Shooting a film or short film on location entails shooting a location that's outside a studio. Studios are self-contained, with all aspects of production in a controlled environment (lighting, equipments, props). This makes it an ideal way to shoot most film productions. But at the same time this method requires plenty of resources to be at hand, with some studio space, no less. In the situation of a low budget to a no budget amateur filmmaker, most will find themselves shooting their projects on location, and on public ground.

A vast difference exists between production of a film shot in studio space and a film shot entirely on location, with the latter being the more difficult process; though such a difficulty lies in the method of production. Studio shoots are held in completely closed off and private locations, while the latter often involves exposure to the public; a public that will not always treat a film's production with respect or clarity. But the public is a lesser concern when compared to state and county laws. Legally, any film or short film shot on public or state-owned land must adhere to the process of permits. These can be costly. They also involve a lot of paperwork; so much in fact that firms and studios have their own separate departments in which to enact or enforce them. Taking all of this into retrospect, shooting a project within the boundaries of studio or private space can prove to be a blessing.

But that blessing comes and goes with certain productions. Not all ideas adhere to private space. Sometimes the public realm must be invaded. Legally, the law remains on the side of state and public, and not the filmmaker. Not all law enforcement will cut you a break even if you are a student filmmaker (subject to certain liberties concerning permits). The thing to always bear in mind when shooting out in the open is that the public will only allow so much. This is to say that public shooting is tolerated only in so much as the public will allow it; unless, of course, you have the permits and insurance to back up your claims when called into question. Because to have all the legal paperwork attended to, there will be little legal ramifications to worry about. From there on out, the law is on your side, and the public cannot interfere.

Besides the mega budget studio pictures, very few films actually qualify to be shot in this manner. But most of them manage to outmaneuver the legal side of on location shoots. How? Discretion and planning. The best way to go ahead with this is to be as discreet as possible. Minimize equipment, and schedule the shoot when public traffic is at a minimum. Even law enforcement will be willing to overlook the production if it remains discreet. Make sure of this by planning out the shoot as thorough as possible. Doing so will reduce the amount of time spent at the actual location, and more time spent getting out of there.