Here’s a neat idea to make money from your vacation homes or even your personal property. Have it star in a movie!
All you need to do is take about 36 pictures and send them to the local film commision. They maintain a database for location scouts. Of course they’ll take a large chunk of the money you make as a commission but with rates going as high as $2,500/day its probably worth it.
The San Diego Film Commission has the following tips:
Movie magic has been the source of fantasy and dreams for nearly 100 years.Most people are fascinated with the process and will cooperate if they understand what is going on.The film experience can be fun.Here ‘s what you need to know to make your property a “star”:
One: You must own or manage the property and be able to legally grant permission for filming to occur.
Two: Production companies carry insurance that covers damage or accidents that may occur during location shooting.Request that you and your property be added as “additional insured ” on their policy and get a copy before filming begins.
Three: Ask questions first:
* Is the San Diego Film Commission involved?(Your assurance that all local governmental and agency permits, requirements and concerns are being handled.)
* What is the name of the production company and the project name?
* What kind of project is it? TV, feature film, commercial, print ad? Is it an interior or exterior shot?
* What is the action? Walk and talk? Fight scene? Chase?
* How many crew members and talent will be on the property?
* Where will they park? Will it impact my business? The neighbors?
* Will the company inform the neighbors and provide a neighborhood letter?
* How long will they use the location?
* If the filming takes longer than planned, what happens then?
* How and when will the company restore the property to its original condition?Four: You will be working primarily with the location manager. Ask the manager to tape off areas of your property that won ‘t be used to prevent crew and talent from “roaming ” from the scene.
Five: Make a written agreement as to what you do and do not permit on your property, for example: eating, drinking, smoking.
Six: The location manager will offer you a fee for the use of your property. Ask how and when you will be paid. When considering whether the amount is a fair offer, first think of a reasonable rate if you were to lease your property to a typical user for one month, then divide that amount by thirty to determine a daily rate. If it is a business property, consider what you would make in revenue on a typical day. Other considerations are the level of inconvenience, the time and number of people involved and whether or not you would enjoy the experience. Interior filming is more disruptive than exterior filming. A print shoot, with a tripod and a crew of 3 to 5 people, is not as disruptive as a 35-member commercial shoot with camera and sound equipment. Remember, the production company must restore everything to its original state.
Seven: Recognize that any time you have people in your home there will be disruption. Cables will be laid, furniture moved, things bumped, etc. The crew will lay cardboard on your floors to prevent damage and will clean or paint any walls they damage. Negotiate up front for other protective measures your property and belongings may require.
Eight: You may want to remove any personal items that you consider to be valuable or irreplaceable before shooting begins, such as antiques, photographs or family memorabilia.
Nine: If there is a celebrity on your property you will be tempted to photograph them or talk to them. Make certain that you have permission to do either. The actor may be concentrating on the part and not appreciate the interruption. The location manager will know the best approach, and may prefer to introduce you themselves. Please don ‘t invite friends and family to view the filming. The production company is performing work that needs a quiet environment to succeed.
Ten: The production company supplies its own electricity via portable generator, as well as their own bathrooms, unless otherwise specified.
Eleven: The production company should ask your permission before cutting any shrubs, trimming trees or any other activity that alters your property.
Twelve: Don’t be afraid to ask questions. If the production company can ‘t answer your questions to your satisfaction please call the San Diego Film Commission at (619)234-FILM.