REGISTER YOUR LOCATION
REGISTERING YOUR LOCATION WITH THE POCONOS FILM OFFICE GIVES FILMMAKERS AND PRODUCTION COMPANIES THE ABILITY TO CONSIDER YOUR PROPERTY/LOCATION FOR THEIR FILM AND TELEVISION PROJECTS.
OUR LOCATION DATABASE: Search our database for more locations registered with the Poconos Film Office.
This includes your location registration with the Poconos Film Office, plus, you will receive 25 film location photos for your location and licensing rights to use them for distribution. Please note that a photo release form will be required for approval once the photos are taken.
Approved Image Requirements:
.jpg or .png image files only
Image should have a minimum size width of 900px
Maximum file size for each photo: 15.00MB
Maximum number of photos: 25
This includes your location registration with the Poconos Film Office, 25 film location photos for your location and licensing rights to use them for distribution, and your location listed on the Poconos Film Office Featured Locations webpage.
Please note that a photo release form will be required for approval once the photos are taken.
Approved Image Requirements:
.jpg or .png image files only
Image should have a minimum size width of 900px
Maximum file size for each photo: 15.00MB
Maximum number of photos: 25
HAVING A PRODUCTION FILM ON YOUR LOCATION/PROPERTY AND SEEING IT ON TELEVISION OR IN A MOVIE CAN BE EXTREMELY EXCITING, BUT THERE ARE A FEW THINGS THAT YOU SHOULD KEEP IN MIND:
WHO IS KNOCKING ON MY DOOR?
The individual at your door is likely a location scout, who may work directly for the production company or as a freelancer tasked with locating and identifying potential filming sites. They should possess some form of identification to verify their role. They may request permission to photograph the interior of their property. For verification of their legitimacy, we encourage you to contact our office. Typically, a production will register their project with us and we will coordinate a time for them to meet at your location. It is advisable to obtain their contact information and request their business card. Although new film projects may not have business cards ready, many location scouts typically carry some sort of credentials that they can provide.
WHAT DO THEY DO WITH THE PHOTOS AFTER THEY LEAVE?
Typically, a location scout will collect photographs of various potential sites. These photos are then presented to production designers, art directors, and the film director of the shoot. They will then shortlist properties they’re considering. Please note that you may not receive immediate feedback, so you’re welcome to contact the scout for updates.
Should they decide to revisit, they typically will bring the production designer or director and will coordinate a suitable time with you. If your property is deemed a good fit, they will make an offer that will include a location agreement.
The production process may require a day or more for their initial load-in and set-up, allowing the crew to prepare the equipment and the site for filming. Following a load in, are the shoot days and when filming actually occurs. The final phase is a load-out, where the equipment is removed and the property is restored to its original condition.
Compensation is typically provided for each phase of this process.
THE ABOVE SOUNDS ALL WELL AND GOOD, BUT I AM STILL HESITANT ON ALLOWING RANDOM PEOPLE ON MY PROPERTY. HOW DO I KNOW IF IT’S LEGITIMATE?
BEFORE MOVING FORWARD WITH ANYTHING, DO ADDITIONAL RESEARCH.
Make sure the company is reputable. Contact your local or state film office with any inquiries about the film company to find out if they are familiar with the company, the location scout, or the location manager. Additionally, research the company online. You should never have to pay any fees to the film company, location scout, or location manage using your property.
Don’t hesitate to request for references. Feel free to ask for the producer or director’s professional credits, a contact at the parent company, or proof of insurance.
Seek reference from property owners who have previously dealt with the company. A few questions to ask can include:
Did the film company fulfill their agreements?
Was there any property damage?
Were any necessary repairs made promptly?
Before allowing filming on your property, consider how it might affect your neighbors, tenants, or customers. Safety should also be a key factor in your decision-making process.
YAY! EVERYTHING IS LEGIT AND WANT TO MOVE FORWARD WITH MY LOCATION!
The Location Scout or Location Manager that is hired by the Film Company will be your main point of contact. They also, will let you know that they will be your main point of contact. Be sure to exchange phone numbers so you can contact them if there are additional questions or concerns after your initial contact.
Be sure to walk with the Location Scout / Location Manager through your property. If there are areas you do not wish to be filmed or have the film crew access, make sure you state that.
Find out how long the film shoot at your location will last (this would include load-in to load-out).
Make sure that you are comfortable with the subject matter of what is being filmed on your property and your property’s role in the overall picture.
ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS YOU CAN ASK
Will your living expenses be paid for for the duration of filming?
How many people will be allowed “on set”?
Where will the film crew and cast eat their meals?
How will you, the property owner, be accommodated during filming?
Where will equipment/items be stored, and who will be responsible for cleaning up the property once filming on location is completed?