About Fast Food locations
Fast food restaurants are scattered across the globe in densely populated areas, making it easy to secure a location that meets event or production needs. These food establishments often offer plenty of space, including outdoor seating and drive-thru lanes, that prove beneficial for setting up staging areas or film sets.
Fast food restaurants typically have open hours outside of normal meal times, making them great off-peak filming locations. They also often feature flexible seating arrangements with ample tables and chairs that can be quickly rearranged to accommodate different types of events or crews. For example, some feature movable diner-style booths offering flexibility in terms of layout for a product launch or performance event. Additionally, movie set designers appreciate how the decor at most fast-food locations can be changed and tailored to suit their needs.
Fast food locations also often feature recognizable trademarks and logos which make them an aesthetically pleasing choice for photoshoots or endorsed film productions. From classic American diner decor to the bright colors of a Mexican Taqueria chain, there is a fast food restaurant that fits the desired look of any event or video shoot.
The Best Events for Fast Food Locations
- Video Shoots
Fast food locations offer a lot of versatility in terms of video recording, with their bright neon signs and iconic branding providing visual interest for establishing shots. The bright colors, interesting shapes, and distinctive atmosphere also make the establishments perfect locations for music videos, commercials, web series, and scripted series. Producers have their pick, from drive-ins, diners, or fast-food joints, depending on the look they’re going for. The flexible interior design also allows producers to incorporate their unique set pieces and props.
- Photography Shoots
Photographers are always on the lookout for unique locations, and fast food restaurants are amongst the list of photogenic venues that fit the bill. By renting out the space, professional shutterbugs have access to interesting visual elements making the food establishments perfect for any kind of photoshoot, from headshots to fashion editorials. These locations come with furniture and signage that can be used as props, enabling photographers to experiment with various camera angles.
- Interactive Gaming Nights
Fast food establishments are also great places to hold interactive gaming nights. Groups of people can rent out the space for video games tournaments or board games. Depending on the particular fast-food location, the establishment offers features such as karaoke machines or game consoles for more variety. Refreshments like pizza and soda can also be offered at discounted rates to encourage people to come back each time there's a gaming night.
- Open Mic Nights
An open mic night held at a fast-food joint makes for an interesting evening of entertainment! Whether it's spoken word poetry, singing, or standup comedy being performed on stage, having such an event at an eatery provides a relaxed environment where everyone can come together to express themselves through art or performance. This kind of event is great for those looking to show off their skills without having to book costly venue space elsewhere.
What to Look for in Fast Food Locations
- Accessibility
Make sure the fast food location has good accessibility in terms of proximity to public transportation or major roads if needed for your event or production. Check if there are any restrictions on photography/filming in certain locations or within the property, given that some areas require permission from local authorities beforehand.
- Ambiance
The ambiance of the fast food location is also important when choosing a setting for a creative project. Paying attention to factors such as décor, lighting, seating arrangements, and noise levels can be essential in setting the right mood for any given scene or project. It is also wise to assess how other patrons may add (or detract) from the overall atmosphere desired on set if you can’t lockdown the entire establishment for your shoot.
- Interior Space
The interior space heavily affects what type of activities can take place on set, or during the event. From hosting large crowds for special occasions or filming scenes requiring multiple actors, crew members, and equipment to offering smaller more intimate settings for other projects such as photo shoots or interviews with guests on air; the interior space should match the event or production needs.
- Cleanliness
Whether you are using both the interior and exterior of the establishment, cleanliness is paramount. Look for areas that have no debris on the ground and make sure all surfaces are sanitized before any activity takes place. If necessary, ask restaurant staff members to assist with cleaning prior to your event so you can be sure everything looks its best.
How to Make Fast Food Events Better
- Get to Know the Space
Before filming commences, it is important to get a good understanding of the restaurant’s space. This includes surveying the layout and judging which areas work best for the visuals being created. Consider how people will be moving around the area and position cameras accordingly. Take full advantage of all the features in the area, such as booths, counters, tables and chairs, countertops, or windows that serve as backdrops.
- Use Natural Light
One great benefit of using a fast food location as a set is the natural light exposure. Using natural light helps create more striking images and makes it easier to achieve desired aesthetics without needing additional lighting equipment or techniques. Consider lighting options, such as natural light coming in from windows or wall sconces, and incorporate them into your production. If possible, bring in professional lighting equipment to add texture and depth to your shots.
- Choose Your Props Wisely
As with any other video production, it is important to choose props that enhance the theme and concept of your project. When filming at a fast food location, be sure to choose bright colors and classic items that emphasize the energy of such an environment.
- Train your Crew Members
Achieving successful results at a fast food location requires everyone on set to be knowledgeable about their roles and expectations. It is essential for everyone involved in production to understand what type of shots are needed in order to make sure that all tasks are completed efficiently and accurately.