If you’ve ever worked on a film or video production, you’ve probably heard the term recce thrown around. But what is it, and why is it such a big deal?

A recce (short for reconnaissance) is basically a fancy way of saying, “Let’s check out the location before we rock up with a full crew and kit.” It’s an essential step in pre-production that ensures the location is up to the task and helps everyone avoid unnecessary headaches on the day.

At Turps Film, we think of a recce as our chance to dig into the nitty-gritty, scope out potential challenges, and find creative opportunities to make the shoot as smooth as possible. Let’s break it down— what’s involved, why it’s so important, and what can go wrong if you skip it.

Why Bother with a Recce?

1. Getting a Feel for the Location

A recce is the first step in bringing your creative vision to life. It’s your chance to step into the space and imagine how it’ll work for your story. Is the location visually appealing? Does it match the tone of your project? A physical visit gives you clarity that no amount of Google Images or video calls can provide.

2. Sorting Lighting and Gear

Lighting can make or break a video. During a recce, you’ll see how natural light hits the space and whether it changes throughout the day. This lets you decide what time to shoot and whether you’ll need extra lights to get the look you want. It’s also a chance to figure out what equipment to bring—do you have enough space for all the gear? Will you need a smaller camera rig or extra power sources? Getting these answers upfront makes life much easier when the cameras roll.

3. Planning Your Sound

Audio can be a sneaky troublemaker on set. A recce helps you identify background noise like traffic, planes, or even that oddly chatty neighbour next door. Knowing this in advance lets you adjust your sound recording setup or choose quieter times to film. Clean sound = happy ears.

4. Checking the Practical Stuff

A recce isn’t just about creative decisions; it’s also about logistics. Where will your crew park? Is there enough space for everyone to work comfortably? Are there nearby facilities for breaks? Sorting these practicalities before shoot day keeps everything running smoothly.

5. Safety First

Safety is always a priority. A recce helps you spot potential hazards, like uneven ground, low ceilings, or slippery surfaces, so you can address them before they become a problem. It’s all about making sure your team can focus on the creative stuff without worrying about accidents.

What’s Involved in a Recce?

  • Walk the Space: We explore every corner of the location, looking for the best spots to shoot, potential challenges, and hidden gems that could elevate the visuals.
  • Take Photos and Notes: Phones out, notebooks open. We document everything—angles, light sources, and any issues—so we have a reference when we’re back planning.
  • Test the Tech: Whether it’s lighting rigs, drones, or specialised equipment, we make sure everything works in the space. This avoids nasty surprises on the day.
  • Chat with Location Managers: If the location is a public venue or private property, we make sure to understand any rules or restrictions, from noise limits to filming times.

What Happens if You Skip It?

Skipping a recce might save time in the short term, but it can lead to major headaches later. Here’s what can go wrong:

  • Surprises You Didn’t Plan For: Maybe the space is smaller than it looked in pictures, or there’s construction happening nearby. Without a recce, you’re flying blind, and that’s never a good idea.
  • Wasted Time and Money: Delays on set can quickly add up. If you have to pause filming to solve problems you could’ve spotted earlier, you’re burning through your budget unnecessarily.
  • Compromised Quality: Your film or video might not look or sound as good as it could have because you weren’t prepared. Nobody wants a final product that feels rushed or poorly executed.

Why Recces Are Always Worth It

At Turps Film, we see recces as a chance to get ahead. They’re an opportunity to find creative solutions, plan for challenges, and ensure everyone knows exactly what to expect. Whether it’s a corporate video, a live event, or a documentary, a good recce sets the stage for a successful shoot.

So, if you’re planning a video project and want a team that values preparation as much as creativity, get in touch. We’ll take care of the recces—and everything else—to make sure your video is something you’ll be proud to share.