Location scouting in Wisconsin

CAMBRIDGE, Wis. (WMTV) -- For filmmakers, there's many pieces that must be put together to create a film. From casting to lighting, art direction to promotion, it can be an overwhelming task for a small crew on a limited budget - and setting the scene requires access to locations.

Film Wisconsin and Cambridge-area sponsors held a "boot camp" for local filmmakers who need help setting the scene. The Cambridge workshop was led by professional location scout Nick Langhoff, who has secured movie and commercial locations in a cross-country career.

"A lot of times, I get a call from L.A. or New York, and they're looking for a certain location," Langhoff says. "Could be a farm. Could be a football field. Could be a general location where I'm just trying to find a woods or something."

While Langhoff has made scouting a full-time gig, many independent filmmakers have to take it on as part of their job - and don't know where to start.

Langhoff offered guidance at today's workshop at question-and-answer sessions where guests asked questions about securing permission, working with local residents, and what to look for when scouting a great spot. He shared personal experiences in Wisconsin and beyond as lunch and coffee were served.

Guests were also grouped together and sent out to chosen locations, including a schoolhouse, a farm and a local winery. They toured the locations, discussing how they could be used for filming, then brought back their findings to present to the group before an optional networking event at Plow Restaurant.

Film Wisconsin, Cambridge Area Chamber of Commerce, Keystone Grill, Plow Restaurant and LMS Development sponsored the event.