Planning: Filming Locations

Choosing the right location is a crucial part of creating any type of media production. If the location is too loud, busy or doesn't have the right lighting, then the production will not have the intended effect on the audience. Because of this, I have to be very sure that my chosen location is the right one. When choosing, I will take these factors into account:

• Suitability- If, for example, the location is very light and full of bright colours, then it will not have the intended effect on my target audience, and will not illustrate the meaning of the song. Also, if the location is too busy, then it will be very difficult and awkward to film.
• Availability- The location must be available for me to film in. Obviously, if the location is busy, then I won't be able to film there. To overcome this problem, I will be organised when planning my filming schedule.
• Distance- The locations must be reasonably close for me to film in, due to travel costs and time issues. If it takes a long while to travel to the location, then I will have less time to film and possibly will have to travel on multiple days. Additionally, if I need to get the right lighting or weather when filming, then travelling a long distance may create problems, as the weather can quickly change.

Location 1 - Harvester Forest

The first possible location I have considered is the Harvester Forest. The reason I have chosen this location is because it is quiet, and hardly any people visit it regularly. This is perfect for the narrative part of my music video, as I require an isolated location to amplify the characters loneliness. My main character will be sitting down in the empty field, looking into the distance and lip-syncing with the song.

The only problem I can imagine with this location is that it is near a main road, shown by the screenshot of Google Maps. This means that there might be unplanned noise. However, because I will edit my chosen song over the video, it means that I can mute the diegetic sound.

I think that this location is suitable, as it is in walking distance so timing won't be a problem. It's also rarely busy, so filming will be easy, with little distractions or interruptions. Additionally, because it isn't owned by anyone, I do not have to contact anyone to organise filming times.

Location 2- Zombie Hut, Corby

My second location is the Zombie Hut in Corby. I plan to use this location for the performance shots in my music video. The band will be performing on stage, playing their instruments and the singer will lip-sync to the song.

I think this location is suitable, as the technology there allows me to control the lighting in the room when I film. This means that I can create a suitable mood that amplifies the singers emotions and portrays the meaning of the song. The stage also creates a great setting, as everyone associates stages with performance and music. From my music video research, I found that stages are a common location in rock music videos.

The only problem is that because the Zombie Hut is a popular location, it may be hard to organise a filming schedule when both the location and my chosen actors are available. Also, because of the  performance, I will have to find a way to transport large props like guitar amps and a drum kit.

Location 3- Bedroom

An alternative location for the performance shots of my music video is a bedroom. Although it may not be as convincing as a real stage, it creates a sense of originality and is relatable for small bands who still practise at home. Also, it illustrates the singers emotions, as he is excluding himself from the outside world and is hiding away in his own room.

I think that this location is suitable, as it requires no travelling or transporting props. Also, there will be no issues with availability of the location. The only problem will be controlling the lighting in the bedroom, so I will have to carefully plan what time of day I will film.