Why a studio recce is important
Before locking in a shoot date, there’s one crucial step that can make or break your production: the studio recce.
Done right, a solid recce lays the groundwork for your current shoot and for future productions too. Once you’re familiar with what a studio can offer and how it operates, planning becomes faster, smoother, and more efficient.
Think of it as a practical test run: your chance to explore the space, ask key questions, spot potential challenges, and start planning with the physical environment in mind.
BENEFITS OF STUDIO RECCE
TIME AND COST SAVINGS
One primary advantage of a proper studio recce is identifying logistical issues like tricky access points, sound limitations, or insufficient space, before they become expensive problems. Spotting these early gives your team time to plan around them and adapt.
MAKE THE MOST OF IN-HOUSE RESOURCES
Studios often have more to offer than meets the eye. During your recce, ask about equipment available for in-house hire. Many studios stock a range of lighting, grip, and equipment at rates lower than external suppliers. Just because you don’t see something in the studio doesn’t mean it’s not available, it might be tucked away in a kit room, or the studio might be able to source it quickly through trusted partnerships.
Pro tip: Ask the studio manager for a full kit list or rental catalogue. Sharing this with relevant crew departments can streamline planning and reduce unnecessary external rentals.
BUILDING A RELATIONSHIP WITH THE STUDIO MANAGER
A recce is also a great opportunity to build a working relationship with the Studio Manager (in our case, Mira), who can offer insight, support, and solutions during planning.
ADDRESS LIGHTING AND SOUND CHALLENGES EARLY
Lighting and sound are pivotal to a successful shoot. Not just in terms of gear, but how the space supports your production. Catching issues like echo, ambient noise, or limited rigging points early gives you time to adjust your setup or find a more suitable location without compromising quality on the day.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A STUDIO RECCE
STUDIO SPACE
Make sure the studio can comfortably fit your cast, crew, and equipment. Think about the layout and the flow of your shoot. A roomy studio allows for smoother lighting and camera setups and reduces the risk of errors or slowdowns during filming.
ACCESSIBILITY AND PARKING
Check how easy it is to load in gear. Look at parking availability, proximity to the studio floor, and how equipment will be moved in and out. Poor access can waste time and energy on shoot day.
TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS
Confirm the studio meets your technical needs: Is there enough power for your lights? Are there any sound restrictions? Are there any lighting limitations? The more you know now, the fewer compromises you'll make later.
SURROUNDING ENVIRONMENT
Evaluating the surroundings is crucial to ensuring they align with the director's vision. Confirm that the area complements the storyboard's look and feel, maintaining audience immersion.
MORE TIPS TO MAKE THE MOST OUT OF YOUR STUDIO RECCE
Bring (or brief) the right people: If your shoot requires technical setups like custom rigs, set builds, or intricate camera moves, bring the relevant crew members along. A gaffer, art director, or camera operator can spot potential issues and ask the right technical questions on the spot.
If they can’t join, speak with them beforehand and bring a list of their requirements. Ask on their behalf: What are the power capabilities? Is rigging possible from the ceiling? Can the walls be painted or dressed? This way, you're still gathering the insights they need, even in their absence.
Ask About Modifications: Some studios are flexible with set dressing or minor alterations. Can walls be painted or false walls constructed? Always check first.
Crew Comfort & Connectivity: Check for reliable Wi-Fi, toilets, kitchenettes, makeup and wardrobe areas. Comfortable, connected crews are more productive, especially on long shoot days.
Studio Staff Availability: Understand how hands-on the in-house team is. Do they offer on-site technical support or a studio assistant? This can make a big difference during tight shoot schedules.
Health & Safety Briefing: Ask about fire exits, first aid, and general H&S policies. Some studios require briefings or inductions before use.
Ask About Nearby Amenities: Especially for longer shoot days. What’s nearby for catering, coffee runs, or hardware store emergencies?
CONCLUSION
In summary, the studio recce process is integral to the pre-production phase of filmmaking. It’s a collaborative, problem-solving mission that can establish the foundation for a successful shoot. The more detailed your recce, the fewer surprises on the day. Come prepared, take notes, and always document the visit with photos to share with your team.
In short, a little prep now goes a long way later.