Homeowner’s FAQs: Hosting Your First Shoot

Securing your first booking for your home is exciting, but it’s important to know what to expect and how to prepare for your first shoot…

Confirming your first shoot is exciting, but what happens next? While each shoot has its unique requirements, there are universal steps homeowners can take before and during shoots to leave a positive impression on the crew and encourage future bookings. Below, we address some of the frequently asked questions from homeowners hosting their first shoot and provide advice to help you prepare your property…

How do I get my house shoot-ready?

A clean and decluttered space allows the crew to focus on achieving the perfect shots without distractions. Remove personal items, valuables, and fragile pieces to protect them. Pay special attention to kitchens and bathrooms, as these areas are often used for filming or as break spaces. Wipe down surfaces, stock essentials like soap and paper towels, and leave out fresh towels. Ensuring your home is tidy and well-presented creates a professional and welcoming environment for the cast and crew.

Can I set boundaries for what productions can do in my home?

Absolutely! It’s essential to feel comfortable with how your property is used during a shoot. If you have specific areas you want to keep off-limits or activities such as painting walls, furniture moving, or late hours that you’re not comfortable with, let us know when you register your property. These preferences will be clearly noted and communicated to the production team. While flexibility can make your property more appealing to clients, you are never obligated to agree to requests you’re uncomfortable with. We’ll work with you to ensure all agreements are in place ahead of time, so there are no surprises on the day.

What should I do before the start of the shoot?

Document the condition of your property before filming begins. Take photos of rooms, furniture, and floors to ensure everything is left as you found it. For larger shoots, consider recording utility meter readings at the start and end of the shoot to monitor usage, and charge accordingly. When the location manager arrives, do a walkthrough of the property with them, highlighting any key features, utilities, or instructions they should know. This helps set clear expectations and ensures a smooth start to the day.

What should I do whilst the shoot takes place?

While it’s helpful to be available at the start of the shoot to answer questions and show the crew where things are, they generally work more efficiently with some independence. If possible, leave the property during the shoot to give the team space. If you need to remain on-site, make it clear which rooms are off-limits for your personal use to avoid interruptions.

What happens once the shoot is finished?

At the end of the shoot, arrange a walkthrough with the location manger or a crew member to confirm that everything has been returned to its original state. If you notice any damage or cleanliness issues, notify a crew member immediately, take photos, and inform us so we can address the situation. Clear communication and documentation ensure any concerns are resolved promptly.

Hosting a shoot can be a memorable and rewarding experience, showcasing your home’s unique design and character on camera. While it does require planning and preparation, good communication and a proactive approach can ensure a smooth and successful shoot. At Fresh Locations, we’re here to guide you every step of the journey and are always just an email, text, or phone call away. Register your property with us today and start hosting shoots with confidence.

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