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Getting to grips with on-set lingo
If you have a Production coming to film at your space, you may want to brush up on your film set terminology.
On larger sets, crew will communicate via radios or ‘walkie talkies’. Here’s some useful terms we’ve gathered from film sets across Canada!
10-4: Short for “I understand” or “Copy.”
10-100: Short for “Going to the honey wagon”; a trip to the bathroom.
What’s your 20?: Short for “Where are you?”
Go to 2: All shoot crew radios sit on Channel 1.. if you want to have a side conversation you may ask someone to ‘go to 2’ so not everyone hears you. Specific departments sit on other channels.
Action!: Director’s cue for the actors and/or action to begin.
Apple Box: An apple box is a different sized (quarter, half, full, pancake) wooden boxes used for a variety of purposes.
Back to First Marks: Instruction for actors/extras to return to their first positions; also referred to as “Ones.”
Background: Cue for extras and any other background action elements to begin their action.
Back Lot: A back lot is a piece of land on a studio’s property where filmmakers can shoot outside scenes in an enclosed area. This differs from on-location shoots where the team goes to an actual part of the city to film. For example, many scenes in Back to the Future were shot on a back lot.
Blocking a Shot: Blocking a shot is the process by which a director determines where the actors stand, where the lights will shine, and how the camera will be positioned. Generally, a director will block a shot before bringing the actors on set to actually film.
Call Time: The time you must be on set or location, ready to work.
Circus: Makeup, Hair and Wardrobe Trucks, Honey wagons, Mobile Dressing Rooms and Catering. In other parts of the world this is called Unit Base or Base Camp.
Company Move: Short for “We’re on the move’; this means that the entire unit is finished at that location and is
Cut!: The call to stop the action. Before releasing any lock-up make sure you hear cut from the 1st AD.
Day for Night: Using special camera lenses, lighting and film stock to create a night look during the day.
Extras: Performers hired to provide background action; also known as the “background performers”.
Flag: A flag is a black, light-absorbing cloth (duvetine) stretched on a metal frame and used to block out areas of light in all different sizes.
Genie Lift: A raising platform/crane used mainly for high angle shots and lighting for exterior night shots.
Go Again: Repeat the same shot. (Get used to hearing this one).
Honey-wagon: Washroom truck.
Hot Set: The set is ready for shooting and must remain exactly as is for continuity (high priority).
Lock It Up: Short for “Be quiet and get ready for cameras to roll
Martini Shot: Last shot before wrap; also “Window Shot”
MOS: Mute On Screen. Camera is rolling but not recording sound.
Pick-Up: Re-filming part of a scene from a specific point in the action.
Picture’s up: Rehearsal is complete; cameras will roll on the next action.
Roll Camera: Cue to the camera operator to begin rolling film.
Roll Sound: Cue to the sound mixer to begin recording sound.
Rolling: Film and sound are rolling, action is about to begin. Be quiet and still!
Room Tone: Recording dead air (no dialogue) for matching sound ambience during post-production. Be quiet!
Slate: A slate is the digital board held in front of the camera that identifies the camera person, director, shot number, and title. There is also the take number, and the slate operator will say “mark” before clapping. This is for sound sync purposes.
Speed: Response heard from Sound Mixer after “Roll Sound”, meaning that themachine is up to speed.
Stand By: Hold your positions for a temporary delay, and be prepared for rolling.
Star Wagon: Mobile dressing room for actors
Tow Shot: A sequence where a picture car is towed by a camera truck for traveling car scenes.
Tracking Shot: A tracking is where the camera moves alongside the subject throughout a space. The camera is usually mounted on a dolly track, and it is best for side-to-side motions. It is also known as a follow shot.
Turn Around: Reversing the camera angle 180 degrees. This is not to be confused with crew turnaround, which is the required rest period between workdays.
Wild Sound: Recording specific dialogue or sounds without the camera rolling, for editing purposes; also “wild lines.”
Wrap: The end of the shooting day (finally!)
References:
https://ubcpactra.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Terminology-on-Film-Sets.pdf
https://www.studiobinder.com/blog/movie-film-terms/
2024 That’s a Wrap..
Vancouver, AKA Hollywood North has been a shining star for film & television production over the course of many years, and we are determined to keep it that way. However, the industry has faced numerous challenges to stay booming after the pandemic, as well as the strikes that took place in 2023.
With that being said, we have high hopes that 2025 is going to be a fruitful year for the industry, and it seems British Columbia is sailing in the same direction by increasing tax incentives & ensuring excitement:
“Budget 2025 will include increases to the Film Incentive BC (FIBC) tax credit, which supports Canadian-content productions, and the production services tax credit (PSTC) that provides a tax incentive for international projects made in B.C.
With the approval of budget legislation, the FIBC will increase from 35% to 36%, and the PSTC will increase from 28% to 36% for productions with principal photography starting Jan. 1, 2025. To further give major productions incentives in the province, projects with B.C. production costs of greater than $200 million will receive a 2% bonus.” (“Action! B.C. sets the scene to attract more film, TV productions.” (2024, December 12th) BC Gov News. https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2024FIN0049-001652)
Alongside helpful government incentives, there are many other reasons Vancouver continues to remain a hotspot destination for production, some of those reasons include:
Modern infrastructure paired alongside natural beauty
One of the biggest reasons productions seek creative freedom in Vancouver is its unique mix of modern architecture and studios, engulfed by lush forestry, mountains that appear painted, sweeping ocean horizons, and more. Steps away from raw beauty, you’ll find New York styled bars, alleys, hotels, and more. As we all know, Vancouver rarely portrays itself, but it excels at setting various scenes.
PHOTO CREDIT: LUKAS JOHNSTON
Endless Talent Pool
Vancouver boasts a talented creative workforce. There is an abundance of cinematographers, hair and makeup teams, actors, and other crew members who are prepared and excited to assist in bringing creative endeavors to life.
More things include growing recognition, vibrant culture, & strong focus on sustainability.
As we toast to 2024 here at Location Base, we want to extend our sincere gratitude for the wonderful partnerships we’ve encountered with locations and production teams this year. We look forward to continued growth and are thrilled to embrace exciting new opportunities as we welcome 2025.
Spotlight: Farm Properties
In this blog post we’d like to spotlight some of the charming farm locations in our library. Scattered across the province these listings range from modern expansive properties to older quaint and cozy locations. We’re excited to help you capture the essence of rural life and timeless living for your next project.
Luxury Valley Home and Farm, Pemberton, BC
This 135-acre farm and luxury four-bedroom house has vaulted ceilings, exposed brick features and views out to the surrounding Valley, this location can easily accommodate shoots of all sizes. Pemberton is just north of Whistler.
Wilderness Forest Farm, Shawnigan Lake, BC
Situated on Vancouver Island, this property spans 70 acres, split by a main road and a logging road into three parcels:
• Parcel 1: 6.5 acres along the Koksilah River, with trails and a chain link fence, parking, camping area, fire pit, and river access. Accessed from the main road.
• Parcel 2: 5 acres of forest with a driveway and steel gate, accessible from the logging road. Backs onto Koksilah Provincial Park with trails and is near Kinsol Trestle.
• Parcel 3: 58.5 acres, accessible from both roads with secure gates and fencing. Mostly forested with streams, creeks, and trails.
This HUGE property also includes: 10 acres of cleared space, 1.5-acre asphalt pad, 4 insulated Quonset hut buildings, Sea can storage containers, Mobile home (recent kitchen upgrade), Campers, Orchard with 30 fruit and nut trees, Large fenced garden with 2 chicken coops and 8 raised beds, Irrigation pond, Spring-fed swimming pond, Event area with stage, Ceremonial wood henge fire pit, Kids’ playground, Gazebos.
Windmill House & Stables, South Surrey, BC
This charming historic house and property is so unique.. be sure to click through to the entire photo file. It’s located on spacious country grounds near the US border. The house interior features a fully equipped commercial kitchen, living and dining rooms, a one-of-a-kind library, and a spiral staircase. The large windows allow for plenty of natural light. The exterior provides accessible stables and paddock area and expansive outdoor green space backing onto the Nicomekl River.
Mountain Valley Property and Cabin, D’Arcy, BC
What may come as a surprise as you browse our location library is that we have listings all across the province. Ever hear of D’Arcy, BC? It’s a pristine mountain valley near Whistler. Vast open fields and forested mountain ridge with streams, creeks, ponds and untouched peat bog. Some pasture developed with farm animals and log cabin plus one partially renovated old tiny ‘barn’. This property is off grid without light pollution creating stunning night sky shoot possibilities.
Island Family Farm, Bowen Island, BC
A super short ferry ride from Vancouver (Horseshoe Bay) is Bowen Island. We’ve got quite a few locations on the Island and would love productions to utilize them more. Yes, there are ferry costs and logistics to content with but you get so much bang for your buck. This sprawling farmland sits on over 100 acres of oceanfront property. This mixed farm features a Market Garden & Greenhouse, Sheep, Chickens and Pigs, also Donkeys and Ponies! There are several barns and outbuildings on the main property surrounding the red house. Next door there is another large house, cabins, a woodshed, pond area and private beach with dock and rock outcrop! Across the road is a forested area leading up to wide open rolling green hills with a mountain backdrop.
We recently had a great shoot at this Rustic Farm in South Surrey. This farm is 23 acres with a massive old pole barn, a milking shed, a wooden shelter and two stone silos. None of the structures are in great condition, but they have oh so much patina and character. The house is available for an extra fee.
Thank you for joining us on a quiet stroll through our serene pieces of farm property! To Find a Location, you can search by keyword, location type, area or category. You can shortlist locations or make inquiries directly from the listings. Looking forward to seeing you and sharing bits of simpler life with you, soon. 🌾 🧑🏼🌾
Written by Lukas Johnston @locationfixer
Summer Filming Spots
As summer approaches we want to showcase some of our favourite warm and sunny filming locations. From picturesque pools to lush tennis courts and waterfront homes, our portfolio offers a great range of locations to ensure your project captures all the best parts of this golden season.
Cove Estate, Port Mellon, BC
This elite off-grid estate resides on 270 acres of private land along a pristine coastal shoreline; featuring a coved post and beam ceiling, gym, 6 bedrooms, a wraparound deck boasting breathtaking views with an outdoor hot tub / pool and a private dock.
LA Style Home – North Vancouver, BC
Nestled in North Vancouver, this stunning mid-century modern residence exudes LA vibes from corner to corner. Flaunting an open-concept design on its upper floor, with full sliding doors that open the kitchen and living room to the outside wrap around deck. With panoramic views, sleek lines, and an ambiance that captures the west coast experience this home is your perfect location for shoots that need an LA look with a west coast high end feel. This place has it all including a swimming pool and a hot tub, 4 bedrooms on the main floor and 2 more in the basement.
French Provincial Home – Langley, BC
A beautiful home on property that captures an old-world kind of charm yet with a current eclectic decor. The property is well maintained and landscaped. There is also a swimming pool and spa on the property including a hot tub, sauna and steam room.
Southlands Estate – Vancouver, BC
Stylish, 9,162 square foot home sitting on four acre estate featuring 4 bedrooms & 5 bathrooms. With indoor pool, extensive grounds, outdoor tennis courts and stable outbuildings.
The Ambleside Estate – West Vancouver, BC
9972 square ft family home situated on an expansive 25,000+ square ft lot with a creek running through the property. This garden is stunning and available for booking separately for a different rate. This home includes an indoor pool & hot tub, two libraries, nine bathrooms, seven bedrooms and beautiful wood features throughout.
James Bay Square – Victoria, BC
Centrally located in the heart of James Bay in Victoria on Vancouver Island.
Fraser Place – Steveston, BC
Situated in the charming seaside community of Old Steveston Village.
We trust you’ve enjoyed this deep dive into some of our summer portfolio! To Find a Location, you can search by keyword, location type, area or category. You can shortlist locations or make inquiries directly from the listings. We hope to see you pool side very soon! With Location Base, your project will flow effortlessly, like a cool summer breeze.
Spotlight: Vancouver Island
White sea foam, purple sea stars, surfboards, tree trunks the size of houses—these are just a few of the images that come to mind. The tree’s scaly bark tells stories of centuries past, while its charming local shops and broken clocks complement the slow pace of present life. When Vancouver Island filming come up in conversation, people may think of the likes of Twilight and Pamela Anderson… Little do they know, the Film Industry there is alive and beckoning the next creative humming. Location Base is proud to offer a variety of filming locations on the island to accommodate your next creative project. Here, we shine the light on some of them (click on headings to go to the full listing).
Cabins by the Sea
Seven cottages nestled in 16 acres of forest, in a harbour inlet on the Pacific Ocean. The property boasts a 170 ft dock, a dense forest with hidden trails & a private beach, Bamfield, BC.
Eclectic Home in Ucluelet
This residential space with large garden, deck, hot tub, and bonus barn style tiny home (800 square foot barn style mini home with loft). It has a Hot Tub, Large yard with garden and a great deck/patio. Unique barn style mini home with modern kitchen. Can also be accommodation for crew – this could be the perfect place to shoot and stay!
Wilderness Forest Farm
The property is 70 acres and is divided by the main road and a logging road which creates 3 separate parcels, Shawnigan Lake, BC
Funky Nanaimo Loft
The Loft is brand new construction, beautiful, bright, ultra clean, 2 bedrooms plus large spacious loft guesthouse in Nanaimo, BC. A 20-foot vaulted ceiling boasts 4 skylights, a grand look with a cozy feel, Nanaimo, BC
Although the Mainland has much to offer when it comes to filming, its Island counterpart also boasts its fair share of hidden corners that provide a unique filming experience. Vancouver Island awaits the lights, cameras, and action; we hope to see you soon at one of our spotlight locations.
For even more inspiration you can check out our Find a Location page where you can search by location, keyword or category.
BTS: The Locations Department
The glamour and allure of the film industry often shine brightest on the actors, directors, and producers. However, behind every movie, there’s a team of dedicated professionals who work tirelessly to ensure that every scene is prepared and shot in the perfect location. Welcome to the world of the Locations Department, the unsung heroes who are the backbone of keeping a film set running smoothly.
Production Assistant (PA)
The entry point for many aspiring filmmakers, the Production Assistant is the jack-of-all-trades on set. They assist with various tasks, including setting up and breaking down equipment, coordinating transportation, and running errands. PAs are the first to arrive and the last to leave, often working long hours to ensure the production stays on schedule.
Locations Manager
Often referred to as the “LM,” the Locations Manager is responsible for scouting and securing filming locations. They work closely with the director and production designer to find the perfect settings that bring the script to life. The LM also handles permits, negotiations with property owners, and coordinates logistics for the cast and crew.
Assistant Locations Manager (ALM)
The ALM works closely with the Locations Manager to assist in all aspects of location scouting and management. They help coordinate the logistics of filming, including parking for cast and crew, ensuring the location is left in its original condition, and managing the needs of the production on set.
Locations Scout
A crucial member of the team, the Locations Scout is responsible for finding potential filming locations. They travel far and wide, scouting everything from urban landscapes to remote wilderness areas, to find the perfect backdrop for each scene. Scouts must have a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the script’s requirements to find locations that fit the director’s vision.
Why They Are Essential
The Locations Department is essential to the filmmaking process for several reasons. Firstly, they help create the visual identity of the film, selecting locations that enhance the story and capture the audience’s imagination. Secondly, they ensure the smooth running of the production by handling logistics, permits, and other practicalities. Finally, they play a crucial role in budget management, finding cost-effective solutions that meet the production’s needs without breaking the bank.
While the glamour of Hollywood often focuses on the stars, it’s important to remember the hardworking individuals behind the scenes who make movie magic happen! The Locations Department may not always be in the spotlight, but their dedication and expertise are what bring the world of the film to life. So, next time you watch a movie, take a moment to appreciate the work of the Locations Department.
Fun Fact!:
In 1910, architect J. S. Helyer designed our filming location The Dominion that, back then, was the tallest building in the British Empire. Standing at 147 feet, 6 inches. Its reign as the tallest was short-lived, though, as the nearby Sun Tower (also one of our filming locations) surpassed it just a couple of years later.
Filmed in Gibsons, BC
Gibsons is a sleepy little coastal town that’s accessible only by boat – for most, this involves a 40 minute ferry ride from Horseshoe Bay in West Vancouver.
It’s most famous for the CBC series Beachcombers which filmed there for 18 years. Although it finished filming in 1990 the town still gets many visitors with an interest in the show and seeing its location landmarks.
Other notable productions include the Stephen King movie Needful Things (released 1993). This horror took over lower Gibsons (filming in Grammas Pub, Mollys Reach and the dock) and starred Ed Harris. Locals still talk about the set they blew up for the ending.
Over the years Gibsons has had its fair share of movies from the mainland looking for a beautiful coastal town that often doubles for America. Charlie St Cloud starring Zac Efron filmed a portion of the movie here as well as Hallmark movies including Christmas Sail (2021) and Nantucket Noel (2021). In 2024, Gibsons was the setting for the FOX TV Show Murder in a Small Town. We’re sure there’s many more! – please comment below so we can add to our list.
The Cost and logistics of the ferry crossing definitely act as a deterrent to larger productions but the town is welcoming to projects of all scope and sizes. Location fees on the Coast are generally less than comparable locations on the mainland so that could offset any travel costs for your smaller projects. Maybe Gibsons could be perfect for your next shoot location?
Filming with no/low budget?
Filming with no / low budget is tough and something we get asked about from time to time.
Location Base only represents locations that would like to receive a location fee, BUT we do have some hot tips for creatives who want to create, but simply don’t have the funds (trust us, we’ve been there!!)
Tip 2
Tip 3
Tip 4
Who do you know? Are you a regular in a cafe or a bar? Could you ask the owners to use the place for free if you buy the crew sandwiches there? Or maybe you’ll tell them you’ll put their logo in the film and tag them in all your socials. If you want to film a quick segment of someone exiting a store, can you say you’ll feature their signage?
Tip 5
If you have some budget, reach out to independent hotels or home rental sites. Be very open and honest that you are filming / creating content and may have a large number of people there but reiterate that it will be self contained and not that many people will be sleeping there! Some locations will be fine with this as long as they get the regular rental fee and no damage.
Tip 6
Think of yourself as a small community event (if you are non profit that’s what you are!) and reach out to venues that allow community rentals for free or a small amount. Many community centres do this. Also many of these types of locations have interesting looks – Community Halls / Legions / smaller event spaces/ camps. You may think they are just empty spaces but many of them have kitchens that can be dressed / gardens / bar areas (that could be a restaurant or cafe) or even lounge type areas that could be an apartment. Again some have parkades or rooftops.
Tip 7
Cheat. Cheat. Cheat (not that kind of cheating!) Set dressing is your friend. With the right props, one house could double as many locations. The garden could cheat for a park or a living room or a bedroom could be different houses belonging to different characters.
Tip 8
Stay away from the popular, busy filming areas. Locations further away from a city centre may be more accommodating. Some communities may let you film in parks/ public areas for free if you keep yourself contained. Be sure to reach out to the relevant film office and get the local guidelines. (They will almost certainly need to see insurance).
Tip 9
Keep your cast and crew small and your footprint small. A location is much more likely to let you filmif you are a crew of 8 and you are there for a specific time frame 2 – 4 hours. Be mindful of the locations busy hours. If they are not being paid, a business is not going to want you there if it could affect their sales. Suggest a day when they’re closed or after hours. Some venues have event rooms out the back, could you use that room if it’s not being rented – that way they don’t have to pay staff to come in when they’re closed?
Tip 10
Be respectful and get yourself a dedicated location manager on your set. Locations will take you more seriously if they have one point person handling the logistics. Who will be doing the cleaning? Have you asked if you can plug in your equipment, who’s bringing toilet paper and hand soap for the washrooms – this all makes you seem more considerate!
Tip 11
Be realistic! Don’t expect to cold call a mansion and get to use their swimming pool for a few days! Also remember $200 may be a lot to you but in the great scheme of things most houses want upwards of $2000 for a day for a small crew and $5000 + for a large crew! Maybe don’t even suggest the small fee as a rental fee – suggest it as more of a thank you fee!
GOOD LUCK! 🙂