We’ve all been there: You’ve landed that dream client, the shot list is stacked, and the creative calls for multiple Miami locations all in one ambitious day. The golden hour is ticking, and you’re balancing gear, talent, traffic, and the ever-fickle Floridian sun. But with the right planning, you can nail those shots without the stress (or racing against sunset). Here’s how I—and the pros on OPAH—approach multi-location shoot days to maximize every minute of Miami’s daylight.
Map It Out—Literally
Start with logistics. Drop every location pin into Google Maps or your favorite routing app. Calculate not just drive times, but also account for parking, unloading, and the inevitable Miami traffic snarl. I like to group locations by proximity, hitting the furthest or most challenging ones first while energy is high and the sun is generous.
Pro Tip:
- Use Google My Maps to create a custom route, sharing it with your crew and client. This keeps everyone on the same page, literally.
- Scout locations at the same time of day you’ll be shooting—light can be totally different in Wynwood at 9am versus South Beach at noon.
Build a Realistic (and Flexible) Timeline
For each location, estimate setup, shooting, and breakdown time. I always pad my timeline by 15–20%—because something always takes longer than planned. Share this schedule with your client and team upfront; transparency means fewer surprises when you’re chasing that last shot at 5:45pm.
Consider:
- Sunrise/sunset times: Use apps like Sun Seeker or PhotoPills to track golden hour and shadow movement.
- Permit requirements: Some public Miami spaces require advance notice—factor this into your prep.
- Breaks: Build in moments for hydration and regrouping, especially during Miami’s humid months.
Gear Up for Mobility
Pack smart. Pare down to the essentials—think modular lighting, compact modifiers, and lightweight tripods. Having a rolling case that fits the trunk and can be quickly loaded/unloaded is key. If your shoot spans from the sunlit streets of Brickell to the shade of Coconut Grove, bring at least one portable reflector or battery-powered strobe to compensate for shifting light conditions.
Communicate Like a Pro
Every successful shoot is a team sport. Touch base with your crew and talent before the day, sharing the route, time windows, and backup plans. On the day, keep everyone updated—text groups, walkie-talkies, or Slack channels can be a lifesaver if Miami’s cell coverage drops out. If you’re booking second shooters or assistants through OPAH StayBooked, make sure they have the schedule and are clear on their roles for each location.
Have a Plan B (and C)
Miami weather is gorgeous but unpredictable. Always scout a backup indoor or shaded spot near each location. I keep a shortlist of cafes, arcades, or breezy covered walkways where we can pivot if needed. Also, have a backup shot list in case you lose time to an unexpected delay.
Stay Energized, Stay Inspired
Multi-location days are marathons, not sprints. Bring snacks, water, and sunscreen. Keep morale high—good vibes are contagious and clients remember how you handled the hustle. At the end of the day, a well-executed plan means everyone leaves with great images and great memories.
Bonus: Want to stay booked with Miami’s top gigs and collaborate with other pros who know how to run a smooth shoot? Check out www.opahnow.com—your go-to source for connecting with the city’s best talent and client opportunities.
With these steps, you’ll turn multi-location chaos into a seamless, sunlit day—no matter how action-packed the shot list. Now go out there and own that Miami daylight!