When you’re on location in a city like London, there’s a lot to juggle. Here’s what I’ve learned from filming for brands and personalities—from Britain’s Got Talent to corporate shoots for names like Network Rail and Laughton Scott. Use these insights to streamline your shoot day and avoid common pitfalls.
Scout Your Location Early
A location scout helps you lock in the creative and logistical elements early, so there are no surprises.
⚡Pro Tip⚡
Look for natural lighting and angles to save on extra equipment costs. It’s London—embrace what’s there.
Location Permissions & Filming Rights
Know Your Ground for most public spaces, permission isn’t needed, but some “public” locations do require permits.
⚡Hack⚡
If a location comes with a fee, consider alternatives nearby. Plenty of places in London give you the look without the cost.
Equip Yourself with Insurance
Public Liability & Equipment is essential for both peace of mind and practicality, especially in a busy city.
Recommendation
PolicyBee is reliable and straightforward for videographers and crew.
Set Yourself Up with a Good Crew
A dedicated assistant for gear, talent, and client needs keeps you focused on filming.
London’s bustling—don’t leave equipment unattended. Theft and loss can happen in seconds.
Pre-Brief Your Team
A tight brief helps everyone know their role without interrupting your flow.
Have an assistant handle client questions or ideas throughout the day, letting you stay focused on capturing the best footage.
Client & Crew Management
Communication
London’s fast-paced, and a shoot day flies by. Keep a dedicated person for client questions, talent needs, and handling the gear.
Snacks & Essentials
Even on short shoots, bring quick energy boosters—protein bars, water, and maybe a backup jacket. A little foresight goes a long way.
Plan Your Route
Efficient Travel
London traffic’s no joke. Plan routes between locations and account for the equipment load. Have a bit of budget set aside for a taxi if you’re shifting locations quickly.
Flexible Itinerary: Build in time for transport but be prepared to adapt.
Public Crowds & Filming Challenges
Shooting early morning or late evening helps avoid crowds. Be ready to work around the public without disrupting your footage.
Release Forms: For any public appearances, be ready with model release forms.
Stay Energized—But in the Zone
Plan for Downtime
A solid assistant keeps you in the flow. Have someone remind you to hydrate or take five if needed.
Lunch on the Go
Dry snacks and planned break spots keep the team going. Even a quick 15 minutes can make a difference.
Simplify & Keep the Energy Positive
Filming outside a studio means you’re making fast decisions. Keep setups minimal but effective.
Positive Team Vibes
Filming is a team effort—check in with the crew post-shoot, share successes, and keep connections strong.
The Bottom Line
A smooth, high-quality shoot in a place like London comes down to planning, efficiency, and a few smart hacks to keep things moving. It’s a busy city, but with the right prep, you’ll get the footage you need—without the hassle.