Very few films are shot entirely in studio sets.  Even the most fantastical stories may use real locations to bring characters and stories to life.  Location Managers must understand the Director's vision for a film in order to find the most suitable locations.  The search for exactly the right location can take months of research and scouting.  Once the location has been found, careful negotiations must be carried out about costs, access, noise, parking and permissions.  On big films involving many locations, excellent logistical expertise is required of the entire Location department.

Assistant Location Managers provide back up for the Location Manager and are responsible for producing Movement Orders (directions to locations which are distributed daily with call sheets) for the cast and crew.  On bigger films, Location Assistants are also employed to help with many of the physical tasks, as well as Unit Managers who organise all vehicles, and liaise between the crew and location owners, residents or landlords to keep the shoot running smoothly.

Location Managers must combine the creative ability to visualise a Director's ideas with excellent organisational skills.  The other members of the Location department should also be well organised and good communicators.  They must all be experienced and confident drivers.

Occupations found in this area are detailed below: