What Is 2nd Location Managers Guild Awards

Overview

The 2nd Location Managers Guild Awards celebrated the critical behind-the-scenes work of location managers in the film and television industry. Held on March 19, 2017, the ceremony recognized excellence in location scouting, management, and community engagement across global productions.

Organized by the Location Managers Guild International (LMGI), the event highlighted the often-overlooked role that locations play in storytelling. From urban cityscapes to remote natural landscapes, the awards underscored how vital location choices are to a production’s authenticity and success.

• March 19, 2017 marked the official date of the 2nd annual ceremony, held at Warner Bros. Studios in Burbank, California.
• The awards honored achievements in 14 distinct categories, including Excellence in Location Scouting and Outstanding Location Team.
• Union and non-union productions were both eligible, reflecting the LMGI’s inclusive mission to represent all location professionals.
• Global representation was a hallmark, with nominees from the U.S., U.K., Canada, and Australia.
• The event included the presentation of the Trailblazer Award, given to individuals who have significantly advanced the location management profession.

How It Works

The Location Managers Guild Awards are structured to recognize both individual achievements and team efforts in location management. Nominations are submitted by industry professionals and reviewed by a committee of LMGI members.

• Nomination Process: Submissions are accepted from LMGI members and verified industry peers, requiring detailed project descriptions and location logs.
• Judging Committee: A panel of 12 LMGI-certified location managers evaluates entries based on creativity, problem-solving, and community relations.
• Eligibility Window: Projects must have aired or been released between January 1, 2016, and December 31, 2016, to qualify for the 2nd awards.
• Categories: Awards are divided into film, television, and international divisions, with separate honors for large and small productions.
• Voting & Verification: Finalists are reviewed for compliance with union standards and environmental guidelines, ensuring ethical practices.
• Award Ceremony: Winners are announced at a formal event featuring speeches, tributes, and networking opportunities for industry professionals.

Comparison at a Glance

A comparison of the first and second Location Managers Guild Awards reveals growth in scope and recognition.

The increase in categories and attendance from the first to the second awards reflects the LMGI’s expanding influence. The recognition of La La Land in 2017 highlighted how location choices in urban settings can shape a film’s emotional tone. The broader international presence also signaled a growing global appreciation for location management as a craft.

Why It Matters

Recognizing location professionals elevates their role in the creative process and promotes sustainable, community-conscious filming practices. The awards also encourage transparency and professionalism across the industry.

• La La Land won Best Location in a Feature Film, praised for its authentic use of Los Angeles landmarks like the Griffith Observatory.
• The awards promote environmental responsibility, requiring nominees to document sustainable practices during filming.
• Winning enhances a location manager’s reputation, leading to increased job opportunities and higher project budgets.
• Community engagement is a judging criterion, rewarding productions that build positive local relationships.
• The event fosters networking, helping location managers share strategies for permits, logistics, and crisis management.
• By spotlighting excellence, the LMGI helps secure union recognition and fair wages for location professionals worldwide.

The 2nd Location Managers Guild Awards not only celebrated past achievements but also set a higher standard for future productions. As filmmaking grows more complex, the role of location managers becomes increasingly vital to both artistic vision and operational success.