Location agencies are specialized businesses that act as intermediaries, connecting properties and locations with clients who need them for various purposes. These clients primarily come from the film, television, advertising, photography, and event industries.

What do Location Agencies do?

Location agencies perform a crucial role in the production and event planning ecosystem by:

• Curating a Location Library/Database: Their primary asset is an extensive portfolio of properties and sites. This can include a diverse range of options such as:
  • Residential homes (modern, traditional, historic, luxury)
  • Commercial spaces (offices, retail stores, warehouses, factories)
  • Public spaces (parks, streets, squares, landmarks)
  • Unique venues (art galleries, museums, churches, derelict buildings)
  • Natural landscapes (beaches, mountains, deserts, forests, lakes)
  • Specialized sets/studios (green screen studios, sound stages)
• Matching Locations to Client Needs: They work closely with clients (e.g., film directors, photographers, event planners, ad agencies) to understand their specific requirements, creative vision, budget, and logistical constraints. They then present a curated selection of suitable locations from their database.
• Location Scouting (often in conjunction with a Location Manager/Scout): While the agency manages the database and client liaison, they often work with or employ professional location scouts who physically search for and identify new, unique, or specific locations that fit a project's brief. This can involve extensive research, photography, and site visits.
• Permissions and Permitting: A critical service is navigating the complex process of securing necessary permits and permissions from property owners, local authorities, film commissions, and other relevant bodies. This ensures legal compliance and a smooth shooting or event process.
• Logistical Coordination: They may assist with logistical aspects like access, parking, power requirements, security, and ensuring the location is prepared before and restored after the shoot or event.
• Risk Management: They often advise on potential risks associated with a location (e.g., noise restrictions, public access, safety concerns) and help mitigate them, including ensuring proper insurance coverage is in place.

When looking for a location agency in India, it's advisable to specify the type of project (film, commercial, event) and the desired region or aesthetic to find the most suitable partner.