a must for any outdoor film set. It is important to choose a company with care, as you will want to ensure they can provide you with the right type of portable toilets for your requirements – i.e. the right size, number of cubicles, and facilities. Take the time to read reviews and choose a company with care
.
Know when sunset and sunrise occurs
It is important to know exactly when sunrise and sunset are going to happen, enabling you to capture some magical shots. And, don’t worry, you won’t need to sit and monitor the sun all morning and evening to determine when this is the case. There are apps available that can tell you when the sun rises and sets in your specific location.
Avoid autofocus
You will find that there are typically a number of objects in your depth of field when you are shooting outside, for example, trees and buildings. This can confuse autofocus. The end result can be that your film ends up focusing on the trees behind your subject, as opposed to focusing on your subject.
Risk assessment
You need to take health and safety very seriously while filming outside, which is why a risk assessment is a must. Not only this, but you need to assess what could get in the way of filming every day, be it noise or distractions from the public. By analysing this from the beginning, you can put measures in place to control this.
Needless to say, there is a lot that needs to be considered when you are filming outside. Not only do you need to plan to perfection to ensure you limit the distractions in terms of noise, weather, and the general public, but you must make certain that refreshments and toilet hire are taken care of too.
