ST. LOUIS — On Saturday, the Missouri Film Office used Tower Grove Park as a training ground for up-and-coming filmmakers and producers. Their primary objective was to learn how to scout movie and TV sets at local businesses, homes and outdoor spaces.
The class on Sept. 21 was put on with the help of the nonprofit Continuity, an organization that aims to expand diversity in Missouri media production.
The weekend event follows a 2023 legislative tax credit. Location Lab presenter Kelley Hiatt said Missouri now has one of the highest possible tax credit limits in the country after last year's legislation, reaching up to 42%.
Hiatt, the St. Louis Film office manager, said she's constantly getting calls from both coasts asking the St. Louis Film office about bringing projects to the state this year and next. A range of exciting prospects Hiatt explained will boost the Missouri film industry.
This is one of the reasons Hiatt and Continuity need more soldiers in the field looking for locations to shoot. One of the hardest parts of creating opportunities is having a big enough database to present options to directors and entertainment leaders.
If you're interested in attending a future Continuity workshop click here or send an email to info@continuitystl.org. You can also contact Hiatt at the St. Louis Film Office at khiatt@explorestlouis.com or 314-992-0625 if you want to get involved as a St. Louis area film/TV location scout.