Choosing the Right Location for Your Video Shoot

When most people think about making a video, they imagine cameras, scripts and lighting kits. But one factor quietly shapes the entire production from start to finish: the location.

Get it right, and your video feels natural, professional and easy to watch. Get it wrong, and you’ll spend the whole day fighting against noisy roads, bad lighting or cramped corners.

Here are some tips to help you pick the right spot for your next shoot:

Keep Your Story Front and Centre

Think about the impression you want your audience to walk away with, and let that guide your choice.

The best location is the one that supports your message.

• Are you telling a client success story? Film it in their office, where the results are tangible.

• Recording a brand message? Use a space that reflects your culture — clean, modern, creative or corporate.

• Shooting an explainer? A neutral backdrop may be better to avoid distractions.

Indoor vs Outdoor: Weighing It Up

Both options can work beautifully — but for different reasons...

Indoors

✅ Predictable lighting and sound

✅ Easier to brand the space

❌ Can feel staged if not styled carefully

Outdoors

✅ Adds energy and realism

✅ Great for showing buildings, people, or community in context

❌ Weather, wind, and background noise can ruin takes

Tip: If you go outdoors, scout the spot at the time of day you’ll be filming to see how the light and sound behave.

Light Is Everything

Video is essentially 'painting with light.' Too much sun or too many overhead fluorescents can cause big problems.

Where possible, choose locations where you can control the light. If that’s not possible, bring the right gear (diffusers, blackout curtains, LED lights) so you don’t spend the day adjusting.

Think About the Soundtrack You Don’t Want

You won’t notice how loud a fridge, road or air con unit is until you hit record. Always listen carefully on your location scout. If you can hear it, the camera will too!

A quiet location saves hours in editing and means your message comes through clearly.

Plan for Space and Comfort

Squeezing a film crew into a tiny room is no one’s idea of fun. You’ll need enough space for:

Cameras and tripods

Lighting rigs

A place for talent to relax off-camera

A comfortable set makes for relaxed, confident performances.

Permissions, Permits and Practicalities

Don’t assume you can film anywhere. Public spaces, private offices and even some outdoor spots need permission. Get this sorted early to avoid last-minute stress.

Depth and Variety Go a Long Way

Flat walls behind your subject make for flat-looking video. Depth — hallways, windows, layered scenery — adds interest and makes your shots more professional. Even small variations within the same location can give you multiple looks without having to move the whole crew.

Final Word

The right filming location does more than look good — it makes the entire production smoother and helps your story land with impact. If you’re unsure where to start, don’t worry. Part of our job is to advise, scout, and set up the best possible environment for your shoot. After all, when your story matters, the backdrop should do it justice.