As an Assistant Director sometimes I have to wear many hats especially when working on low budget projects where there is no location manager. When I scout locations I have a list of questions I ask at each site that help me figure out the logistical needs before shooting so I know all my bases are covered.
You can download the list as a .pdf HERE.
Name of Location:
Prep (dates) – Can you get in early to do art prep or pre-rig lighting?
Shoot (dates) – When are the actual dates? Do you have a 12 or 14 hour window?
Wrap (dates
Address
Contact Person
Contact Cell Phone
Contact Email
Restroom Situation – Will there be restrooms? Do we need to rent porta-potties or a Honeywagon?
Cast/Crew Parking – Is there enough free parking? If not what are the options? Do we need to shuttle crew? What about a parking lot nearby?
WIFI Code – Is there wifi? Do you need to rent wifi?
Hair/Makeup Area – Is there a room with enough light to do HMU? If the room is dark do we need to run a light from the G&E department? Is the situation so bleak its worth renting a Honeywagon or RV?
Wardrobe Area / Actor Changing Rooms – Where can wardrobe setup? Is there a place for actors to change? Are restrooms the last resort for changing?
Camera Staging Area – Is there a safe place to leave equipment overnight? Will there be security?
DIT Setup
Production Office – Where can the UPM, 2nd AD and Producers setup their mobile office? They will need a place where they can make calls and be somewhat noisy.
Crafty – Where is the closest we can setup crafty near SET that will not be in the way?
Catering – Where is the best place to setup catering? Are we setting up tables/chairs or using an existing eating area?
Truck Parking – Where are we parking the G&E Truck, Generator etc?
Special Notes – etc…
