There’s nothing quite like the energy of a packed shoot day in Miami. The city’s natural light is our secret weapon, but when you’re juggling multiple locations, every minute counts. Whether you’re shooting for a brand campaign on South Beach, running between Wynwood murals, or capturing candid moments in Coconut Grove, you’ve got to hustle smart—or risk losing that magic golden hour.
Start with Killer Pre-Production
Pre-pro is where you win or lose a multi-location shoot day. I learned this the hard way during my first big gig, zig-zagging from Brickell to Key Biscayne and hitting traffic that ate my daylight alive. Here’s how to keep the sun on your side:
- Scout Every Spot: Use apps like Sun Seeker or PhotoPills to check how light hits each location at different hours. Don’t just rely on Google Maps—visit in person or ask a local pro through OPAH.
- Map Your Route for the Light, Not Just Distance: Miami traffic is unpredictable, so plan your route based on both light patterns and real-time traffic data.
- Pad Your Schedule: Build in extra time for setup, parking (Miami can surprise you), and the inevitable cafecito stop.
- Permits & Permissions: Some public spaces require permits, and you’ll need them to avoid costly delays. Research ahead and keep digital copies handy.
Build a Flexible, Light-Savvy Call Sheet
On multi-location days, your call sheet isn’t just a schedule—it’s your blueprint for not losing daylight. Here’s my go-to structure:
- Golden Hour First or Last? Decide whether to use sunrise or sunset as your anchor. In Miami, sunrise on the beach is unbeatable, but sunset at a rooftop bar can be just as epic.
- Prioritize the Hardest Shots: Tackle the most complex setups when energy is high and the light is best. Save B-roll or easy transitions for midday, when the sun is harshest.
- Contact Info & Contingencies: Make sure every crew member has the full itinerary, contact list, and Plan B if a location falls through.
Travel Light—Literally and Figuratively
Hauling gear across Miami can kill both your timeline and your morale. I recommend:
- Essentials Only: Pack the must-haves and rent specialty gear near your locations if needed.
- Pre-Label Cases: Label cases by location or shot type so load-in/load-out is rapid-fire.
- Power Up: Bring extra batteries, power banks, and backup memory cards. You don’t want to hunt for outlets at a busy venue.
Leverage Your Team (and Network!)
Don’t try to do it all solo. Use platforms like OPAH to find local assistants, fixers, or runners who know the Miami terrain and can help you pivot fast if daylight starts slipping away.
Pro Tip: Embrace Miami’s Unpredictability
Weather can change in a heartbeat here. Always have a backup indoor or shaded location and a rain plan ready. Sometimes the most unexpected moments—like a sudden cloudburst or a burst of sunset after rain—make for the best shots.
Wrap Up and Review
After every multi-location day, do a quick debrief with your team. What worked? Where did you lose time? Take notes while it’s fresh, so your next shoot runs even smoother—and you keep that daylight working for you.
Miami’s a big city with a small-town creative spirit. With the right planning and a little local help, you can own every golden hour. Keep chasing the light—and if you want to stay booked with smarter shoots, check out www.opahnow.com for more pro tips and gigs.