Which of the following best describes a Location Survey?

• A. A lighting plan only.
• B. An editing workflow.
• C. An assessment of a proposed shoot location including placement of cameras and lights, available power supply, equipment necessary, and accommodations needed for the talent and crew.
• D. A music licensing process.

Answer: (C)

A Location Survey is a pre-production assessment of a proposed shoot location that maps out how the space will be used on set. It covers where cameras and lights will go, what electrical power is available and how to source it, what equipment is needed to capture the scene, and what facilities or accommodations are required for talent and crew. This planning helps the DP, gaffer, and production team anticipate space constraints, plan camera angles and lighting rigs, arrange power distribution and backups, gather the right gear, and ensure safe, smooth access for people and gear. It’s broader than a lighting plan (which focuses only on lighting design), different from an editing workflow (a post-production process), and separate from music licensing (rights clearance).