Your Essential Los Angeles Video Production Shoot List 2019

Jul 10

Your Essential Los Angeles Video Production Shoot List 2019

Los Angeles, the entertainment capital of the world, offers an unparalleled backdrop for any video production. From its diverse landscapes to iconic landmarks, the city is a filmmaker's dream. However, navigating a shoot in this bustling metropolis requires meticulous planning, especially when it comes to your shoot list. While we're looking back at 2019, the core principles remain timeless for successful LA productions.

Creating a comprehensive shoot list is more than just listing shots; it's a strategic blueprint that ensures efficiency, maximizes your time, and helps you capture every essential moment. For productions in Los Angeles in 2019, specific considerations often came into play due to location, permitting, and the sheer volume of talent and resources available.

Key Elements of a 2019 LA Video Shoot List

Whether you were shooting a commercial, a music video, a short film, or corporate content, these elements were crucial for a seamless production in Los Angeles:

1. Location Scouting & Permitting:

Specific Addresses: Don't just list "Hollywood Hills." Include precise addresses for each shooting location.
Permit Status: For 2019, it was (and still is) vital to confirm all necessary permits from the City of Los Angeles Film Office or relevant authorities (e.g., state parks, private property owners). Include permit numbers and contact info on your list.
Parking & Access: Detail parking availability for crew and vehicles, load-in/load-out points, and any access restrictions.
Lighting & Sound Considerations: Note natural light direction at different times of day, and potential noise sources (e.g., street traffic, airports).

2. Shot Breakdown & Storyboarding:

Scene/Sequence Number: Correlate shots directly to your script or storyboard.
Shot Description: Be specific. "Wide shot of Venice Beach boardwalk with skateboarders." "Close-up of actor's determined expression."
Camera Angle/Movement: Indicate "low angle," "tracking shot," "dolly zoom," etc.
Lens/Focal Length (if specific): e.g., "50mm," "wide-angle."
Required Equipment: List specialized gear needed for each shot (e.g., drone, Steadicam, crane).
Day/Night: Crucial for planning lighting setups.

3. Talent & Crew Management:

Cast Members Involved: List which actors or talent are required for each shot/scene.
Wardrobe/Props: Note specific costumes or props needed for a particular shot.
Crew Needs: Identify if a grip, gaffer, sound mixer, or other specific crew member is essential for a given shot.

4. Logistics & Contingency Planning:

Time Estimates: Allocate realistic time slots for each shot, including setup and breakdown. Los Angeles traffic in 2019 (and always!) could severely impact schedules.
Weather Contingency: Despite LA's sunny reputation, have a backup plan for unexpected rain or extreme heat.
Emergency Contacts: Keep a list of all key crew members, talent, and relevant location contacts readily accessible.
Catering/Craft Services: Plan for meals and snacks, especially for long shoot days.

Why This Matters (Then and Now)

In 2019, as now, the competitive landscape of video production in Los Angeles demanded efficiency and professionalism. A well-crafted shoot list not only keeps your production on track but also communicates your vision clearly to your entire team. It minimizes confusion, reduces costly reshoots, and allows you to focus on the creative execution, rather than logistical hurdles.

While the specific year 2019 is a historical marker, the principles of thorough pre-production and a detailed shoot list remain the bedrock of any successful video project in a dynamic city like Los Angeles. Always be prepared, be precise, and be ready to adapt!