Q & A – Behind the Scenes with Oliver Laurenson-Gore, Location Manager
29th August 2024, by Gina Leon
In the world of Film and Tv production, Location Managers play a pivotal role in bringing the director’s vision to life. They are the unsung heroes who scout, secure, and manage the perfect settings that become the backdrop for unforgettable stories. We had the chance to speak with Oliver Laurenson-Gore, a seasoned Location Manager and trainer at All Spring Media.
Oliver has been involved in a variety of projects, ranging from indie films to major blockbusters, including titles such as The Franchise, I Swear, After Life with Ricky Gervais, and The Burning Girls with Samantha Morton, and he has also collaborated closely with Director Kirk Jones. His passion for the craft is evident in every aspect of his work and now he is helping us to delve into the intricacies of this role and gain insights from his years of experience in the industry.
Here’s what he had to share.
Q. What skills and qualifications are needed for the role?
A. No specific skills or qualifications really needed. People come from all backgrounds and experience from arts and events (like I did) to logistics and veterans from the armed forces. You need to have an understanding of design and photography and be able to work to a brief, be able to listen, take notes from other departments and sometimes sit back and listen but also suggest ways of supporting. It is necessary to have good planning and logistics, understanding of maps, paperwork, communication and teamwork skills. I have purchased my own property and worked setting up a studio, so knowledge about maintenance and random subjects like drainage are important life skills. The best advice I ever got from someone was, “dress for whom you are about to meet”, you need to be personable and take interest in everyone.
Q. What are the key responsibilities as a LM?
A. As a Location Manager, you are the link between the general public and production. The location manager comes on board in the early stages of production to basically scout, prep and set up, manage the shoot, and tear down. We have a direct link with owners (private and commercial), film offices and other agencies.
Q. What are the biggest challenges a location manager faces during production?
A. Schedule changes – they always happen, particularly in the smaller jobs. This is mainly due to cast and location availability. Last-minute requests – you always need to be prepared as much as possible in a location and get to know the area and owners well.
Q. What steps are involved in ensuring a location is returned to its original condition after filming?
A. Taking photos of everything and the surroundings of the location (even more than you might anticipate). This goes from the conditions of the building’s fabric to all the items in the location. I expect my team and myself to always be covered, as often other departments will not take their own photos. I always ask and expect intentions from most departments in advance. This is normally given after the technical recce.
Q: How does All Spring Media support aspiring Location Managers?
A. At All Spring Media, we have prepared a new Skills Bootcamp that covers many important aspects of Location Management. It is designed to help you to improve your knowledge, skills like negotiation and communication, that are vital in this role; and industry connections needed to succeed. Plus, our network of industry professionals provides invaluable opportunities for mentorship and career growth.
Thank you, Oliver Laurenson-Gore, for sharing your valuable insights with us.
If you’re ready to take the next step toward becoming a Location Manager, we invite you to apply to our new Skills Bootcamp at All Spring Media and don’t miss out on the opportunity to learn from industry experts like Oliver and get ready for your next big step.
Find out further details here: https://www.allspringmedia.co.uk/projects-and-training/
