For Independent Filmmakers

Welcome

Our Independent Filmmaker pages are loosely organized in the chronological order of legal and business matters you might face throughout your project -- from treatment to final cut. Please help us improve our site. If you notice an error or have a suggestion for a link or additional information, please contact us.

THIS WEB SITE HAS BEEN PREPARED FOR EDUCATIONAL AND INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT LEGAL ADVICE OR A LEGAL OPINION. ONLY YOUR ATTORNEY CAN ADVISE YOU ABOUT WHICH LAWS ARE APPLICABLE TO YOUR SPECIFIC SITUATION.

Location Agreements

A location agreement clarifies all the details concerning your access to the property and ensures that you have permission to take and use the footage you shoot. It also protects you from any lawsuits for claims such as defamation and invasion of privacy.

Many filmmakers say their biggest headaches involving locations can be traced back to the contact person. Be sure you are negotiating with the owner or her/his authorized representative. And remember to bring all appropriate paperwork, including permits, to the shoot.

Note: If you formed an LLC or some other business entity in order to make the film, then the business needs to be listed as the filmmaker.

Please take a moment to read about contracts.

SAMPLE LOCATION AGREEMENT

Next: Permits & Safety