The Process
Location was the biggest obstacle for this project. We scheduled the project to film in Los Angeles. We had permits secured, a location on hold, and travel arranged. A week before our shoot date, our client received the green light to film at Monticello, the home of US President Thomas Jefferson. To film against this amazing backdrop was exciting. As a result, it required nimble producing to get everything in order. We had to book lodging and travel, and hire local crew and on-camera talent.
Filming on location isn’t without its challenges. Evenmoreso, filming on a historic site. We had an ambitious shot list to capture in one day. So, our whole staff traveled to Charlottesville, VA. We felt that the camaraderie of our staff would be beneficial. For instance, our experience working together would help streamline the project.
Working with an artist who has a busy schedule, we only had one day to film in late January. During pre-production, we sourced current photos of Monticello via social media. This somewhat real-time glimpse allowed for us to develop our game plan. Upon arrival, we had a scheduled scout of the property to further hone our schedule. Unfortunately, there were many challenges including the frigid mid-winter weather in Virginia. Furthermore, the location was open to the public and we had limited access. Despite the obstacles and change in plans, we wrapped up feeling content that we could successfully pull together a video we were proud of.
