The Realities of Filming at a Business Location

Quick Tips for Expecting the Unexpected

Filming corporate videos on location can lead to a chaotic day at the office—sometimes literally. Often, you are dealing with offices or stores during business hours. Customers are walking in, employees are going back and forth to stock products or access equipment, a loud meeting may suddenly start in the office right next to the one you thought was quiet, and people may constantly ask you to move your videography equipment. A chaotic scene like this can be overwhelming, but it’s important to remember that business owners cannot afford to shut down operations for your film shoot. In many situations, it’s not feasible to film after closing hours either, so you must adapt to the situation.

Here are a few things you can do to succeed in these tricky filming situations:

Prepare for the Worst

The best way to prepare for these scenarios is to anticipate chaos at your client’s place of business. Talk to your client and find out as much as you can beforehand. If time allows, do a site visit and scout the location. Show up early and have plans B and C ready in case things go awry.

Pick Your Spots and Take Advantage of the Situation

Many busy stores will have brief quiet moments throughout the day, so be patient and pick your spots for capturing interview clips. In the meantime, view your crowded business location as an opportunity to capture some great b-roll. A busy store is good for visuals, and capturing this energy on camera can highlight the organization’s success. Just be sure to obtain signed release forms from any customers you film.

Speed and Flexibility

Conditions can change at a moment’s notice when filming at a business location. It’s crucial to have an equipment setup that doesn’t slow you down with unnecessary lens swaps or balancing gimbals. Aim to switch from filming b-roll to interviews without delay by using a versatile setup. A wide-angle to portrait zoom lens will save you time by eliminating lens swaps. Proficiency with handheld shots allows you to work quickly and creatively. A battery-operated portable light source enables faster light setups. Flexibility is essential to accommodate your client’s schedule. Even with thorough planning, unforeseen circumstances may arise, so budget extra time for adjustments and be prepared to change your filming order.

Patience

Patience is your most valuable asset during production. If you become frustrated by having to move your equipment and navigate around people, remember that you are the one in their way. People are trying to work, shop, collaborate with coworkers, and earn a living, so be patient. Allow ample time for filming days and account for it in your budget negotiations. A “half-day shoot” at a business can easily extend by several hours under these conditions. Set yourself up for success by treating people with kindness and understanding while filming.