The Location Manager finds, secures and supervises locations for a film, TV, or commercial production. Location managers submit permits, negotiate rates, coordinate parking, trash removal, and navigate any required police activity and make sure that both the space and the film production are respected. Thai Location Manager is in charge of a production’s locations, which is a big deal now that more and more film productions are shooting on location versus inside a studio.
Working on set in Thailand, Location Manager collaborate with most often is the 1st Assistant Director because they want the shoot to run smoothly, which can only happen if the location is respected. They also deal with the Production Manager or Film Fixer to coordinate the budget and schedule when space will be rented. All permit responsibility will be shared with the Thailand Film Service Production Manager as well.
Before production begins, Thailand location manager is responsible for:
- Working with the film director and production designer, which involves reading the script, understanding the creative vision, and discussing basic logistics in Thailand;
- Hiring a local Thai team, including a film location scout to find potential sites, an assistant location manager to provide support, and location assistants to handle details;
- Considering the location, which involves negotiating with property owners, securing filming permits, meeting health and safety requirements, and getting insurance coverage;
- Visiting potential sites to evaluate logistics like power access, parking spaces, medical access, and potential disruptions;
- Completing final pre production deals for example hiring security and cleaning staff.
During a film or video production, location manager is responsible for:
- Schedule for the crew with 1AD about involves setting a start time, handing out maps, and making sure everyone knows where to be at any time;
- Handling daily logistics and troubleshooting problems that happen during filming;
- Communicating with neighbors and authorities;
- Wrapping the film location after filming is complete.