Let’s start by stating the obvious: location scouting is a profession undergoing significant transformation. With AI making breakthroughs across industries, location scouting is no exception. While this profession will likely persist for quite some time, several factors are poised to reshape its future.

The advent of greenscreen technology combined with AI and CGI is set to revolutionize the industry. What we currently view as advanced technology, accessible only to major studios, will likely become affordable for smaller-budget productions in the future. Eventually, using real locations and actors might even become a selling point for larger studios, emphasizing the authenticity of their productions.

However, there are compelling reasons why location scouts will continue to play a vital role in filmmaking, even in an AI-driven future:

• Human Creativity and Judgment: While AI can analyze data and suggest locations, it lacks the nuanced understanding and creative intuition of a human scout. A location scout brings a unique perspective, connecting a director's vision with the perfect setting in ways an algorithm cannot replicate.
• Practical On-Site Logistics: Location scouting isn’t just about finding visually appealing spots; it also involves assessing accessibility, permits, lighting conditions, and other logistical aspects that AI tools cannot fully evaluate remotely.
• The Emotional Connection of Real Locations: Real-world locations offer emotional depth and authenticity that CGI often struggles to replicate. Audiences can feel the difference, and directors frequently prefer settings that evoke genuine emotional resonance.
• Emerging Hybrid Roles: As AI technology evolves, location scouts may adapt into hybrid professionals, leveraging AI as a tool while managing the critical human aspects of scouting. This adaptation could enhance their value rather than diminish it.
• Public Engagement and Visibility: Visible productions in real-world settings help maintain the mystique of filmmaking. Public interactions with on-location filming sustain interest and enthusiasm for movies, keeping the magic of cinema alive.
• The Role of Artistic Advocacy: Many creative professionals—such as directors, cinematographers, and production designers—have expressed a strong desire not to be replaced by AI. Their artistic contributions are deeply tied to real-world locations and the organic storytelling they facilitate. Additionally, unions and advocacy groups will likely fight to safeguard their creative rights, ensuring AI tools are used to support rather than replace human creativity.
• Economic Influence of Location-Based Filming: Many countries and cities recognize the significant economic impact of hosting film productions and actively encourage location-based filmmaking to boost tourism and local economies. When a film showcases a region’s unique landscapes or cultural landmarks, it often results in increased interest and visitor traffic. Governments and municipalities frequently offer tax incentives, grants, and logistical support to attract filmmakers. This symbiotic relationship between the film industry and local economies ensures that real-world locations remain a key element of cinematic storytelling. However, this does not exclude the possibility that in the future, cities and countries might opt to purchase AI-generated content that prominently features their landmarks and regions instead of hosting physical productions.

One aspect worth considering is that moving entirely into CGI studios isn’t entirely positive for the film industry. Film production has always carried an air of mystique, and this should remain part of its appeal. Productions need to maintain visibility to the public to preserve this intrigue. In time, as the novelty of AI and CGI wears off, we may find ourselves longing for the artistry of real-world filmmaking. Sure, it might be fun to watch a soccer match between Real Madrid and Manchester City performed by avatars, but by the second game, much of the excitement would likely fade.

In Summary
AI is an incredible tool, and when there’s money to be saved, it’s hard to say no. However, human expertise, creative intuition, and the emotional power of real-world locations will ensure that location scouts remain an integral part of the filmmaking process. Additionally, the advocacy of creative professionals and their unions will play a crucial role in safeguarding the artistic integrity of film production. Let’s hope filmmakers use AI to cut costs in practical areas, freeing up resources to invest in the creative elements that are often overlooked today.