From Set to Scene: How Location Managers Guild International Supports the Unsung Heroes of Film and TV
/The Role You Don't See On Screen
Location is a crucial element in any film or TV show because it sets the scene and helps tell the story. It can reveal important details about the characters, mood, and theme. A great filming environment also makes the show more exciting and real for viewers. Considering all of this while taking into account cost, access, and filming conventions is no easy task.
A location manager finds settings that fit the script and the director's vision. But once they find the right place to film, their job is not over. They also handle permits, work with the locals in the community, and make sure everything runs smoothly on set. Their efforts advance the story and keep the production on time and on budget.
What Is the Location Managers Guild International?
Representing these professionals is the Location Managers Guild International (LMGI). Founded in 2003 in Los Angeles, the LMGI advocates for recognition and improved working conditions. Today, the LMGI includes members from over 30 countries who work in film, TV, commercials, and streaming. It welcomes both union and non-union employees. The group provides training, events, and advocacy to spotlight the essential role of location teams.
Key Services and Benefits Provided by LMGI
LMGI offers many services that empower and promote its members. Among them are:
Professional Development, Networking, and Mentorship
LMGI enables members to grow their skills through workshops and seminars. It brings people together through events and mentorship opportunities. Members also get access to job leads and career support.
Location Awards and International Recognition
Each year, LMGI presents awards to honor outstanding achievements in film, television, and commercials. With international categories, the recognition elevates respect for this role and highlights exceptional work.
Ethical Standards and Best Practices in Location Management
LMGI members follow a code that encourages honesty and professionalism. The group promotes ethical and sustainable production and advocates for fairness and conflict resolution on set.
Educational Resources and Industry Advocacy
LMGI shares useful articles, guides, and expert talks. Furthermore, it collaborates with studios and unions to push for better conditions. The group also connects with schools to train and inspire future team members.
How LMGI Elevates the Craft of Location Management
LMGI's awards celebrate both technical excellence and creative influence. The annual recognition showcases how the right place elevates storytelling and honors those who lead, innovate, and champion the profession globally.
The Outstanding Location Awards are presented across various categories, including Contemporary Film and Period TV. For example, in 2024, "Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One” won for Outstanding Locations in a Contemporary Film.
The Eva Monley Award honors storytellers who champion real-world settings. Steven Spielberg received it for his lifelong use of authentic settings in storytelling. And the Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes veterans in the field. Dow Griffith earned this honor for his long career, which includes work on productions such as “Tropic Thunder" and “The Bourne Legacy.”
The Trailblazer Award celebrates pioneers in the field such as Beth Tate, one of LMGI's co-founders, who received the award for her groundbreaking work in scouting. Also notable is the Humanitarian Award, presented to individuals or groups whose contributions significantly benefit communities. One example is The Creative Coalition, which won for promoting social change through entertainment.
Why Location Managers Matter More Than Ever
Location managers are more critical than ever as audiences demand authentic and exciting settings in movies and shows. But this critical role brings additional benefits that aren’t seen on the screen. Their logistical skills keep productions efficient, safe, and community-focused. They help strengthen local economies by bringing business to hotels, restaurants, individual property owners, and workers. And they help protect the environment by using green and responsible practices.
Broadway Stages' Connection to Location Professionals
Broadway Stages works closely with location managers and scouts to bring stories to life using our unique real-world facilities. Productions like “FBI,” “Blue Bloods,” "Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt," "Billions," “Orange is the New Black,” and "Daredevil” have relied on our spaces to create powerful, believable scenes.
Moreover, we offer flexible support space and in-house services that help location managers maintain production efficiency.
And we are proud to share LMGI's commitment to fairness, sustainability, and community care. Our goal is to make sure every production leaves a positive impact on both the screen and the neighborhoods where we live and work.
How to Get Involved or Learn More
LMGI welcomes location managers, scouts, and students from around the world. Members gain access to training, job leads, events, and mentorship opportunities. You can apply easily online here. Additionally, their website includes articles, member stories, event recaps, and award info. You can also follow them on Instagram and Facebook.
Behind Every Great Scene Is a Great Location
With their creative vision, location managers transform real places into iconic moments on screen. LMGI gives these skilled professionals the tools, connections, and recognition they need to succeed and grow. At Broadway Stages, we've seen their talent in action and are proud to support the Guild's mission. We encourage all creatives and collaborators to learn more about and stand behind the work that makes powerful storytelling possible.
One of New York’s largest and most trusted full-service production studio companies, offering comprehensive services for film, television, live streaming, commercials, live performances, music videos, and more. With over 40 years of experience, we’ve become a cornerstone of New York’s thriving creative industry.
With more than 60 soundstages spanning across Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island, Broadway Stages offers over 4 million square feet of state-of-the-art production space, including soundstages, support space, distinctive filming locations, parking, and in-house services for lighting, power, and grip rentals. We provide tailored solutions for productions of all sizes, delivering the resources and expertise needed to meet your creative and technical needs.
Learn about film and TV industry jobs, training, and more in the Broadway Stages’ Industry Resource Guide. Our guide provides information and links to put you in touch with industry-focused job posting sites; general recruiting sites; education and training programs; and state, city, and borough industry information.
