Whether you’re a professional or an amateur photographer/ filmmaker, shooting an outdoors commercial is a great way to get creative with your work. But before you take the plunge and start planning your next shoot, there are some key things to consider.
Here are some tips on what to know before shooting an outdoors commercial:
1. Get Permission – Before you even begin scouting for locations, make sure that you have permission from the appropriate parties to shoot in public spaces. Your local government may require a filming permit if you plan on using public land for your commercial; be sure to check if this applies and acquire any necessary paperwork beforehand.
2. Plan Ahead – As with any outdoor shoot, it’s important to plan ahead. A lot of things can be unpredictable, so make sure you have a backup plan if your original location becomes unusable due to bad weather or any other factors. Be sure to factor these things into your timeline.
3. Natural Light – When shooting outdoors, it’s important to remember the weather. Natural light is often unpredictable, so make sure to plan for different lighting scenarios. Also, be aware of time of day when planning your shoot. The direction of the sun and time of day can affect the angle of your shots, shadows, and even the color tones in your images. Be mindful of where the light is coming from and plan accordingly to get the best results for your shoot.
4. Have the Right Gear – Having the right gear is essential for any outdoor shoot. Make sure to bring along protection for your equipment such as waterproof cases and covers in case of inclement weather or water splashes from nearby bodies of water. Additionally, tripods are often necessary when shooting outdoors; having a good quality one that’s stable and capable of withstanding varying terrains and wind gusts will ensure smooth shots every time.
5. Scout the Location – A great way to ensure a successful shoot is to scout out the location beforehand. This will give you an idea of what kind of shots you can get and any potential obstacles or challenges that may arise. You’ll also be able to plan for the best angles and how to utilize natural lighting if needed. Do some research before picking a location for your outdoor commercial shoot. Look at weather patterns, safety concerns, permits needed, nearby services (such as bathrooms!), parking availability, etc. Also consider if there are any restrictions on noise levels or equipment used in certain areas that could disrupt your production schedule.
6. Safety First – Last but not least, make sure your safety is top priority when shooting outdoors. Be aware of your surroundings and account for wildlife that may be present in the area; also use proper insulation when working with large lighting equipment or electrical cords near water sources. Above all else, know your limits.
7. Bring along essentials such as snacks, water bottles, and sunscreen for yourself and anyone else involved in the project. Additionally, make sure you have a first aid kit on hand in case of any injuries or accidents during filming.
By keeping these tips in mind before beginning your next outdoor commercial shoot, you can rest assured that you’ll be better prepared and equipped to handle whatever Mother Nature throws at you! With proper planning and preparation, your outdoor shoot is sure to be a success!
Work With an Experienced Production Partner
Having an experienced media or video production team is arguably the most important tip on how to get the best production in Las Vegas or anywhere else, for that matter.
Working with an experienced production partner offers a variety of benefits. Not only can they provide high-quality results, but they also possess the necessary skills and experience to handle any complexity that comes up during the project. By working with an experienced partner, you will benefit from their expertise and resources like: video editing, audio editing and visual effects, in order to get the most out of your project.
At Smoke and Mirrors Production, we make TV commercials that get results in Vegas. Visit our website or call us today at (702) 986-0140. We’ll be glad to help you create the perfect commercial that showcases exactly what your business is about.