Embracing the Unpredictability: Our Ongoing Journey as Shoot Location Hosts

Embarking on the adventure of hosting our homes as shoot locations has been a journey of unexpected twists and turns. We wouldn't liken it to a rollercoaster - there aren't dramatic highs and lows - but rather to navigating uncharted waters, where each project steers us towards different horizons with new challenges and rewards.

The Business Reality

This endeavour is undoubtedly a business. As we explain in Module 5 of The Course: Becoming a Shoot Location Host, listing your home and securing your first shoot signifies the launch of a new venture. However, it's an unpredictable one - which is why we often refer to it as a side hustle. It's not something that can be scheduled with absolute certainty; for most of us - ourselves included - the income serves as an exciting bonus rather than a fixed revenue stream.

Some homeowners do earn substantial amounts - £1,500 per day is not unusual, but given the nature of the industry, there's no one-size-fits-all property that guarantees success, and bookings can feel sporadic. Setting a personal goal, such as aiming for two shoots a month, provides direction. In the beginning, achieving this might feel like a mystery, but over time, learning to navigate the system becomes essential - and these lessons - what works, what doesn't, and how to fast-track success - are integral parts of The Course.

Understanding Your Unique Selling Points & Finding Your Niche

For those passionate about interior design and styling, hosting shoots isn't just about the money - it fuels creativity. It's important to understand what works for your particular home and, crucially, how to attract the right projects. Learning to align your property's unique selling points (USPs) with suitable production types makes a significant difference.

Many assume that film and TV are the primary opportunities, but in reality, photography is often the mainstay - personal branding shoots, editorial photography, and product campaigns. An unexpected bonus can be collaborating with major brands as an influencer. These opportunities may arise not because they are sought out, but because companies visit your home for shoots, meet you, and see that you can authentically showcase their products.

Suzie had personal experience with this, securing a year-long partnership with Hillarys (Blinds) which began this way - they were seeking interior enthusiasts for a unique campaign and had already booked her home for a separate project. You could call it a paid audition - not just for the house, but for the host as well.

Setting Goals While Embracing Surprises

Aiming for a specific number of shoots per month is manageable, provides a great income boost, and fits alongside other work. Starting with a base goal and remaining open to where it leads is advisable. Because honestly? You never know what's around the corner.

For example, slow periods during peak holiday times like August can be frustrating. Shoots might be scarce, leading to feelings of discouragement. However, knowing how to effectively promote your property and remaining persistent can lead to securing significant campaigns with major retailers - such as, in Louise's case just last year, five days of filming and a £10K payday!

This is why "rollercoaster" doesn't quite fit. It's more like sailing with the wind - thrilling, fast-moving, with significant highs and manageable quieter periods, but always steering towards exciting destinations. When the unpredictability works in your favour, the exhilaration is unparalleled.

Your Journey Begins Here

Want to experience it yourself? The hard work has been done, mistakes have been made, and lessons have been learned about what it takes to turn your home into a successful shoot location.

The Course: Becoming a Shoot Location Host (£349) is your shortcut to making this work for you - whether as a fun side hustle or the start of something bigger. It includes our exclusive 30 Day Challenge to kickstart your journey and put you on the path to success.

We're not just teaching theory - we're proof that this works. We've hosted countless shoots in our homes and gardens, built relationships with major brands, and created a system that works for all types of hosts.

📸 Ready to embark on this adventure? Visit The Shoot Academy today to learn more and transform your home into a sought-after shoot location!