Be Safe

Don’t put yourself at risk trying to film something. If you need help ask someone.

Key filming hazards include tripping and falling. Ask someone to watch your back.

Don’t put yourself at risk trying to film something. If you need help ask someone.

Key filming hazards include tripping and falling. Ask someone to watch your back.

Don’t drive and film at the same time – it’s also illegal!

Think about the positioning of your film equipment – so it doesn’t block any paths or pose a risk of injury to someone passing by it.

No Trespassing! There might be a great scene from a private garden or field but you’ll need permission from the homeowner or landowner first.

Don’t forget about anyone you’re looking after while you’re filming. Especially if they could wander off.

If you are not using your own equipment, check it first so that you know how to use it safely.

Personal safety

In the words of the old safety ad, ‘always tell someone when you’re going somewhere!' Let someone know where you are going to film and what time you think you will be back. This is particularly important if you’re filming somewhere remote - like the Highlands in Scotland. If you have a mobile phone, take it with you it with you. And if filming outdoors, make sure you’re prepared for a change in the weather.

When filming openly in public and semi-public places, where an individual may be accidently caught on camera as part of the general scene, if they stop you, then stop filming and explain what you are doing. If an individual becomes aggressive or threatening stop filming and walk away.

If you are intending to engage members of the public actively in your film then you will need to ask their consent for filming.

For more practical tips on filming see the Britain in a Day how to booklet.

For consent forms you’ll need for anyone contributing to your film, or for parents/guardians to sign if you’re filming any under 18s please see our Consent page.