Location scouting is one of the most overlooked steps in video production, especially when filming at active retail locations. A thoughtful scout helps the shoot day run smoothly, keeps staff comfortable, and prevents costly surprises. Here are the key things I focus on when scouting retail spaces for commercial and branded video projects.

Communicate Before You Arrive

Never show up unannounced. Always coordinate your arrival time in advance so the store knows when to expect you. A quick email or call sets the tone, shows professionalism, and avoids disrupting business operations.

Be Respectful to Staff

Retail employees are doing their jobs while you’re planning a shoot around them. Be polite, patient, and appreciative. A friendly introduction and clear explanation of why you’re there goes a long way toward building cooperation on shoot day.

Identify Your Point of Contact

Confirm who your main contact is for the shoot. Make sure you’re aligned on:

Shoot date and time
Areas that will be filmed
Primary objectives of the video
Any restrictions or sensitivities

This helps avoid last-minute changes and keeps everyone on the same page.

Document the Location Thoroughly

Capture photos and short video clips of all relevant areas. This reference material is invaluable during pre-production planning and shot list creation. Focus on:

Primary filming areas
Backgrounds and sightlines
Ceiling height and space constraints

Pay Attention to Light

Windows and natural light sources can dramatically impact your look. Note where sunlight enters the space and, if needed, use a sun-tracking app to determine when light will hit specific areas. This can influence both your shooting schedule and lighting setup.

Plan Shots and Setups

Use the scout to decide where interviews, b-roll, and product shots will live. Identify the best camera angles, lens choices, and movement options ahead of time so shoot day stays efficient.

Think Through Production Logistics

A good scout covers more than visuals. Make note of:

Ingress and egress for crew and gear
Staging areas for equipment
Locations for craft services and crew breaks

If you’ll be using house power, find the breaker box and confirm available circuits to avoid overloads or interruptions.

Why This Matters

For Denver video production, retail shoots often involve tight schedules and active public spaces. A detailed location scout allows a Denver videographer to anticipate challenges, protect the client experience, and deliver polished results without slowing down business operations.

Whether you’re producing a commercial, branded content, or corporate video, thoughtful scouting is one of the most effective ways to elevate your videography and ensure a smooth production from start to finish.

Keys to a Successful Location Scout at Retail Locations