What’s the Best Way to Scout Locations If I Can’t Visit in Person?

Jul 6

Let’s be real—sometimes you don’t have the luxury of walking the space before the shoot. Maybe it’s out of town. Maybe it’s a rental that only opens the day-of. Or maybe the timeline just doesn’t allow it. Still, location impacts everything: the light, the mood, the story, the setup.

So what do you do when you're flying blind?

You prepare smarter—not harder.

Here’s how to location scout without ever stepping foot on set.

1. Ask for a Detailed Video Walkthrough

Before anything else, request a full walk-through video:

Shoot it in natural light and artificial light (you want to see both).
Ask for a slow pan of each room, including ceilings and floors.
Don’t forget bathrooms, entrances, closets, hallways, and windows.
If sound matters (dialogue, live audio), ask for a quick ambient sound recording too.

Tip: Have them shoot it during the same time of day you’ll be filming, so you know what the light actually looks like.

2. Get Still Photos From Multiple Angles

Videos are great, but still images allow you to:

Pinpoint framing options
Make rough shot lists
Spot clutter or visual distractions
Identify power sources, wall color casts, window orientations, etc.

Organize these into folders (e.g., kitchen, backyard, master bedroom) to keep things digestible for your team.

3. Use Google Maps + Street View for Exteriors

If you’re filming near streets, parking, or public spaces:

Google Maps can show you nearby buildings, traffic flow, and potential noise issues.
Use Street View to check things like sidewalk space, trees (for shading), and vehicle access.

Also helpful for gauging neighborhood aesthetics if you’re trying to match a certain vibe.

4. Ask the Right Questions

Details matter. Some things can’t be seen in photos or videos—so ask:

How many outlets are there, and where?
What direction do the windows face?
Is there street noise, construction nearby, or flight paths overhead?
Are there rules about moving furniture, hanging backdrops, using haze, etc.?
Is parking close and free?
Will air conditioning be running during the shoot?

Your questions show your professionalism and help avoid surprises.

5. Plan a Backup Plan

When you can’t scout in person, you need a Plan B—not because you expect failure, but because you plan to lead well.

Backup could mean:

Bringing extra lighting gear in case natural light underdelivers
Packing additional power sources or cords
Planning tighter coverage in case the space is smaller than expected
Adjusting shot lists based on room layout

A backup plan isn’t fear—it’s wisdom.

6. Build a Visual Map for Your Team

Take the photos, walk-throughs, and notes and build a simple visual reference deck (think Google Slides or Notion). Include:

Room layouts
Framing inspo
Equipment placement ideas
Callouts for challenges (e.g., “watch for mirrors here”)

This keeps everyone aligned, even if you're walking in fresh the morning of the shoot.

7. Show Up Earlier Than Normal on the Day-Of

If you couldn’t scout in person, don’t wing it on a tight timeline.
Arrive early. Do a walk-through yourself. Confirm light direction.
Let your team get comfortable in the space before camera rolls.

That extra hour of prep can save you hours of scrambling later.

Final Thought

Scouting a location without being there isn’t ideal—but it’s not impossible.

With clear communication, sharp observation, and a willingness to ask the “small” questions, you can still lead with excellence and deliver work that feels intentional.

The location may be out of reach, but preparedness never is.