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How to become a location manager
The role of a location manager involves turning a script into an
on-screen reality by finding various shooting locations and
securing filming permits. If you're passionate about working in
film or television production, becoming a location manager can
be a lucrative, esteemed and rewarding career path. Before
deciding whether this role is suitable for you, it's important
to understand what the job entails and what its requirements are
Key skills for succeeding as a location manager include
excellent organisation and planning capabilities, strong
communication skills, the ability to adapt and solve problems
efficiently, and leadership qualities.
Finding and securing filming locations
The most important responsibility of a location manager is
ensuring that the production has everything it requires to shoot
a scene. This involves finding and booking on-site locations,
determining the logistical needs of the shoot, obtaining permits
and representing the production team to external stakeholders
and the public. Because of these high-level responsibilities, a
location manager is a senior position.
Negotiating budgets and fees: A location manager abides by the
production team's budget to hire the people they require for
their teams, such as assistant managers, unit managers, runners
and location assistants. They also work closely with line
producers to calculate location costs and coordinate schedules
and budgets for the shoot. This includes negotiating fees, such
as transportation, storage and parking fees, with different
locations and property owners.
If this role appeals to you, you may wonder how to become a
location manager. While there are several different ways to
become a location manager, the following are the most important
steps to take:
1. Obtain a relevant degree
Although you can become a location manager based on your prior
experience in the television and film industry, obtaining a
relevant degree can increase your chances of securing the role.
There are several degrees that are relevant to the career but
pursuing one that focuses on media or film is beneficial. For
example, you may earn a degree in film and television,
broadcasting production, film and television production or
communication and media studies. Before choosing a degree,
discuss your options with a career counsellor to determine which
is the most appropriate for a career in location management.
2. Gain practical experience
A location manager develops their skill set by gaining
invaluable experience on-site, so it's important to involve
yourself in local productions. There are various ways to gain
experience. For example, you can apply for internships for
entry-level positions such as location scout, production
assistant or runner. You could also do voluntary work or find a
mentorship. These hands-on experiences can introduce you to the
requirements of the industry and prepare you for the complexity
of a location manager role in the future.
3. Develop a professional network
Learning to network and grow your professional circle of
contacts early can help you become a location manager, as it
allows you to build your reputation in the industry. There are
several ways to do this. For example, you might attend
professional conferences and events or relocate to major hubs of
television and film production. Learning how to build
professional connections and communicate with directors and
writers can help you get work and grow your presence in the
industry.
4. Develop a professional portfolio
Compiling your educational projects and previous jobs into a
professional portfolio can prepare you for new jobs or
networking opportunities by giving prospective employers an idea
of your experience. Your portfolio can include the projects
you've worked on, their outcomes and any professional references
from writers or directors you've received. Presenting these to
new contacts or employers allows them to immediately understand
the depth of your knowledge in the industry and help you secure
future work.
5. Apply for location manager roles
Once you have the appropriate education and experience, you can
start applying for location manager jobs. Many types of projects
require location managers, including independent productions,
community film or television productions, large-scale film
production companies, educational production companies and
advertising production firms. You can search for jobs through
different online platforms. Start by offering freelance work or
getting in touch with your professional contacts and enquiring
about any roles they know of.
Because location managers have many responsibilities, their
daily routine may vary drastically. The following are some of
the most common and important duties of a location manager:
Hiring a location team: A location manager is responsible for
hiring a team that can ensure the success of a shoot. Team
members can include location assistants, runners and even
clean-up crews.
Managing the shoot site: Location managers deal with any issues
that arise during the shoot. This can include problems relating
to daily logistics, such as organising the team's schedule, or
communicating with local authorities regarding permits.
Managing site clean-up: After the shoot is complete, the
location manager ensures that the site returns to its
pre-production state. This is especially important when filming
in natural locations where environmental permits and legislation
may require you to enforce specific clean-up procedures.
Every film and TV show has to shoot somewhere, so the role of
location manager is one of the most integral parts of getting a
story from script to screen. As the supervisor of the scouting
crew, the location manager is largely responsible for locking
down a production’s various locales—from securing permits to
addressing parking logistics.
Becoming a location manager is a journey of passion, creativity,
and meticulous planning. It’s a role for those who see beyond
the ordinary, who can envision a story’s setting as vividly as
its characters. If you have the vision and the drive, the path
to becoming a location manager is yours to forge.
Are you thinking about becoming a location manager and want to learn more about this job?. Get our practical training guide. If you are someone who loves movies and has a passion for finding the perfect location to shoot a scene, Becoming a film location manager requires a combination of education, experience, and networking. In this comprehensive guide, we will take a closer look at what it takes to become a successful film location manager, including the skills you need, the education and training required, and the steps you can take to get started. Our training program provides a comprehensive overview of the film and television industry, including location management, and is taught by industry professionals.
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