Being a great shoot location host isn’t just about having a beautiful space (although that is a must); it is about creating an environment where creatives can feel welcome and work efficiently.
To have a successful shoot location, the home owner needs to be prepared and set up for success, and that’s why we love working with Styled Home Studios. They share our values, prioritising client-to-host relationships and smooth communication to make everything as simple and as stress free as possible.
If you’re welcoming a crew for the first time or you’re already a seasoned Host, this quick guide will help you with insights, shoot etiquette and general tips to help every shoot day run smoothly.
Being a great host means having a home that’s camera-ready from the moment the crew arrives (just like it is in the photographs on your listing).
A well-prepped home increases the chance of repeat bookings, helps production run smoother and just generally gives crews confidence. At Location Creation and Styled Home Studios, this trust and confidence is what we pride ourselves on.
Download Location Creation’s full shoot checklist here
Before the crew arrives:
✔ Prepare a tea and coffee station for the crew and make sure essentials are out: Spare loo roll, towels, cleaning cloths, and bin bags.
✔ Display your Wi-Fi code and house rules near your coffee station
✔ Use doormats (inside and out) to reduce dirt and damage
✔ Organise pets, children, and personal schedules so you’re not in the way of crew and filming spaces.
Tip: Set up “no entry” signage for ALL rooms that are off-limits to avoid confusion on shoot day.
Being proactive the day before a shoot saves time and reduces stress on the day.
Making a great first impression is simple yet impactful:
✔ Greet the crew warmly and introduce yourself.
✔ Provide a quick tour of the active spaces and show them where the toilets and refreshments are located.
✔ Clarify your house rules to the production manager and answer any early questions.
✔ Stay available but not intrusive – give your name and mobile number to the person in charge.
Once you’ve done this, leave the crew to work their magic. They are professionals with schedules to keep and an unobstructed environment is key.
This balance helps productions feel at ease and view your home as a place they can return to again and again.
At the end of the shoot:
✔ Conduct a house walkthrough with the crew to check for any damage or items moved.
✔ Take photos or notes of any issues. Then notify people straight away.
✔ Overtime filming needs to be recorded and signed off on the day. Anything over thirty minutes we would consider.
With these qualities, your home won’t just be a beautiful backdrop for your favourite brand’s next campaign – it will be a preferred location in the minds of creatives and producers alike. Because your shoot location is well managed and listed on Styled Home Studios it is set up for success.
Do you want support getting set up or support with managing your location? Location Creation can help. Gillian and her wonderful team are a one-stop consultancy with the knowledge, connections and expertise to set up your home as a successful film or photoshoot location.
Email hello@locationcreation.co.uk for more information.
And if you’re interested in becoming a Styled Home Studios Host you can find out more and apply to join us here.
Back
