1. Choose an interesting Location.

You hear it all the time: Location Location Location! It is true. An interesting background for your scenes and interviews can really make your movie stand apart. Take your time to visit many locations. Be determined to find something unusual and interesting.

2. Listen to the Sound.

When location scouting, ALWAYS listen to the ambient noise in the location. Sometimes great locations don't get picked because they are next to a train track, airport, or freeway. Seriously, it won't work. LISTEN at different times of the day to know what to expect.

3. Watch the Light.

Visit the location during the time of day you plan to shoot. Be sure to notice the position of the sun and where there are shadows. Spend some time at the location watching and listening.

4. Location is a Character .

The best movies find ways to introduce the locations as if they were characters themselves with changing moods that reflect the moods of the characters in the story.

5. Beware .

Beaches are beautiful, but VERY difficult for any dialogue because of the sound of the ocean. Generally, use beaches for scenes and shots that don't require dialogue.