GUIDE TO MARINE FILMING
HOW TO FILM ON THE THAMES & CONNECTED WATERWAYS
There are six main steps to be achieved through mutual discussion and negotiation:
- Planning
- Application
- Costing
- Confirmtation
- Filming
- De-brief
1. PLANNING
Livett's Launches welcomes initial conversations and/or location recce's with TV & film-makers to discuss the logistics of a story, stunt sequence or to locate that particular backdrop. We can help determine from an early stage what may and may not be achievable on the and if alternative location can fulfill your requirements more effectively.
Enquiries can be made by telephone, email or fax. Please see our contact details for further information.
At this point we will also advise on the process of applying for a filming license from thE relevant local authority and help ensure your proposed shoot fits with their requirements. If the filming is technical in nature we may also need to arrange river closures which on the Thames in London require a minuimum of 3 weeks notice.
We have over 20 years expereince and have coordinated some of the biggest filming productions the Thames has seen including James Bond, The Flood and Harry Potter.
2. APPLICATION
Once the proposal has been proved achievable it must be approved by the local authority. For filming on the Thames this would be either the Environment Agency, Port of London Authority or British Waterways.
Each application is assessed on a case-by-case basis, taking into account the various sensitivities and other commitments of the proposal.
Filming cannot proceed with out us receiving a copy of your filming license.
3. COSTING
We will provide detailed quotes covering every aspect possible to ensure you are fully prepared and aware of what the total costs of the sequence will be. Our quotes include administration, but do not include VAT.
4. CONFIRMATION
Once you are happy with the proposed quotes send us a purchase order and we will raise the necessary invoices payment of which will be due prior to filming commencing, unless otherwise agreed. You will also need to complete and return a copy of our booking form to accept our terms and conditions of charter (assuming you require boats for filming).
We require a copy of your Public Liability Insurance (recommended minimum £5 million. £10 million for large-scale production), your filming license, a method statement and risk assessment if necessary.
5. FILMING
Payment must be made in advance of filming by cheque, credit card or BACS. Note all payments must be received in cleared funds prior to filming, unless otherwise agreed. Film-makers will be issued with a receipt as soon as possible.
Depending on the nature of the project, a bond may be required to safeguard against damage and/or reinstatement.
6. DE-BRIEF
Livett's Launches welcomes a conversation or meeting once filming is completed to discuss what worked and what didn’t in order to continually improve the service to film-makers.
Examples of film sequences shot on the River Thames in London